Overview of making a kayak

By Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 08/17/2019 - 16:13

I put together this 5 minute video to provide a broad overview of the strip-building process. My other videos go into a lot more detail, but if you want to see a quick synopsis of the whole project, this should help you out.

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Nick's Blog

Preview image for the video "How to Hand Cut Stitch and Glue Kayak Panels from Scratch".

How to Scarf Plywood and Cut Boat Panels Without a CNC Machine

Nick shows how to hand-cut stitch and glue plywood boat panels from scratch, an alternative to buying a pre-cut CNC kit. He covers scarfing shorter plywood pieces together using an 8:1 planed joint and thickened epoxy, then transfers full-size paper patterns onto the plywood using a pounce wheel and spray adhesive. After drilling stitch holes, he cuts the panels with a fine-toothed jigsaw blade and cleans the edges with a well-sharpened block plane.

Preview image for the video "8 Ways to Accurately Measure Epoxy - Complete Guide".

Epoxy Mixing Methods Every Builder Should Know

Accurate measurement and thorough mixing are crucial for successful epoxy use. Nick discusses the pros and cons of dispensing pumps, calibrated cups, kitchen scales and professional benchtop pump systems for measuring epoxy prior to mixing.

Preview image for the video "My Friend Banged Up My Kayak".

Fixing a strip built kayak

A friend accidentally damaged the exterior fiberglass of a Petrel Sport kayak while paddling along the Bold Coast of Maine. I repaired the damage by sanding, staining, and applying multiple layers of fiberglass and varnish, resulting in a repair that is barely noticeable.

Preview image for the video "Survival of the Wooden Canoe (Feature Documentary)".

Ted Moores and The Survival of the Wooden Canoe

Nobody has had more influence on the growth of wood strip canoes than Ted Moores of Bear Mountain Boats.

Preview image for the video "Learning from Mistakes: Kayak Building Challenges and Triumphs".

Overcoming Challenges in Kayak Building

Nick builds a commemorative kayak, demonstrating that craftsmanship is about balancing beauty, functionality, and personal meaning. Through careful wood selection, technical skill, and creative problem-solving, he creates a meaningful memorial for a client, emphasizing that perfection lies not in flawlessness, but in purpose and connection.

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Jun 26, 2026
The Best Wooden Boat Show on the East Coast, meet at the Chesapeake Light Craft Booth.
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Elements of Coastal Kayaking II @WoodenBoat School
Aug 30, 2026
Sea kayaking course covers strokes, braces, maneuvering, safety, navigation, and more. Students can bring their own kayaks or try Nick’s high-performance designs.
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