My boats are based on methods that have been proven over thousands of years but using modern materials. Our frames are built fuselage style, much like airplane construction. The frames are marine plywood and the stringers are made from lightweight woods lashed together with artificial sinew. A synthetic fabric skin is sewn over the frame, shrunk, waterproofed and it becomes a structural member of the boat. This makes an extremely strong, durable and lightweight boat.

Contrary to their delicate looks, SOF boats are very tough and durable. I have run mine upon many rocks, across submerged logs, stumps and tree limbs and I have yet to make more than a small mark on the hull.

This video shows you just how tough they really are. It takes a lot more than hitting a rock, stick or some other object in the water!

I have been asked about a tandem canoe recently by a couple of people. So I started to think about designing one. My first step is to look in a folder I call the Sand Box. That is where I store files I am 'playing with'. When I was looking through some canoes I have played with in the past I was surprised to find this design. It was basically done and I simple loved the look of it.

NEW BOOK

In my book will walk you through the process of building your own skin on frame canoe or kayak. I start by addressing the space needed to build a boat and the few tool that are needed. Then I go into detail on laying out the frames from a table of offsets. I show you how to assemble the frame by lashing the members together rather than using epoxy, all about skinning the boat and the rest of the steps up to launching.

You can purchase and autographed copy in our store.