How critical is it that the panels, side and bottom, align to form a smooth keel line at the bow while stitching. I have had to keep loosening the wires to realign the panels. Only to have is become misaligned as I progress towards the stern. I finally just untwisted all the wires along the entire boat and started over. But once again after I locked in the bow and started to retwist the wires it came out of alignment again. I have only gone a quarter of the way and so far the side panel is protruding about 1/8". It may get more pronounced as I proceed. Is this alignment critical at this point or will I be able to trim the bow later?
Hi Robert,
its always a bit tricky. can you remind me, is this a kit with pre-cut panels or are you building from plans?
if from pre-cut kit, there is very high fidelity of shape which makes this step a bit easier. if the panels are hand-cut, expect more slop. that said, only an 1/8 of an inch protrusion is pretty good. you can easily trim that out after the stitching if its still there.
one thing a lot of people do is stitch up the whole boat loosely and only initially tighten the bow (or stern) then go about tightening the rest of things up. if you have not watched the video on stitching: 04: The Stitching Part of Stitch and Glue Boatbuilding [video] – Chesapeake Light Craft i would go ahead and do that and follow their general guidance about not only stitching but ensuring alignment.
h
Howard,
Thanks again. I am building from a kit. I will check out the video. I may have already seen it but a review would be helpful. I redid the stitching and the bow panels stayed put this time. I am a bit more status field with the shape after redoing it. I just have the stern section to do but I find that area a little easier. I probably should have not redone it and just deal with the shape during the next step before winding as you , the manual, and the video suggests. I guess that is the beginner’s mindset at work.