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Building Lapstrake Canoes

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Though few are aware of it, lapstrake canoes predate the more familiar canvas-covered models by at least half a century. There is a considerable difference between the two types. These are particularly fine boats for cruising and general knocking about, because they have the maneuverability of a kayak and the stability of a double ender.

They are nearly as easy to handle ashore–a typical 13 footer weighs just 45 pounds, paddle and all. Building Lapstrake Canoes explains layout and construction for this easiest-to-build of all round bottom lapstrake boats. That's one reason why this book has been required reading for boatbuilding courses all across North America.

15'&13' lapstrake canoes

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Think of it...traditional boatbuilding–no glue 'n sticks, no stitch 'n glue, no fiberglass–and without the expense and bother of specialized tools. You can do it–hundreds before you already have.
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Anyone contemplating building a first lapstrake boat is understandably a bit apprehensive. The advantage of building a canoe first is that despite their small scantlings, lapstrake canoes are built just like larger boats. That means that you can become familiar with layout and construction techniques without having to invest is specialized tools. (We could have said that building one is a good way to get your feet wet, but that's not a phrase you're apt to hear from a boatbuilder.)

This book has proved itself invaluable even when lapstrake canoes are built using the glued lapstrake method, because such things as plank layout and fitting, are virtually identical. We would suggest, though, that if you are new to the glued lap process, that you take a good look at Glued Lap Construction. Not only does it address the subject specifically, it's the least expensive of our books–and if they are ordered at the same time, you'll save on shipping charges.

cover shot

This book begins with reading plans and making your own canoe half model. The model making part is optional, but helps you become familiar with the hull before you actually start putting things together. From there, it follows the building sequence on through making the moulds, planking, installing ribs and rails, making the double paddle, and even the finishing process.

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Building Lapstrake Canoes is required reading for boatbuilding courses from Maine to California, and a considerable number of first-time builders have used this book to guide them through building their very first boat. The information included is applicable to virtually any lapstrake canoe. Plans are not included.

When you're done building your canoe, you'll find out why so many before you have abandoned their canvas-covered models in favor of lapstrakes, and why so many have gone on to build more boats.

Building Lapstrake Canoes
121 pages, 58 illustrations, indexed
$25.00/copy (shipping weight 2 lbs.)


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For more information see our Lapstrake Canoes CD.

Nope, it's not at all the same as the Building Lapstrake Canoes book described above...what it is, is the latest in our Boatbuilding in Pictures Series, that follows the construction of a traditional 13-footer as well as a glued lapstrake 15-footer with a profusion of photos. Read all about it. (Use your "back" button to return to this page.)
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Lapstrake Canoe Building Plans....

13', 15', & 17' Lapstrake Canoes Our three canoes are each designed to fulfill a specific need. The 13 footer is a 45 pound solo model; the 15 footer in the photo is also a solo (though she can be modified to carry two) that weighs 55 pounds. Even our 17 foot tandem weighs only 65 pounds. The specifications they share are their cedar planking, plank keels, and particularly strong gunwales–not at all like a typical canoe. These are the easiest to build of all lapstrake boats, and are easily driven with their double paddles. Plans consist of three pages each: lines and offsets, construction details, and full sized sections. Cost is $35/set if purchased separately or $26.25/set if purchased with the book or by using the coupon afterwards. Also available is the complete lofting for the 15 footer–a real time saver if you want to get right to the building. For other plans consult the Duck Trap Woodworking plan page.
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Karen

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When you place a phone order, chances are that Karen will take your call...That's her in her 15' Lapstrake Canoe.
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If you prefer snail mail, our address is: Duck Trap Press
P.O. Box 88
Lincolnville Beach, Maine 04849-0088

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