This course is for individuals with a strong interest in creating a seaworthy craft with their own hands. The Inuit kayak from Greenland is a fast and responsive vessel designed for hunting but just as suitable for today’s more common recreational purposes. Students will design their craft to fit their own body size. Begin by laying out and cutting mortises. Kerf together the compound miter at the gunwale ends, and lash the deck beams into place. Steam bend ribs and cockpit coaming, then lash the longitudinals into place. Sew a watertight seam along the entire length of the deck. Kayaks will be constructed of Eastern white pine, white cedar, white oak, and white ash, and covered with 9 oz. urethane-coated nylon for a bomb-proof skin. Kayak length may vary from 14' to 18' depending on your preference. Students are encouraged to bring a partner to assist them, for no additional tuition, as this course can be a great family project.

Phil and Brian have many years of experience teaching youth to build a variety of skin-on-frame boats for Urban Boatbuilders. They are excited to bring their considerable knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm for beginning and advanced boat builders to the North House workshop.

The instructors will consult with each student four weeks prior to the start of the course to discuss materials for the length of the intended boat to be built. Material costs may vary given market prices and will be determined four weeks out. In addition to the tuition fee, each student will be expected to reimburse an additional $700 (approximately) for materials directly to the instructor at the beginning of the course. Separate tuition payment and cancellation policies apply to this course.

You will need the following tools for this class:

cordless drill
assorted bits (1/4″ – 1/16″)
cross cut saw/Japanese or folding saw preferable
16′ tape measure
8 – 3″ “C” clamps
6 – 2″ spring clamps
carving knife (available for purchase @ North House School Store 888-387-9762)
pair of leather gloves forhand protection when lashing
several pencils
life vest or PFD

Feel free to bring your favorite tools and whatever materials you might feel appropriate for this course.
spoke shave
low angle block plane
(Above available @ North House School Store)
square
sliding T bevel
eye and ear protection as desired (available at our school store)
1/4" and 3/4" chisels
half round file or rasp