Easy Guide to Planking a Wooden Boat

Building a wooden boat is a wonderful adventure, and one of the most important steps is planking the boat. Planking means covering the boat’s frame with wooden boards (called planks) to keep the water out and make the boat strong. Here’s an easy guide to understanding the different types of planking, the tools you’ll need, and techniques you might use when building your own boat!

What is Planking?

Planking is when you attach long, flat pieces of wood to the boat’s skeleton (called the frame) to form the outer shell of the boat. The main job of these planks is to keep water out and make sure the boat floats.

Types of Planking

There are several types of planking that boat builders use, depending on the size and style of the boat. Here are the most common ones:

1. Carvel Planking

This type is often used on bigger boats like sailboats or schooners.

• The planks fit tightly edge-to-edge.
• Builders add caulking between the planks to make sure no water gets in.
• The boat gets a smooth finish, which looks neat and clean.

2. Lapstrake (or Clinker) Planking

Lapstrake planking is common in smaller boats, and the planks overlap each other.

• The overlapping planks make the boat lighter and easier to build.
• It’s a popular choice for beginners because it requires less sanding (called fairing).

3. Stitch-and-Glue Planking

This is a simple method often used by people building small boats at home.

• Builders cut panels and “stitch” them together with wire or zip ties.
• Glue holds everything in place, making the process quicker.

4. Strip Planking

This method uses thin, uniform planks that are glued together.

• It’s great for boats like kayaks and canoes because it creates a lightweight, strong hull.

Tools You’ll Need for Planking

To plank your boat, you’ll need some basic tools. Here are the must-haves:

• Jigsaw: Used for cutting planks to the right shape.
• Orbital Sander: Helps smooth the wood so the planks fit nicely together.
• Drill: You’ll need this to drill holes and attach parts securely.
• Clamps: These hold the planks in place while you work. Pipe clamps are a good option for longer planks.
• Hand Plane: Helps you shape the edges of the planks for a perfect fit.
• Measuring Tape and Compass: Essential for measuring and marking the planks accurately.

Pro Tip: You don’t need to break the bank. You can often find these tools used, which will save you money!

Techniques for Planking

Planking a boat takes some practice, but here are two important techniques you should know:

Spiling: Spiling helps you measure the curves of the boat so the planks fit perfectly.

• You use a batten (a flexible strip of wood) to trace the boat’s shape.
• The traced shape is transferred onto the plank, so you know exactly where to cut.

Gaining: When building a boat with lapstrake planking, you’ll need to reduce the plank’s thickness at the ends (near the bow and stern).

• This makes the planks fit together more smoothly and looks more professional.

Conclusion

Planking a wooden boat can seem challenging, but with patience, the right tools, and some basic techniques, anyone can do it! Whether you choose carvel, lapstrake, or another method, you’ll end up with a strong, beautiful boat that’s ready to sail.