Ever caught yourself staring at a canoe on the water, wishing you could say, "Yeah, I built that"? There's something deeply satisfying about heading out on a vessel shaped by your own hands—one that's lightweight, responsive, and tailored just right for the rivers or lakes you love.
Store-bought canoes work fine, but they often feel generic, heavy, or overpriced. Strip building lets you create a custom beauty using cedar strips and epoxy, resulting in a boat that's not only gorgeous with its bright-finished wood but also tough enough for real adventures. It's a project that saves money long-term while giving you skills for life—think repairs on the fly or even building kayaks next.
This second edition packs full-sized plans for eight proven designs, tucked in a pouch at the back. They're Gil Gilpatrick's own adaptations, tested on Maine's rugged Allagash River. Follow the clear, photo-packed steps to strip the hull, fit the forms, glass it over, and finish with seats and paddles. Over 100 photographs and illustrations make each stage crystal clear, from laying out strips to fairing the sheerline.
These aren't pie-in-the-sky designs; Gil's supervised over 500 builds and paddles his own yearly. You'll learn safe handling to avoid swamping, quick fixes for dings, and maintenance to keep your canoe gleaming season after season. Imagine launching on a misty morning trip, feeling the hull slice cleanly through current—stable for fishing, nimble for rapids.
Whether it's a garage weekend warrior project or a winter shop endeavor, this book turns 'someday' into 'this year.' Novices appreciate the hand-holding; pros pick up Gil's insider whys and efficiencies. Grab the plans, source your strips, and get building—your waterway awaits.
