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The journey ...

This web documentary records the process of designing and constructing a sea kayak using the wood strip method.



The design process and the selection of locally sourced materials has been informed by the intention of making a vessel that will possess a strong sense of place. It is intended that this kayak will engage meaningfully and harmoniously with the land and seascapes of Australia's east coast.



The principle materials of construction are Australian Red Cedar, Huon Pine, Spotted Gum, Humpback Whale bone, Sydney Turban shell, carbon fibre, kevlar and two pack resin.





The images and text below trace the journey ...











Tuesday, April 13, 2010

On this second model I've used a different setout arrangement for the hull strips as compared to the first model.
To give lineal emphasis to the hull's ridge line the central strips of Model 2 are arranged parallel to the kayak's long axis - unlike Model 1 where they had been arranged in a pattern of concentric arcs. The lineal arrangement offers a distinct constructional and structural advantage as these continuous ridge strips provide a neat and solid resolution to concluding all of the other strips along the hull's sides.
Additionally, these central strips can be specified as a timber of greater hardness than the Australian red cedar and huon pine used elswhere in the hull and deck. This will provide the hull with additional protection along the ridge line - this is benefitial to a kayak paddled along the abrasive coastlines of eastern Australia .