A couple years ago, I became interested in designing a stitch and glue guideboat.
I had started a design like this some time ago but was never satisfied with the result. If I'm going to do it, I want to get as close as I can to an authentic guideboat.
When I started the guideboat project, I bought this book:
http://michneboat.com/Book%20Info.htm . I've kept in touch with the author, John Michne, and he even autographed my copy. It's a great read even if a guideboat isn't your cup of tea.
John gave me permission to use his book as a guide to design a S&G version of a guideboat. His book is based on the guideboat, built by Dwight Grant of Booneville, NY starting in 1905. This model was later named the "Virginia".
Anyway...
I'm about midway through drawing the guideboat on my computer and will use it to create a stitch and glue version. Guidboats are a very rounded hull. To duplicate the look and performance, multi chines will be needed.
For you potential builders who might want want to take on this project, how many hull panels would you like to see? I sketched an 8-panel (4 per side) version that looks respectable, but 10 would really do the job well.
Its my dim understanding that after 5 panels, a S&G build requires forms/molds/more than just wiring panels together w/ a few forms/bulkheads. If this's close to correct,seems there's not much difference between 8 and 10 panels, especially if 10 gives you the hull shape needed.
I'm encouraged that you've taken this project up again and am looking forwards to an early listing in your catalog.
