Centerboard case finished. Bolting frames. Sanding

Last steps before epoxy encapsulation.

I turned massive bolt heads into smaller diameter, to fit bungs for gunwale. There will be hardly any pull here, only sheer forces should I collide with anything hard. Smaller diameter heads will not compromise these joints and will be aesthetically more pleasing.

I drilled broadly to avoid splitting the plywood. Just in case each frame/bulkhead is clamped strongly so that the screw thread can carve the wood without risk of splitting it. Holes are first filled with unthickened epoxy and screws are degreased in acetone. I aim to make it a strong joint.

Bangs glued in and trimmed flush.

I trimmed centerboard case and sanded for epoxy coating. All sharp edges softened to small radius - will hold finish better and spare my legs when I unavoidably collide with them.

I felt frivolous so front and back edge of the case is trimmed with American walnut. The rest is mahogany.

I sanded all the interior, knocking down sharp radius on all parts. Vacuumed the boat so I can start with epoxy coating.

Next steps, after I coat the interior, will be filleting and painting the bilge and tanks. The rest will be kept bright. Fillets in the bilge are mostly for easier maintenance - preventing dirt and water from staying in tight spaces.

After the epoxy cures I will install quarter knees and fill tanks with foam. Deck and benches will come next - for them I plan to use Owatrol oil, for easier maintenance and satin feel. Same for thwarts which I will probably glue from Siberian larch or northern pine.

Lastly I will make mast partners - that will be oak. With that in place I can lift the boat onto trailer and start disassembling the shed - to make place for building the mast.