How to Build A Boat

So you have decided to build a boat!

Keeping in mind that it's a time consuming activity, the reasons you have taken this decision are important. For me, the cost of buying a ready-made boat is a big factor and also the satisfaction of creating something that is seaworthy.

So the first thing is deciding what kind of boat do you wish to build? 
Sailboat
Kayak
Canoe
Dinghy
Powerboat
Cutter

Depending on your choice you could get boat plans/designs from books in your local library or simply type “free boat plans” in Google and see the magic! The plans will guide you in the next step of material-gathering. The main parts of the boat along with the dimensions are clearly laid out (Be ready to understand some tough mathematics here, though).

The next step would be to gather the material that you are going to use in your boat. Fiberglass, foam core and plywood are the two main types of material that you could use for the hull construction. Other material would involve procuring epoxy, putties, glues and adhesives, primer and paint, abrasives, composite tools, electrical components and last but not the least, hardware.

Now hit the workshop and get ready to saw, plane, glue, drill, fasten and paint. If you've understood the plans well, this part will mainly require a lot of hard work and sweat. Start with the stem of the boat, add the bulkheads and then the sideboards. To add the floor, turn the boat upside down; glue and nail the bottom in place. Turn the boat over, fit in the seats/decks/house as per your plan. Paint the boat – don't forget to name her!

Take her for a ride.