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    Gaff Rigged Pilot Cutter
    44 Posts · 35 Followers · 434 Photos · 482 Likes
    Began 3 years ago by
    Vice Admiral
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    Latest Post 2 years ago by
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    📝 Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 171 Views · 23 Likes · 25 Comments
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    At last, the day arrived! The weather this morning for the Buxton area looked to be ideal with 10mph winds forecast.

    I don't have access to a Transit van or similar 😊 so the boat has to be transported in bits and assembled at the lake side. It is a bit of a squeeze to fit it all into the car.

    The large, yellow sided case keeps the mast and sails safe during transit. It is a simple pair of wooden frames hinged together and covered with twinwall plastic sheeting which I just happened to have in the shed. Also in the car is a folding stand for use at the side of the lake, and a launch cradle made from copper pipe.

    At he lakeside, assembly involves fitting the keel, rudder, mast and sails. It takes around 15 minutes to complete - possibly less in future with a bit of practice.

    Once launched, she was away ⛵👍. The wind was a lot less than forecast, maybe 5mph with some gusts. She did struggle a bit on such a gentle breeze. When it did blow, she was fast and responsive, outrunning the video chase boat on occasions.

    She is named 'Ellen' after my grandmother. Oh, and the helmsman? The designer, Gary Webb (bearospaceindustries.com) has started a bit of tradition of having a bear as helmsman 😀

    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    1 year ago by 🇨🇦 Ronald ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 67 Views · 0 Likes
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    Gary, Shows how the bear is done on the YouTube video. Search for SailTails and the Bear. You can also email Gary @

    gringogary8@aol.com
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    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    1 year ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 93 Views · 1 Like
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    Hi Bob,

    I didn’t think it was worth the effort to animate the bear but In case you haven’t seen it, I have animated other figures:


    blogs/68795
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    1 year ago by 🇬🇧 bobonthelough ( Leading Seaman)
    ✧ 92 Views · 0 Likes
    Flag
    You can also fit a micro servo into the shoulders with a split servo cable to the rudder to control the head movement from the rudder channel. With regard to the flexible arm all that is needed is to attach the hand to the tiller with an
    empty sleeve. No one will notice.
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    1 year ago by 🇦🇺 peterd ( Warrant Officer)
    ✧ 123 Views · 0 Likes
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    Looks like a great job. He certainly gives good follow up via video and clear plans.

    When I received the plans I checked the draft and compared it to my IOM. A fraction longer which at the moment would be an issue where I live. People have dumped weed or grass into the waterway which grew to the extent that we cannot sail or put any watercraft in. Had to move to another location with shallower water. Wee Nip size.

    Regardless, am really looking forward to the build.
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 stevejf ( Recruit)
    ✧ 130 Views · 0 Likes
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    Thanks for the advise and the link Graham the photos of Tallulah will certainly help.

    Steve
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 134 Views · 4 Likes
    Flag
    Hi Steve,

    Glad you like the blog.👍 I also spent some time searching for photos of gaff rigged cutters on the internet. The ones I found most useful are of Tallulah by Luke Powell.


    https://www.sandemanyachtcompany.co.uk/yacht/535/TALLULAH
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 stevejf ( Recruit)
    ✧ 132 Views · 2 Likes
    Flag
    Hi Graham, fantastic boat. I was looking on the internet for some photos showing details of gaff rigged boats so I could incorporate some of the features into the boat that I'm building. I was very pleasantly surprised to find your build blog, not only because the details on your boat are exactly what I was looking for but but also because your boat is exactly the same as the one I'm building, Gary Webb's "Flyer". I hope you don't mind if I use some of your ideas. If mine turns out half as good as yours I'll be very pleased.
    Steve
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Nerys ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 157 Views · 1 Like
    Flag
    Graham, I've read somewhere of how he 'doctors' the bears to give them a flexible arm that is attached to the tiller and gives the impression that the bear is steering. I'm sure you could produce a flexible joint of some sort. I have a recollection that the bear moved with the tiller.

    Cheers, Nerys
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 162 Views · 5 Likes
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    Nerys,

    It’s not clear from the photos, but the bear does ‘steer’ the boat using the tiller - at least that’s how it looks from a distance.😉 😂😆

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 162 Views · 3 Likes
    Flag
    Thanks everyone for the positive feedback. I’m glad you enjoyed the blog, I certainly enjoyed the build, even if it did take a lot longer than I expected. I am pleased with the end result, although whatever I build, there are always things I think could be better. I expect I’ll tweak a few bits here and there and possibly make a smaller lighter keel for light winds.

    JB, it will be my favourite on windy days. The rowing boat is the favourite for windless days 😆.

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Nerys ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 158 Views · 4 Likes
    Flag
    The Bearospace man who designed your boat has, I believe had considerable experience in training his bears to sail his boats, particularly the schooners. They do a grand job of it. With your ability to build this boat, I see no reason why you could not train a bear to sail it. As a matter of interest, there used to be an organisation called, 'The Boating Bears Club', it was mainly canal based. Many of the bears had their own boats, usually purpose built dinghies. The lady who ran it was married to a gentleman who was chairman of the 'Odd Boat Society'. I am afraid I have not heard anything of either organisation for some years so I do not think they are still in existence.

    Cheers, Nerys
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    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇳🇿 jbkiwi ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 159 Views · 3 Likes
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    And you had doubts Graham😁, she looks absolutely perfect👍👍 love the sail 'bag' as well! New favourite model I'll bet,- ⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵ out of⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵

    JB
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇩🇪 RNinMunich ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 165 Views · 2 Likes
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    "He would have to duck every time the boom swung past"
    I have every faith in your ability to make him do that Graham 👍
    AND smoke a pipe at the same time 😉
    😎
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Martin555 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 164 Views · 2 Likes
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    Graham,
    I like many other members have followed your build log from the very start.
    And i have to say i have thoroughly enjoyed it.
    Normally i would just glance at a sail boat but now i find myself looking more in-depth at them with more of an understanding about them thanks to your log.

    I am just amazed at how you have turned bits of wood into such a fantastic sailboat.
    And to see her on the water is a real pleasure.
    I really wish i could actually see her in real life instead of in digital format.
    You are a very talented and skilful man.

    I bet you had the biggest buzz of your life when the wind started to fill the sails and she started to move.

    Also you have chose a beautiful name for a really beautiful boat.
    Well done you deserve to be extremely proud of this wonderful Boat.

    Martin555.
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 165 Views · 3 Likes
    Flag
    Doug,

    Thanks for the offer of a Pilot bear for the Cutter, but a little too big I'm afraid. He would have to duck everytime the boom swung past 😂🤣

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Newby7 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 164 Views · 3 Likes
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    Graham well done the boat looks great on the water.
    Rick
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Nerys ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 166 Views · 3 Likes
    Flag
    She really does look good on the water Graham, sailing beautifully. No need to ask how she responds to controls, one can see her pedigree from the pictures.

    Cheers, Nerys
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Rookysailor ( Commodore)
    ✧ 174 Views · 3 Likes
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    Quality ,quality, quality what more can one say, a beautiful boat, just wish I could build one the same.🤤

    Cheers, Pete
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇦🇺 stevedownunder ( Captain)
    ✧ 168 Views · 3 Likes
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    Hi Graham,

    She looks stunning on and off the water, also well thought out transport, assembly and launching gear. 👍

    Cheers,
    Stephen.
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 alan44 ( Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class)
    ✧ 174 Views · 4 Likes
    Flag
    Absolutely beautiful, a fantastic build, top quality everything!!!
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇩🇪 RNinMunich ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 171 Views · 3 Likes
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    Gob smackin' good Graham! 😋👍☀️☀️☀️
    BTW If you want a 'real' Pilot Bear for your Pilot Cutter 😁 I have one about the right size you can have if you wish. Complete with leather jacket, helmet, goggles and scarf.
    In a sitting position about 11cm from bum to helmet. See pic.
    Cheers, Doug 😎
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    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 robbob ( Admiral)
    ✧ 189 Views · 3 Likes
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    Congratulations on completing such a wonderful model Graham 😀👍
    She certainly looks beautiful on the water.

    It looks like you had a 'camera boat' following her so I'm looking forward to seeing some interesting video soon 📽 😉.
    Rob.
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 mturpin013 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 176 Views · 3 Likes
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    What a momentous day, she looks really wonderful on the water.
    Another great addition to the fleet.
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Colin H ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 169 Views · 3 Likes
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    Now she looks at home, a stunning little model with great presence on the water.
    You must be really chuffed with your efforts, be proud shipmate she's a fine model.
    Cheers Colin.
    💬 Re: Maiden voyage
    2 years ago by 🇺🇸 Black Shoe ( Midshipman)
    ✧ 180 Views · 3 Likes
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    Congratulations!
    Beautiful build and "Ellen" looks wonderful afloat!

    Well done!
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    📝 Fin and Keel
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 177 Views · 8 Likes · 12 Comments
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    Unlike traditional Pilot Cutters, this plan calls for the model to be fitted with a fin and weighted lead keel.

    I left this part of the build to the end for two reasons. I needed to know the weight of the model before the keel could be cast, and I didn't like the idea of messing about with 4+kgs of molten lead😮.

    The plans give a target weight for the completed model of 8.2kgs (18lbs) including a keel weighing 4.5kgs. With all the extra details I've added to the hull it has turned out heavier than the design weight (No surprise there then 😉) so to keep the total weight of the model on target, the keel weight needed to be reduced to 4kgs. To compensate for the lighter keel, I decided to extend the fin length by 50mm.

    The fin is made from 3mm aluminium sheet. This was cut out using a jigsaw fitted with a metal cutting blade. The large hole at the top of the fin reduces the weight a little, and provides a convenient hand hold. The three holes at the bottom are to provide a key for the lead keel.

    A wooden mold was made from scrap timber and the fin clamped in place. 4.5kgs of lead was melted and poured in - very carefully! Once cooled, the mold was removed and the keel was then shaped using a 'surform' tool bringing the completed weight of the keel down to 4ks.

    Thin balsa sheet was glued to both sides of the fin with contact adhesive and then sanded to give a streamlined cross section to the fin. The completed fin slides into the keel box below the hull and is held in place with two steel cross pins fitted through one of the deck hatches.

    The completed assembly was finished with two part epoxy, glass cloth, and several coats of navy blue paint from a rattle can.

    💬 Re: Fin and Keel
    2 years ago by 🇳🇿 jbkiwi ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 168 Views · 0 Likes
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    Hi Graham, I was guessing around 12", 12lbs should be cyclone proof😁

    JB
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    💬 Re: Fin and Keel
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 hammer ( Lieutenant)
    ✧ 183 Views · 3 Likes
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    Well if the plan shows a fin & weight. That’s that I always draw my own plans so I do what I want😀. I have found the biggest problem, for good sailing is the size of the rudder. I cheat with my schooners. Photo tells all. In first photo the square is the hatch to stop model rolling upright.
    💬 Re: Fin and Keel
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Nerys ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 171 Views · 3 Likes
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    Very impressed by the way you have made the bulb and fin keel, just like the rest of the build, excellent. Wish I could even approach your standards of build.

    Nerys
    💬 Re: Fin and Keel
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 172 Views · 3 Likes
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    Hi JB,

    I've just measured the fin length. It's effectively 16" so the torque will be closer to 12 ft lbs.

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Fin and Keel
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 mturpin013 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 176 Views · 2 Likes
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    Its getting closer!
    💬 Re: Fin and Keel
    2 years ago by 🇳🇿 jbkiwi ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 170 Views · 2 Likes
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    Turned out well Graham, good that it's removable for any adjustment. Does that equate roughly to 9 ft lbs of torque?😁

    JB
    💬 Re: Fin and Keel
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 174 Views · 4 Likes
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    Martin,

    It is a shame it needs a keel but it should make it stable. It would need a lot more weight in the hull to achieve the same stability, but then it would be too low in the water. The keel is easily removable, so I will be able to experiment with alternative shorter fins/lighter keels if the initial trials show that could be a viable option.

    I painted the fin dark blue so that it wouldn’t be obvious under water - and I had plenty left over after painting the gunwales 😀

    Weight training today 😂🤣

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Fin and Keel
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 174 Views · 2 Likes
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    Phil,

    You should have just enough time to get your camera batteries charged 🤞. I have to work out how to load it into the car🙄

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Fin and Keel
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Martin555 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 174 Views · 2 Likes
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    Hi Graham,

    It is a shame a fin keel had to be made for this fantastic boat.
    Still when she is in the water we won't see it.

    So the next job to do before her Maiden Voyage is a bit of Body Building and Weight Training LOL!!

    Like the rest of the members I too am looking foreword to seeing her in the water.

    Martin555.
    💬 Re: Fin and Keel
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 philcaretaker ( Captain)
    ✧ 182 Views · 3 Likes
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    I am getting very excited Graham in anticipation of the "Maiden Voyage" !!!!😁😁😁
    💬 Re: Fin and Keel
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 hammer ( Lieutenant)
    ✧ 187 Views · 3 Likes
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    Oh dear very sad. None of my sailing models have false fins. They sail very well with internal ballast. Just reduce sail to fit weather. I will admit to needing a false keel one of my paddle steamers. 5” long sailing on 1.5 draft with a 5lb steam plant. Sorry 😆
    💬 Re: Fin and Keel
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Newby7 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 176 Views · 2 Likes
    Flag
    That looks great Graham. Nice bit of engineering .
    Rick
    📝 RC installation
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 185 Views · 8 Likes · 4 Comments
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    💬 Add Comment
    There is a rudder servo and two winches to control the sails.

    The sheet to control the main sail is routed from one of the winches through a fairlead in the deck just behind the mast. It then passes through two blocks attached to the boom and terminates on a traveller just abaft the main cabin.

    The three fore sails each have two sheets attached. One sheet from each sail runs down the port side of the deck, through a fairlead in the deck and is then tied off on a loop driven by the second winch. The three remaining sheets from these sails are routed in the same way, but along the starboard side of the deck. These are tied off on the other side of the loop below deck. Running this winch from one end to the other tacks the foresails by pulling the sheets in on one side and letting them out on the other.

    The plans suggest that the fore sail winch is controlled from a rotary knob on the transmitter so that the sails can be tacked. I have put together a custom electronic mixer that has two operating states. In one state, it allows direct control of the winch from a rotary knob on the transmitter as suggested in the plans. In the other operating state, the fore sheet winch is controlled in tandem with the main sheet winch from the same stick on the transmitter. A switched channel on the Tx reverses and offsets the signal to the winch thus tacking the fore sails at the flick of a switch! It will be interesting to see if this works as intended.

    The electronics is installed in two wooden boxes which slide into runners below the deck. The construction and mounting of these was shown earlier in this blog. I've used magnetic reed switches to turn the power on/off as in my other models. This allows the power to be turned on and off using a magnet above the deck and avoids the need to find somewhere to hide a toggle switch.

    💬 Re: RC installation
    2 years ago by 🇿🇦 redpmg ( Commodore)
    ✧ 179 Views · 3 Likes
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    Great build Graham - the detail is tremendous and puts most of us to shame.

    Envy your electronics capability - mine usually ends with the smell of burning plastic from the wiring...........
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    💬 Re: RC installation
    2 years ago by 🇳🇿 jbkiwi ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 178 Views · 1 Like
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    Nice tidy set-up Graham, should work nicely.

    JB
    💬 Re: RC installation
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Nerys ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 184 Views · 3 Likes
    Flag
    The mainsheet seems very practical for a boomed mainsail and should work well, the sheeting for the foresails is clever and I'll be very interested to see how it pans out. Hopefully they will all work off the one control. The electrical installation is very neat, like everything else you do.

    Cheers, Nerys
    💬 Re: RC installation
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Colin H ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 183 Views · 2 Likes
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    That's a very neat layout, I'm impressed with the simplicity of your system.
    I'm looking forward to seeing it on the water.
    Cheers Colin.
    📝 Rigging the Sails
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 187 Views · 10 Likes · 12 Comments
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    💬 Add Comment
    After a week of threading, knotting, whipping and a bit of cursing I've managed to rig all the sails.

    The rigging cord is 1mm diameter, 12 strand braided 'Dynema'. This is very strong, and doesn't stretch. The loops at the ends of the lines are glued with CA and then whipped with cotton thread which is also secured with CA. I hope this will be sufficiently secure. The pins in the shackles and blocks are screwed in and then seized with a fine stainless wire so that they will not come apart on the lake.

    Instead of tying off the downhauls on the belaying pins on the Fife rail I have chosen to loop them round the belaying pins and use a bowsie to tension the lines. This is to speed up rigging of the sails at the lake side. The last photo shows one of the bowsies, disguised as a block. Thanks to 'hammer' for this suggestion.

    💬 Re: Rigging the Sails
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 mturpin013 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 189 Views · 1 Like
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    A slight delay on comments due to holidays, but that's a fine piece of modelling and one to be proud of, we look forward to launch day.
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    💬 Re: Rigging the Sails
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 185 Views · 2 Likes
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    JB,

    Still have to make the fin/keel so that it will stay upright, but shouldn't be long now to the maiden voyage.

    Bill and Ben don't go out when it's windy as they find rowing hard work in a wind. So they won't be missing out too much. It is going to be one or the other depending on the forecast. In any case I won't be able to take both models to the lake at the same time as they won't fit in the car together. In fact, I'm a bit concerned about fitting this one in the car by itself🤔. Time will tell.

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Rigging the Sails
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 185 Views · 1 Like
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    Thanks Colin, I hope you are right!

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Rigging the Sails
    2 years ago by 🇳🇿 jbkiwi ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 184 Views · 4 Likes
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    That looks absolutely brilliant Graham. The sails look spot on for colour and the sewing, sheet and rigging work looks immaculate. Can't be too long till launching now ? Bill and Ben are going to be jealous😁

    JB
    💬 Re: Rigging the Sails
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Colin H ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 185 Views · 3 Likes
    Flag
    That's a very realistic outlook the youngster has. But he was only stating facts without any prejudice.
    I agree it is a beautiful boat and I'm sure you'll be a fine master, so shouldn't sink.
    Happy sailing, cheers Colin.
    💬 Re: Rigging the Sails
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Newby7 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 186 Views · 1 Like
    Flag
    That's for sure on the sinking.
    Rick
    💬 Re: Rigging the Sails
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 187 Views · 3 Likes
    Flag
    Thanks everyone for the kind comments and the ‘likes’.

    My 9 year old grandson visited this week, first time we have seen him in over a year. He made two comments: “It looks very realistic” which was nice 👍, and “It might sink” 😭☹️. I hope he’s wrong with that one 😆

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Rigging the Sails
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 hammer ( Lieutenant)
    ✧ 198 Views · 2 Likes
    Flag
    Brilliant that’s all👍
    💬 Re: Rigging the Sails
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Martin555 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 184 Views · 3 Likes
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    Wow What a beauty Graham.
    That is the best sail boat i have ever had the privilege to cast my eyes on.
    All the time you have spent working on her has definitely paid off.
    I hope you plan on getting Phil to shoot some good video of her made voyage.

    I can't wait to see her on the water.

    Martin555.
    💬 Re: Rigging the Sails
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Nerys ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 187 Views · 2 Likes
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    Very impressive Graham, I wish my poor old arthritic and feelingless fingers could do things like that.

    Nerys
    💬 Re: Rigging the Sails
    2 years ago by 🇦🇺 stevedownunder ( Captain)
    ✧ 185 Views · 1 Like
    Flag
    Splendid work Graham,

    Good to hear there was no lashing going on...

    Cheers,
    Stephen.
    💬 Re: Rigging the Sails
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Newby7 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 186 Views · 3 Likes
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    Well done with the rigging and only a little cursing to get it done.
    Rick
    📝 Standing Rigging
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 193 Views · 11 Likes · 14 Comments
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    💬 Add Comment
    Having made all the bits and pieces needed for the rigging, it's time to replace the temporary blue string with something more appropriate.

    I read somewhere that plastic coated fishing trace line can be used for the shrouds that support the mast. Photos 1 and 2 show the shrouds and bowsprit stays I made using this trace line. It just didn't look right, so I replaced these with twisted nylon cord which I think looks much better.

    The lower end of each shroud is formed into a loop which fits round a deadeye. The lanyards which connect the pairs of deadeyes together are elastic cord which ensures that the shrouds are kept taught. Each lower deadeye is attached to the chainplate using an 'R' clip which makes it relatively easy to de-rig the shrouds and remove the mast.

    A forestay runs from the mast to the stem where it is also attached using an 'R' clip.

    The bowsprit rigging comprises a chain bobstay fitted between the stem and the cranse iron at the end of the bowsprit together with two stays, one fitted on either side. The chain was made in the same way as described for the anchor chain in an earlier post. A pair of blocks form a tackle which allows the chain to be tensioned.

    The lateral stays are made from the same nylon cord as used for the mast shrouds. Each stay has a tackle to tension it.

    💬 Re: Standing Rigging
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 191 Views · 3 Likes
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    Thanks everyone for the positive comments on the rigging so far 👍. There will have to be some compromises with the running rigging to speed up the task of assembling the model at the lakeside where it won't be a realistic option to be fiddling with shackles and pins. It is bad enough having to find dropped pins on the workshop floor 😠

    Graham93
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    💬 Re: Standing Rigging
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 191 Views · 1 Like
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    Thanks for the suggestion Gary. That's certainly a valid alternative for attaching the shrouds to the mast. I chose to do it with the shrouds looped round the mast over wooden cheeks as that is how it is shown on the plan.

    A bit of research in 'Gaff Rigging' by John Leather came up with " In traditional rigged craft, the shrouds are looped over the masthead and rest on wood bolsters set on wooded hounds cheeks... Alternatively, a mastband fitting can be made with eyes to which the shrouds are shackled." So both approaches are valid.

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Standing Rigging
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Nerys ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 189 Views · 3 Likes
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    I think this is the most realistic and accurate rigging in every way I have ever seen in a model, everything is exactly what I would expect in the real thing. Well done Graham.

    Cheers, Nerys
    💬 Re: Standing Rigging
    2 years ago by 🇳🇿 jbkiwi ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 189 Views · 4 Likes
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    Thought you'd been a bit quiet lately Graham😁, now we know why, -more fancy bits! Excellent realistic looking fittings, and the rigging looks the part with the black cord👍👍

    JB
    💬 Re: Standing Rigging
    2 years ago by 🇦🇺 stevedownunder ( Captain)
    ✧ 190 Views · 2 Likes
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    Hi Graham,

    Stunning workmanship.

    Looking forward to some on the water shots when that happens.

    Cheers,
    Stephen.
    💬 Re: Standing Rigging
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 GaryLC ( Lieutenant Commander)
    ✧ 196 Views · 3 Likes
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    I absolutely love this boat Graham, and the fine detail on the fittings and fitments is mind-blowing. Just one thing which I find a little strange as I am quite into the rigging on older boats, and that is the rigging for the main mast with the two sets of deadeyes at the bottom, at the top end of the same would look much better if instead of being looped around the mast, it was terminated at an eyelet on a brass ring, one eyelet each side. As I appreciate you are into brass fittings and gaff jaws not forgetting the hardwood blocks and tackle. Regards, Gary.
    💬 Re: Standing Rigging
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 193 Views · 3 Likes
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    Hammer,

    “When the great day comes I hope she sails as good as she looks”

    So do I, so do I. It’s been a long build. I’ve enjoyed it, but it will be really disappointing if it doesn’t perform on the lake. I don’t need a static model cluttering up the workshop.

    I keep thinking there’s not much more to do, but I keep finding things I haven’t done yet.😔

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Standing Rigging
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Newby7 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 193 Views · 2 Likes
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    Great job .Looks to be full speed ahead. Hope you get fair winds for your first sail.
    Rick
    💬 Re: Standing Rigging
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Martin555 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 193 Views · 1 Like
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    Thank's Graham,
    I really like this boat.
    You have done a fantastic job so far keep it up.

    Martin555.
    💬 Re: Standing Rigging
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 mturpin013 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 194 Views · 2 Likes
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    fine work as usual, I bet you can't wait for the maiden voyage.
    We can't
    💬 Re: Standing Rigging
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 193 Views · 4 Likes
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    Hi Martin,

    The mast is quite substantial. I don’t think it will bend. If there is a strong gust it will heel the boat and spill the wind from the sails. At least that’s how I hope it will work. All this is new to me as well 🙄.

    The elastic works well to self tension the shrouds when rigging/ derigging the mast. If it proves to be a problem, I can replace it with regular cord, but then it will be more difficult to maintain tension.

    Graham93
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    💬 Re: Standing Rigging
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 hammer ( Lieutenant)
    ✧ 205 Views · 2 Likes
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    The stress on a scale model are nowhere near those on original. The scale effect working for us for a change
    💬 Re: Standing Rigging
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 hammer ( Lieutenant)
    ✧ 203 Views · 3 Likes
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    When the great day comes I hope she sails as good as she looks. Well done Graham 👍
    💬 Re: Standing Rigging
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Martin555 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 192 Views · 2 Likes
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    Excellent work Graham.
    As you know i know very little about sail boats.
    However i have a question.

    You have elastic cord in-between the two deadeyes.
    What keeps the tension to stop the mast from bending ?

    Martin555.
    📝 Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 198 Views · 12 Likes · 25 Comments
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    Time to make the sails! This is my first attempt at making cotton sails.

    Full sized paper templates were made using the sail dimensions provided on the plan. These were used to mark out the outline of each sail on an old polycotton sheet by drawing round the templates onto the sheet with a pencil. For each sail, care was taken to ensure that the warp of the cloth was aligned with the leech of the sail. A 12mm wide strip of hardboard was then used as a guide to draw an additional line around each sail providing a 12mm hem allowance. The sails were cut from the sheet, together with triangular reinforcing pieces for each corner on each sail.

    My wife was volunteered to machine sew the hems and reinforcing pieces 😉❤️. The sails were then returned to me for the rest of the sewing🙄. A bolt rope was hand sewn around each sail. The rope is sewn along each edge of the sail, except the leech. It is sewn onto the Port side of the sail. I don't know why it should be on the Port side, but I understand is the convention. Can anyone enlighten me as to why?

    Grommets were formed at the corners of each sail by sewing in a copper ring.

    The hand sewing for each sail took 4-5 hours 😮

    Once completed, each sail was fitted to the Cutter using temporary rigging. This was to ensure that the sails were the right size and shape. At this point, the main sail had to be remade as, despite it being cut out to the right size and shape using the paper template, it had somehow 'grown' to a size which meant it just didn't fit once finished 😭 The second attempt fits OK.

    Finally lines were drawn onto the sails to represent the seams that would be present on full sized sails and the sails were stained using tea and waterproofed using a mix of beeswax and linseed oil. The last photo shows the 'before and after' effect of the staining and waterproofing.

    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇩🇪 RNinMunich ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 191 Views · 1 Like
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    Ecky thump! Typical Yorkshire man! (Even if he's emigrated to Cheshire!)
    50% FREE! 🤑
    'Well I'll go t' foot a my stairs!' 😁😂
    😎
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    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 194 Views · 3 Likes
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    Doug,

    Nowt wrong with Yorkshire tea 😀
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇩🇪 RNinMunich ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 191 Views · 1 Like
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    "The sails look to be done to a tee."
    Do you play golf with tea bags in your neck o the woods Rick? 😮😆
    Must be difficult to judge the flight path; slice or 'in the botanic! 😁
    😎
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇩🇪 RNinMunich ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 191 Views · 2 Likes
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    Since when has tea been grown in Yorkshire Graham?
    Eee baih gumm, musta bin Tetleys! 😋😉
    Coz 'Tetleys make tea bags make tea!'
    Good brew!
    😎
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 194 Views · 2 Likes
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    😂🤣
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Newby7 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 192 Views · 3 Likes
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    The sails look to be done to a tee.
    Rick
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 194 Views · 2 Likes
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    Michael, Doug,

    You are both wrong! It was Yorkshire tea😆

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇩🇪 RNinMunich ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 192 Views · 1 Like
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    Deffo Twining Darjeeling by the look of it Mike 😋😁
    Earl Grey would have been exactly that!
    😎
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 mturpin013 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 198 Views · 2 Likes
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    A great job Graham, your making me feel as if I should be doing something with sails.
    By the way was it PG or Typhoo !
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 hammer ( Lieutenant)
    ✧ 205 Views · 1 Like
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    In practice when sailing I found it very rare to have full rig set. Most sailing done with main & stay only. I also have a storm stay used with main reffed.
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 194 Views · 2 Likes
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    Hi Nerys,

    Thank you for the 'criticism' which I don't take as a criticism, your input is most valuable and welcome. I can see what you mean when I look at it again. The jib stay is attached to the bowsprit traveller so can easily be brought inboard to reduce the overhang of the jib topsail. The rigging of the jib topsail is also a bit loose in the photo causing it to sag a little increasing the overhang. I'll see how it looks once I have it rigged properly. If all else fails, I can always make a smaller replacement jib topsail (more sore fingers!).

    The sails are made to the dimensions shown on the plan, but the overhang is bigger than it looks on the plan which I don't understand.

    Please don't hold back with your helpful comments.

    Graham93
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    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 194 Views · 1 Like
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    Thanks Hammer,

    I knew there had to be a reason for the rope being on the Port side, Now I know 👍

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Nerys ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 194 Views · 2 Likes
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    Jacko, On your picture of a Thames Barge, there is no overlap of jib topsail over jib. The aperture between the stays for the jib topsail and the jib is filled but there is no overlap. A jib topsail as big as that would be one specially intended for a racing barge and not used in normal working conditions. There is a little overlap of the foot of the topsail over the mainsail which was normal in a barge, but as these sails worked in unison that did not matter. Too much overlap on sails before the mast, let's call them headsails would prevent them being able to be brought round onto the leeward side when tacking. A little overlap on headsails is a good thing, but too much makes for very difficult handling, especially with a small crew which working vessels tended to have, "a man and a boy", how often have we heard that quoted. In Thames Barges a jib topsail would rarely be carried unless she was racing.

    Nerys
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 jacko ( Lieutenant Commander)
    ✧ 198 Views · 1 Like
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    on the Thames barge there is over lap on the jib top sail
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Nerys ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 194 Views · 2 Likes
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    Graham, What a superb job you and your wife have made of the sails. The way you have put the eyes in the corners and the strengthening pieces looks most professional and could easily be sails for a full size boat. I do have one criticism though, hope you don't mind me telling you, but there is far too much overhang of the jib topsail to the jib, The sail as it is would not fill and would be very difficult to bring over when tacking. The tack needs to go further out along the bowsprit and perhaps the jib stay could come inboard a bit. I hate criticising what all round is a wonderful model, but I think she would sail better if you could alter the jib topsail.

    Cheers, Nerys
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Ronald ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 198 Views · 2 Likes
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    Super work your wife has done for you, the stitching around the grommets and all around. Hats off!
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 hammer ( Lieutenant)
    ✧ 208 Views · 4 Likes
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    Bolt rope on port side always. This helps orientation by feel in the dark.
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇳🇿 jbkiwi ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 198 Views · 3 Likes
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    Don't encourage him Doug, it'll never get launched😁

    JB
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇩🇪 RNinMunich ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 196 Views · 2 Likes
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    Brilliant stuff Graham👍
    Most educational.
    'Never mind the quality - Feel the width!' 😁
    The Grommets look great, but where are the Wallaces?😂
    Not so sure about the leeches though!
    Orrible things. Ugh!😝
    Like the "'before and after' effect of the staining".
    What's next I wonder? Stained glass in the portholes? 😉
    😎
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 198 Views · 3 Likes
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    Hi Martin,

    Haven’t had her assembled with the stained sails yet. That will have to wait until I have all the proper rigging in place.

    The mast is 48” if that helps you gauge the scale better

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 198 Views · 4 Likes
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    Hi JB,

    The eyes (grommets) were hand sewn and I have the scars in my fingertips to prove it 😆.

    As for making suits, that’s definitely not one for me. ( I did however get married in a suit made by my fiancé ! 👍)

    Graham93
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    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 philcaretaker ( Captain)
    ✧ 199 Views · 3 Likes
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    She`s looking great Graham, I wait with baited breath and fully charged Gopro on the camera boat ! 👍😋🙄⛵
    Phil
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Martin555 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 202 Views · 2 Likes
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    Hi Graham,
    Looking at the photo of her with the white sails she looks very nice and i bet she looks even better with the stained sails.
    As for the needle work your wife has done a great job.
    And your needle work is not to shabby ether.
    It is still difficult to gauge the scale of this beauty.
    Awesome work.

    Martin555.
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇳🇿 jbkiwi ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 199 Views · 4 Likes
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    Nice bit of sewing there Graham, you'll be making your own suits next😁 Looking really smart in its' new clothes. Were the eyes hand done or machine ? very tidy !

    JB
    💬 Re: Sail making
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Newby7 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 197 Views · 2 Likes
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    I know for a fact it would not of been me doing the sails. Well done Graham, great job.
    Rick
    📝 Mast hoops
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 203 Views · 8 Likes · 10 Comments
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    On full sized Cutters, the luff of the mainsail is often held to the mast with wooden hoops (Photo 1). These hoops are made from steamed elm, ash or oak. I had some ash veneer available so decided to use this to laminate the hoops.

    A wooden mandrel was turned to the required inner diameter of the hoops - approximately 20mm for the 16mm diameter mast. A strip of ash veneer was then dampened and wound round the mandrel and left to dry. Once dry, it was removed, coated with glue, rewound onto the mandrel, taped into position and left to dry again.

    Removing the completed wooden tube from the mandrel was difficult despite having wound the glued veneer over a layer of paper to prevent it sticking to the mandrel. In the end, I had to drill out the centre of the mandrel to get the tube off.

    The wooden tube was then cut to form 6 hoops. Brass pins were added primarily for visual effect, but also to ensure that the laminations will not come apart.

    💬 Re: Mast hoops
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 202 Views · 3 Likes
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    Martin, JB,

    Sorry to disappoint but there won’t be any automated hoisting or dropping of sails. I have plenty to keep me busy, there are lots of jobs to do round the house and garden which seem to have been neglected in recent months. 🤔

    As for Bill and Ben’s relatives, still looking for one of them to volunteer 😂🤣

    Graham93
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    💬 Re: Mast hoops
    2 years ago by 🇳🇿 jbkiwi ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 204 Views · 2 Likes
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    We have to keep him busy Martin😂 now you've probably given him another idea😁

    JB
    💬 Re: Mast hoops
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Martin555 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 204 Views · 3 Likes
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    Be careful with the ideas JB as knowing Graham he is likely to have Bill and Ben's relatives setting the sails LOL!!

    Martin555.
    💬 Re: Mast hoops
    2 years ago by 🇳🇿 jbkiwi ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 204 Views · 3 Likes
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    Can't help yourself, can you Graham,?😁 lovely job, will certainly make dropping the sail easy, -might even be able to r/c it if its smooth enough! (sorry can't help myself😁)

    JB
    💬 Re: Mast hoops
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 202 Views · 4 Likes
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    Thanks everyone for the kind comments and feedback.

    Michael, I’ll have to investigate my wife’s baking cupboard 😁

    Black shoe, I did make a spare hoop but I haven’t fitted it. I have taken care to ensure I can dismantle the fittings on the mast, so if/when I next do that I’ll fit the spare. That way it won’t get lost in the workshop.

    Martin/Rick, glad you’re enjoying the build.

    Doug, it’s a long time since I last had a game of chess, and even longer since I tried rug making. However, I am going to take up sailmaking next 😉

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Mast hoops
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 mturpin013 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 205 Views · 3 Likes
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    Hi Graham, you've been busy again and with a great result. I can help with the sticking tube on the mandrel, instead of using paper you should use the silicon baking sheets (available from Lakeland), I use it all the time to ensure glue doesn't stick where I don't want it. I haven't come across a glue that sticks to it yet epoxy wood glue just doesn't stick,
    It comes in a large sheet and I just cut it up as required
    💬 Re: Mast hoops
    2 years ago by 🇺🇸 Black Shoe ( Midshipman)
    ✧ 213 Views · 3 Likes
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    Another method I've used is to plane down an ash board to the thickness of the height of the proposed mast hoop then using a hand plane cutting (shaving) strips off of the edge. These strips come off with a natural curl and can be installed on the mast then glued.
    The prototype would add one extra hoop as a spare in the event one gets broken.

    I'm thoroughly enjoying this build Graham!
    💬 Re: Mast hoops
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Martin555 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 205 Views · 2 Likes
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    Great work I really love this build Graham.
    I am learning more and more about this sailing boat.
    So whoever said "you can't teach an old dog new tricks"
    Needs to look at your build and then maybe he will re-word his quote.LOL!!

    RE :- over a layer of paper to prevent it sticking to the mandrel
    You could of used cling film or a bit of a polythene bag around the mandrel.

    Martin555.
    💬 Re: Mast hoops
    2 years ago by 🇩🇪 RNinMunich ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 203 Views · 3 Likes
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    😮
    I think I'd better take up rug making, or maybe return to chess 🤔
    Too old for cricket now I'm afraid 😭
    😎
    💬 Re: Mast hoops
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Newby7 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 204 Views · 2 Likes
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    Graham looks like it was a long process but a great result.
    Rick
    📝 Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 214 Views · 10 Likes · 29 Comments
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    Attaching the blocks and other rigging to the hull requires a number of shackles. These were made from 3mm dia brass rod. Lengths of rod were turned on the lathe to reduce the center section to 1.7 mm. These pieces were then annealed and forged to flatten the ends. This annealing and forging process was repeated until the ends were the same 1.7mm thickness as the center section.

    The forged pieces were then annealed again and then bent around a steel rod to form a 'U' shape. Once the forming was complete the shackles were cleaned up with files and emery paper. The two flattened ends were then drilled for the cross pin. One end was drilled with a 1.6mm clearance hole and the other end was drilled and tapped 12BA.

    The cross pins were turned from the same 3mm dia brass bar. One end is threaded 12BA and the other end is filed flat and cross drilled for a securing wire to prevent the pin becoming loose.

    I needed to make quite a few of these, so have been making them in my 'spare time' over recent weeks. 😀

    (The blue cord in some of the photos is temporary and not what will be used for the rigging)

    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 hammer ( Lieutenant)
    ✧ 216 Views · 1 Like
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    Happy you like that Graham. Sails next yes. Not teaching you to suck eggs but this is my way. I use ticking cotton made for pillows tightly woven. Turning the edge on small models is tricky. Scale about 1/8” I brush P.V.A on that wide, turn over & iron. I do have my own must not upset Boss. Then stitch on bolt rope. To represent the join in cloth mark with pencil. Tape to window can see to mark other side. On my cutters scale I cut 1/4” strips sowing them on buy machine. My own again. The eye is brass tube super glued. Should be stitched but I am lazy.
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    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 205 Views · 1 Like
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    Thanks Hammer,

    I like that idea. I’m thinking about how to rig the Cutter quickly at the lakeside and your ‘block bowsie’ might come in very useful 👍

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 hammer ( Lieutenant)
    ✧ 216 Views · 2 Likes
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    Blocks. You are sticking how it should be. Brilliantly engineered & wood working. I have been imposing on your blog sorry but I am doing it again.
    I used to sail my cutters in all weathers so compromise has been made. This is one in the photo a bowsie or adjuster or tensioner whatever it’s called. Pretending to be a block , found in strange places on my models. Makes sail trimming & changes a lot easier. Someone may find it of use.
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇳🇿 jbkiwi ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 209 Views · 1 Like
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    Re shackle key-

    Hi Graham, was going to suggest the flattened tube idea, but thought it might be too easy for you😁. I actually made a larger long version from heavy brass tube years ago, to remove the jet from my old Swedish Sievert kero blow torch.

    JB
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇩🇪 RNinMunich ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 211 Views · 2 Likes
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    "I had a play with the knurling attachment I recently bought for the mini lathe and made a brass knob 😉"
    Really Graham? Didn't realise you kept brass monkeys! 😮 A toolmaker extraordinaire Colin!
    😁
    Oh dear, slapped wrists again 😭
    😎
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Colin H ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 216 Views · 3 Likes
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    Not only a great modeller but also a toolmaker. That's engineering to be proud of.
    Cheers Colin.
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 211 Views · 5 Likes
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    Hi JB,

    "you are going to have to make a scale shackle key to go with all these"

    I don't think a scale shackle key would help with fitting the pins, It would probably make it even more fiddly. However, your suggestion did get me thinking about a suitable tool to make screwing the pins into the shackles easier.

    It is simply a piece of brass tube with the end squashed to an oval shape so that it will slide over the flattened end of the pin. While I was at it, I had a play with the knurling attachment I recently bought for the mini lathe and made a brass knob 😉

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Martin555 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 212 Views · 2 Likes
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    JB,

    RE :- We'll have you sailing yet.

    I think i have been sailing before as i have been told on many occasion that i am sailing close to the wind LOL!!!

    Martin555.
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇩🇪 RNinMunich ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 212 Views · 2 Likes
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    "wind powered submarine 😂😂"
    Ooh er!
    Are you going to feed the crew exclusively on baked beans Graham? 😮🙊

    😁😎
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 211 Views · 3 Likes
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    Hi JB,

    “This thing better float Graham, remember the ballast is supposed to go in the bottom”

    If it turns out too heavy, perhaps I’ll try converting it to a wind powered submarine 😂😂

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇳🇿 jbkiwi ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 210 Views · 2 Likes
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    Re A twist shackle___

    Hi Martin, they also help stop your halyard twisting, and if you want to orientate a block in a particular direction where 2 fittings (eg mast and deck) might be at 90Deg to each other. There are many different types of blocks with attachment points 1. in line with the sheaves, 2. 90 Deg, (where these might be used) or 3. swivelling.

    Also to do with swivelling is a foresail drum furler, which has a swivel on the upper mast fitting and attaches under the drum to the foredeck fitting. Sail is pulled out with the sheet and furled with a cord wound on the drum. - Just in case you asked later😁 We'll have you sailing yet😁 (lol) Pic- furler set-up on my small yacht. (could easily be done on a model, but haven't seen one yet)

    JB
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    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 212 Views · 3 Likes
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    Thanks Martin,

    Glad you found that reference. The shackle is for the jib halyard block. Nice to know that “ if it looks right it probably is right” is good advice 😆

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Martin555 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 213 Views · 2 Likes
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    Hi Graham,
    Sorry I should of looked it up on the net before asking the question.

    I found this, now it makes sense.


    A twist shackle is usually somewhat longer than the average, and features a 90° twist so the top of the loop is perpendicular to the pin. One of the uses for this shackle include attaching the jib halyard block to the mast, or the jib halyard to the sail, to reduce twist on the luff and allow the sail to set better.

    Martin555.
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 212 Views · 1 Like
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    Thanks Colin, glad you are enjoying the build.

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 212 Views · 1 Like
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    Hi Martin,

    “why use a twisted shackle when a swivel block could be used”

    Simple answer is it just seemed the right thing to do! You have to realise I’m making this up as I go along. 😂🤣

    The plans I have don’t go into this level of detail, and I don’t have any experience of the full sized craft so I’m following the “if it looks right it probably is right” rule.

    I’d be happy to receive any guidance from anyone with some experience of these boats, and I’ll try to rework parts that are wrong, although I can’t promise I’ll always be able to do that.

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇩🇪 RNinMunich ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 213 Views · 1 Like
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    "why use a twisted shackle when a swivel block could be used."
    Simple Martin,
    So you don't get your swivels in a twist!
    Ooh naaasty! 😮🤔😭
    😎
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Colin H ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 218 Views · 3 Likes
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    Nice looking bottle opener JB.
    Cheers Colin.
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇩🇪 RNinMunich ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 213 Views · 2 Likes
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    "... this time with a twist "
    Hope that's all you got in a twist while fiddlin' about with that lot Graham!😮
    Suspect that The Management shackled you to the table 'til you got 'em all finished and stopped cussin' and chuntering!
    A real labour of love (or hate)!
    Remarkable 👍
    😎
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇳🇿 jbkiwi ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 212 Views · 3 Likes
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    This thing better float Graham, remember the ballast is supposed to go in the bottom😁. How are the fingers after all that? Now you are going to have to make a scale shackle key to go with all these😁. Don't want to put any ideas in your head though😉😁

    JB
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Martin555 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 213 Views · 2 Likes
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    Hi Commodore Graham,
    Just showing my ignorance, why use a twisted shackle when a swivel block could be used.

    Martin555.
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇳🇿 jbkiwi ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 212 Views · 2 Likes
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    Showing off again Graham?😁 very clever👍

    JB
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    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Colin H ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 218 Views · 2 Likes
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    Exquisite piece of modelling, truly masterful.
    Thanks for sharing with us mortals, cheers Colin.
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 213 Views · 5 Likes
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    Made another shackle today, this time with a twist (literally!)
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 213 Views · 2 Likes
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    Thanks everyone for the comments and the likes 👍

    Rick, I hope the colour is fading 😂

    Hammer, I'm going to use Dyneema line for the running rigging. I've used it on my Wee Nip and it's great. Main advantage is it doesn't stretch. I've ordered some builders line to use as the bolt rope on the sails.

    Gary, thanks for the comments. Willpower has been a bit lacking when faced with making so many similar parts, but now the end is in sight it is getting easier.
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇦🇺 stevedownunder ( Captain)
    ✧ 213 Views · 2 Likes
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    Absolutely love your work Graham,

    I can't really add to what others have already stated. 👍

    I am very much relived that the blue cord won't be making an appearance on the completed model.

    Cheers,
    Stephen.
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 GaryLC ( Lieutenant Commander)
    ✧ 216 Views · 3 Likes
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    Well done Graham, absolutely bloody brilliant, your eyesight, patients, and sheer willpower deserve comment and this is it, well done an amazing feat of endurance. I would have ordered them from Cornwall Model Boats. Mind that many would have cost a fortune. Regards, Gary.
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 hammer ( Lieutenant)
    ✧ 223 Views · 1 Like
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    Hemp builders line makes ideal rope..if you can get it, there are 3 thickness. Not the modern nylon. I also make other sizes on my rope walk. Although it’s 8ft long it only makes about 3ft finished rope.. To short for a lot of runs on my cutter.
    I was not clever enough to turn down to 1.7. I ha d to resort to hammering the ends of 1.5 wire until paper thin, then bending around a small nail.
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Newby7 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 214 Views · 3 Likes
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    I just turned GREEN Graham wonderful work.
    Rick
    💬 Re: Shackles
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Martin555 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 214 Views · 1 Like
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    Commodore Graham,
    That is awesome work.
    I am slowly learning more about sailboats thank's to your fantastic build log.
    I am really enjoying it.
    Keep up the excellent work.

    A well deserved promotion.
    well done sir.

    Martin555.
    📝 Blocks completed
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 216 Views · 10 Likes · 5 Comments
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    💬 Add Comment
    It turns out I needed 23 blocks in total with several different designs. Looking at them collected together, they certainly look 'hand made' 🤣.

    The blocks with beckets and those with swivel jaws needed threaded pins to fit. These were turned from 3mm dia brass rod and threaded 12BA. I chose 12 BA simply because it was the smallest size tap and die I had available. Inherited in a box of taps from my Dad although I can't imagine why he had such a small tap as he didn't build anything in small sizes 😂🤣

    Next I need to make some shackles to fit the blocks and the rigging.

    💬 Re: Blocks completed
    2 years ago by 🇳🇿 jbkiwi ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 212 Views · 1 Like
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    Didn't notice you were doing swivel blocks Graham, fantastic👍👍

    JB
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    💬 Re: Blocks completed
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 mturpin013 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 214 Views · 4 Likes
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    Hi Graham, you must remember these items when originally made would also have been "hand made" so they are as authentic as it comes well done on a job well executed.
    💬 Re: Blocks completed
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 214 Views · 2 Likes
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    Thanks Martin, Nerys.👍

    Nerys, I like the challenge of trying to make things that look right, even if it does mean I have no finger ends left, having sanded them away 😆. I just wish I had your level of detailed knowledge about sailing boats.

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Blocks completed
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Nerys ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 217 Views · 3 Likes
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    Graham, I think your blocks are fantastic, I can't tell you how much I admire your amazing skills in producing such as this. Even when my fingers were not in the stiff, arthritice bound , and lacking all feeling except deadness state they are now, I could not have approached this degree of craftsmanship. Your general boatbuilding ain't arf bad either.

    Cheers, Nerys
    💬 Re: Blocks completed
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Martin555 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 220 Views · 1 Like
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    Very nice Graham.
    I bet you are glad that bit is over.

    I think it is going to look great when she is fully rigged.
    Keep it up.

    Martin555.
    📝 Block making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 218 Views · 14 Likes · 8 Comments
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    💬 Add Comment
    Quite a few blocks are needed for the rigging. I'm not sure on the exact number yet but it is something like 20. After several trial attempts I settled on a method for making them which is repeatable and manageable in terms of the time and fiddling that it takes.

    The blocks are made from hardwood (Cherry) and fitted with brass sheeves. Lengths of wood were cut to a 6x2mm cross section. Some of the lengths are then grooved using a jig on the table saw. The grooves are 3mm wide by 0.5mm deep.

    To form the wooden blocks, a simple jig was made to hold four short pieces of Cherry in position while they are glued using CA. The top and bottom pieces in the jig are grooved and are positioned with the groove facing towards the centre of the block. The cross pieces are not grooved. Once the glue has set, the block is transferred to a second jig and drilled with three 1mm holes. The block is then trimmed and sanded to an oval shape.

    The sheeves are turned from 6mm brass bar to a finished size of 5.5mm dia by 2mm thick. They are grooved around the circumference. A strip of brass 3mm x 0.5mm is bent into a U shape to be used to reinforce the block.

    Once all the parts are ready, the block is assembled by first sliding the brass U into the channels formed through the wooden block by the grooved side pieces. Using the holes already drilled through the block as guides, holes are then drilled through the brass strip. The two outer holes are drilled 1mm for reinforcing pins, the central hole is drilled 1.5mm for the sheeve axle. The pins and axle are then fitted through these holes (threading the sheeve onto the axle as it is inserted), and glued into position with CA. Finally the pins are filed flush with the wooden block.

    Using the same method, several variations have been made to suit different applications on the Cutter.

    Six completed, only another 14+ to make 🤔

    💬 Re: Block making
    2 years ago by 🇦🇺 stevedownunder ( Captain)
    ✧ 216 Views · 2 Likes
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    Hi Graham,

    I love your blocks, beautiful work.

    Cheers,
    Stephen.
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    💬 Re: Block making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Allan ( Master Seaman)
    ✧ 217 Views · 3 Likes
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    Very well done Graham, great idea and very helpful to see your ideas for a jig to manage this task.
    Best of luck! with the rest.

    Allan👍
    💬 Re: Block making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 216 Views · 4 Likes
    Flag
    Thanks Rick.

    Martin, I know what you mean 🤓 I’m struggling to see what I’m doing some of the time. Mind you, I could also do with some new fingers as it feels like I’ve worn these down to the bone after making those blocks. I think they’ll have to recover a bit before I can make any more 😂😆

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Block making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Martin555 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 216 Views · 1 Like
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    Sorry Graham,
    I think i need to get my eyes tested and some new glasses.

    Martin555.
    💬 Re: Block making
    2 years ago by 🇨🇦 Newby7 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 215 Views · 3 Likes
    Flag
    Wow👍 Graham Great work.
    Rick
    💬 Re: Block making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Graham93 ( Vice Admiral)
    ✧ 216 Views · 2 Likes
    Flag
    Thanks Martin, JB,

    Yes, I’m enjoying the build, although I’ll be happy when it’s done. Seems to have been going on for ever 😉.

    I will be varnishing the blocks, but not until I’ve made them all, so it might be a while yet 🙄.

    Martin, there is a double in one of the photos. I have to make several more.

    Graham93
    💬 Re: Block making
    2 years ago by 🇳🇿 jbkiwi ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 218 Views · 3 Likes
    Flag
    Very nice Graham, and only another 14 to go,😁 - You're a devil for punishment!😂 Silly question I know, but will you be varnishing them ?😁

    JB
    💬 Re: Block making
    2 years ago by 🇬🇧 Martin555 ( Fleet Admiral)
    ✧ 218 Views · 2 Likes
    Flag
    Graham,
    I think you are really enjoying this build.
    The blocks have come out good.
    A nice goat of varnish can only improve already excellent work.
    Will you have to make some doubles as well.

    Martin555.
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