: Iwould like to build a scale model of a
: Cape Charles with a plywood hull and a cedar strip deck. I am not sure how to
: reduce the offsets to something I can mark on the plywood or to design
: some some stations for the stripping. Has anyone done this ? Does anyone
: have any ideas? Thank Joe

Hi Joe,
There are several ways to achieve the dimensions for a reduced sized scale model, but first you should have the table of offsets (and permission?) for the boat you would like to shrink. If you have such dimensions for the Cape Charles, simply multiply ALL dimensions by the factor you wish to reduce it (ie. for 1/4 scale, mult. ALL dims. by 0.25 etc...). Or if you have or can get a computer drafting program, draw it full size and use a scale command to shrink it, plot the panels and trace them to your ply material. A third method is to use an architect or engineer's scale (ruler) and transfer the measurements directly to your wood. Any way you choose to transfer these measurements, you should try it on paper first, that way you can shrink or enlarge on a copier or just to save it as a backup or for another model. The only panels you need for a hybrid are the bottom and side panels (no deck). Have you read "The New Kayak Shop"? Great book. It has all the information you need and plans for the Chesapeake 16 (similar to the Cape Charles). Follow the book's guidance, just smaller size and stop once the hulls completed.

The strip deck can be done with nothing more than the two permanent bulkheads, but if you need more support, cut out some deckbeams with a constant radius and leave them a bit long. Cut these deckbeams to fit anywhere you like and nail or epoxy them in place. There's really no rules for this, just put them where you need them (no stations). Strips can be glued to these deckbeams and to each other as you lay them on. Tape or clamp the strips well. If you really want this model to be waterproof, you'll either need to remove the deck to epoxy it or drill a small hole in the deck and squirt epoxy onto the inside of the deck and rotate it around to spread it out.

Some additional advice would be, the smaller the model the more difficult it is to have the plywood bend like it needs to and the smaller you'll wish your hands were. Use the thinnest plywood available. 1/8" Luan works ok, but tends to break apart at the ends (too much twist). Panelling also works. 1/4 scale or larger is much easier to build and looks more impressive, in my opinion. Once sanded, you can choose to glass it or not, depends on whether you want to use it as a billy club or not. Sand the epoxy and varnish. Basically, build it just like the full size, but smaller. Keep the strips around 1/8" thick or you'll risk sanding through them. Last but not least, be forewarned, THIS IS AN ADDICTING HOBBY! Once you finish the first model, show people, and tell them that you built it, you'll be hooked. Sorry, that's just how it is. Don't forget to post pics for the rest of us to see and if you run into any snags or need additional help, email me, I'd be more than willing to help.
SMF

PS This is a large photo (sorry), but shows my first model, a Chesapeake in the lower left and a couple of Guillemot hybrids. My latest model is a One Ocean Cirrus and is just over 6 feet long. I purchased the plans for the Cirrus to build this winter, took my own measurements (no offsets incl) and reduced everything by 0.33 for a 1/3 scale model to be built first.