: Hi,

: I built a Sea Flea 11 for my daughter 2 years ago (when she was 6).
: At 4'6, and 55 pounds, she still fits in it, but the cockpit is
: getting small. The problem is, I think the hull is sized very
: well for her at this point. She wants to learn more skills like
: bracing and rolling, and I don't think a larger boat will do her
: any favors as she grows her skills.

: My problem with the boat I've built is that because of plywood form
: #2 that sits around her knees, she has a lot less interior
: space, and she needs to climb in by sitting on the back deck
: (like an ocean cockpit). I could build her a larger SOF, but
: using similar construction, the boat would need to be taller
: than this one, and I don't want a taller boat.

: So, how can I build a S&G version of the same (or similar) boat. My
: goal is similar outside dimensions, with more interior space. Is
: it possible to design a S&G boat by trial and error with
: cardboard and tape? Then make it with plywood when the fit is
: right? Or does S&G design always require a computer program?

: Alternatively, does anyone know of an existing S&G design that's in
: the ballpark of 12' long, 19" wide, and 9" deep (front
: deck)?

: Thanks, Nate

Not all curves that are fairly easy to make with a SoF are able to be covered with plywood. The plywood can only be bent in one direction at a time while the fabric can easily bend in multiple directions all at once. Might try bending a piece of light weight ply over the existing boat to see if it'll make the curves required and if it will you can mark the panels using the same method, strap the sheet of ply on one surface, gradually cutting it to fit. Then you'll just have to join the panels.

Still, it's fairly easy to make a different kind of frame for the middle of a Yost kayak that allows more room to enter and exit. A laminated wood frame will be just as strong and not protrude into the interior as much making it much easier to get in and out.

I've done now a couple Yost boats with the frame in front of the cockpit having the deck part of the frame laminated, makes it much easier to get in the boat.

Bill H.