Saturday, September 13, 2008

Day 1 - Framing Jig

Last week I ordered plans for a Glen-L Cruisette. I kicked off the project this afternoon by building the framing jig. This is not part of the boat, but the "scaffolding" upon which the boat will be constructed. I'll try and post updates every few work days.

The toughest part about building the framing jig is making it 100% level on all planes. I live on top of a hill that lacks sufficient bedrock (not to mention in earthquake territory), so the soil below my house shifts frequently. Therefore, the garage is not exactly level. I inserted shims below the vertical pieces to correct any slants and dips in my garage floor. Additionally, I marked the location of each piece with magic marker on the concrete floor in-case the framing jig slips during construction.



Framing Jig, port-side view towards stern



Framing Jig, view towards stern


Today's observations:

1. 2" x 6" douglas fir is a lot cheaper than I thought.
2. I can no longer play foosball in my garage.


Today's mental notes:

1. Measure twice, cut once (maybe three times).
2. How can I fanagle 50 C-clamps into my wedding gift registry?