Updated: 4/10/02

Bulkheads (April 2001)
Bulkheads B,E,G & H were cut and dry fitted into the hull. The hull still needs a little bit more sanding (notice the dark spots).
I want to wait until all of the bulkheads are cut before I begin cutting out the various access points in the bulkheads. I'm cutting the few that are marked on the bulkhead diagrams, but want to wait until I see all of the bulkheads in to cut the other ones.

So far Bulkheads B, G & H are made of 1/4" meranti plywood. E is made of 3/8". I think that I ordered too many 3/8" 4' x 8' sheets of Meranti plywood and not enough 1/4". I'm going to have to use the 3/8" for a few bulheads instead of the 1/4" as previously planned.

Last night (4/9/02), I lofted and cut the main cockpit bulkhead (F) out of 3/8". I don't know how many sheets that I'm off by, but I think that I need to take a look at my plywood usage. I know that I have enough sheets, it is just that I erred on the heavy side. I don't think this is a big problem.

The bulkheads are held in place with some clamps. Just want to get a feel of how this is going to look. Things are coming along pretty well.

Lofting
It takes me about 1 hour to transfer the dimensions to the plywood for each bulkhead. I have found that the outside dimensions are right on the money, but the interior cuts are a bit more complicated. I made a few errors in the lines for the cockpit, but after measuring 2-4 times and comparing my lines to the Full-Sized Patterns, I was able to remedy the problem.

I wouldn't recommend using the patterns, not because they are inaccurate, but rather because you loose the feel of the relationship of the various lines of the bulkhead as compared to that of the hull and future interior space. It may take longer and be more complicated to loft, but the feeling of satisfaction you get once the piece is cut and in place cannot be underestimated. When I first started, I was of the opinion that I would simply use the patterns and forego the lofting process. But now I come to rely on my skills and precision which gives me more confidence that I can move onto the next steps.

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