Planking the hull…
To make planking the hull easier, the process will be broken down
into separate steps. Planking strips of different widths will be
used depending on the area being discussed. There will be many
steps in the process but take your time completing them all.
STEP 1- Planking the counter
– The counter will be planked
with two layers. Use 1/8” x 1/16” strips for the first layer. Cut
these strips a little longer than required so you can “fair” the
counter to shape afterwards. The final shape of the counter on
both sides should be symmetrical. A batten placed across the both
sides of the hull should smoothly transition from bulkhead #5 onto
the edgse of the counter. See the photo on the previous page.
Note how the counter planks create a graceful curve. Sand them
all smooth and apply some wood filler if needed to prepare the
surface for the second layer of planking. Before you start the sec-
ond layer of planking you must cut the opening in the counter
for the tiller. See the same photo and the plans for details.
Examine plan sheet one to find the size of the tiller opening.
Start by drilling a hole in the center of the opening and use
some needle files to enlarge it to the correct final shape and
size. This first layer of counter planking should make a flush
transition onto the stern piece (ZZ).
The second layer of planking will cover the counter and stern
piece (ZZ). This must be done now so the planking on each
side of the hull will overlap this stern planking rather than the
other way around. The stern planking above the counter will be
addressed later.
The second layer is planked with 1/32” x 1/8” strips. Plank the
counter first and trim the planks neatly around the tiller open-
ing. Since this is the final layer of planking you may want to
simulate the caulking between each plank which would have
6
The bulwark template is temporarily pinned to the hull and the
bottom edge is traced onto the bulkheads. The top edge of the
first plank will line up with these reference marks.
The five rows of planks placed under the
initial plank will frame the gunports. The
planks are trimmed flush with the port
edges.
Initial plank
1
2
3
4
5
1st belt of planking completed in step two.
Summary of Contents for Mayflower 1620
Page 2: ......
