Bob's Bin Framed

Bit of an experiment this, but it worked fine. Five frames, laminated from three layers each of 6mm Vendia, making an overall 3/4in x 1 1/8in, which were then notched over the keel and riveted in traditional fashion.

I was a little concerned that by using the moulds as the jigs from on which they were laminated, the curve would be to the inside, but in the event  there was plenty of spring and give in the finished frame to accommodate both this and the twist in the fore and aft frames. The three middle ones went in easily. In fact, apart from the time taken laminating, the process was quick and stress free: no juggling hot wood and, crucially, the frames could be sealed inside and out before fitting. It is impossible to prime or seal steamed timbers, to their long-term detriment. I am confident these will last for a very long time.

The frames once fitted the shell has stiffened accordingly and once the gunwales are in, even more so. These will be the only nails used, apart from to fasten the gunwales, and I think give a bit of character in an otherwise all-glued hull. A combination of new and old techniques, which appear to work well in this case.