Tips from a Shipwrightvideo

Building the TotalBoat - Checking for symmetry (Episode 14)

September 29, 2016 · 7 min · 238K views

What this video covers

Louis Sauzedde and his assistant Andrew are building a wooden skiff, focusing on ensuring the hull remains symmetrical before installing the bottom planking. To verify symmetry, they clamp two pieces of fur across the frame heads and run a center line from the stem to the stern’s outboard aperture. Using a folding rule, they measure the distance from the top of the second plank to the center line at the boat's widest point, confirming an identical 37.5-inch measurement on both the port and starboard sides. To maintain this alignment, they install a diagonal brace from the bottom of a frame on one side to the top of the frame on the

Watch on YouTube

More from Tips from a Shipwright

Building Orca - Ep. 23: Mold FIVEMar 2026Progressive BevelingFeb 20261958 Harley Davidson Panhead Motorcycle - For SaleFeb 2026Building Orca - Ep. 22: Lofting Pt. 3 - Full Scale LinesJan 2026

From Tips from a Shipwright — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.

Report an issue