How to Pattern Lapstrake Planks - Glued Lapstrake Planking - Pt . 3 - Building Gannet - Episode 12

Welcome back to Nomad Boatbuilding! In this episode of Building Gannet, we dive into the art of spiling—a crucial (and often misunderstood) technique in wooden boat building. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this step-by-step walkthrough will show you how to pattern for planks when building a glued lapstrake plywood sailing dinghy.

You’ll learn:

What spiling really means in traditional boatbuilding

Why typical spiling methods don’t work well for lapstrake planking

How to accurately record plank shapes and attitudes

Pro tips for fair lines, fitting techniques, and avoiding distortion

Tools and tricks (like hot glue and battens) that make life easier

This hands-on demonstration uses Gannet, our current dinghy project, to teach practical techniques for patterning, fitting, and cutting planks—without relying on elusive plank patterns in boat plans.

💬 Got questions about spiling or wooden boatbuilding in general? Drop them in the comments!
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00:00 Intro
01:07 What is spiling?
01:58 Marking plank widths
06:15 Connect the dots
10:20 Moving the pattern
12:33 Staggering scarfs
15:05 Fairing in the lines
19:28 Cutting out the planks
20:28 Smoothing the plank edges
22:31 Outro