Greg's Glen-L 12' Power Skiff

We are happy to share a successful build of Greg’s Glen-L Power Skiff 12, and wanted to offer our compliments on his build process, dedication and quality of finish that he did on his build. His construction uses the stitch and glue method, which pulls the panels into shape using steel or copper wire and the joints are epoxy glued. The surfaces are then sanded and fiberglassed using epoxy and woven cloth. Surfaces that are in high impact zones in the construction (like the keel, bow stem, transom and motor plate) should be fiberglass. The above the waterline and on the inside of the hull, epoxy barrier coating can be sufficient for light use, if heavy use and impacts (like beaching or rougher water conditions) are expected, fiberglass and ribs are added. In Greg’s build he exemplifies the use of internal structure with an internal keelson, floating decks out of 9mm plywood and a stern bench to reinforce the transom. He has also used the gunwales to increase rigidity but also give a great appeal and style.

Greg has also proven to be a dedicated and meticulous builder, which has made this Power Skiff a great example of how he used his materials in an ideal way to have excellent finish but also a durable craft. In his email he comments that he used East System Epoxy as well as West System Epoxy for his fiberglassing and barrier coating. We strongly recommend using quality epoxy in high quality constructions because they are going to result in high durability and clear finish. The Epifanes Clear Polyurethane Varnish is used to UV protect the epoxy and natural materials. Epifanes Clear Varnish has very little tint, so it gives the most natural finish and transparency. Once again, Greg has nailed the application of the varnish, as well as taking the time to ensure that the preparation work was done to a high degree so that the varnish could amplify his good work. Only because of his great application of epoxy and choice of grain and colour of the Okume Marine Mahogany Plywood in his construction, the final result is top quality.

When building plywood stitch and glue kits we must always understand that the construction is an accumulative process, and that proper use of quality materials and attention to correct use of the materials will produce the results that Greg demonstrates. At our shop we are approached with builders that are using incorrect material for their constructions, or are working in haste to accomplish the build. There are always ways to construct water craft on a budget, but the materials must also lend themselves to the finish and lifespan the builder desires. If the initial quality of the core material (plywood, foam, cedar, etc.) is low then the builder does risk failures of that core material. Plywoods can be reinforced with composites like foam and fiberglass, but the costs of the build and overall weight of the craft will be affected.

We asked for photos of his completed build because we want any feed back from the customer so that we can give better service and products for current and future clients. This is an excerpt of his email to us.

“Hello Boatcraft,

I bought all the supplies from you back in 2019 to build a simple 12' Plywood Skiff, and I think at the time we discussed that I would send you photos - so here they are!  I started it in 2019, and finally finished it in July of this year (I cheated a bit a put it in the water last year not quite complete).  It's built with Okoume plywood from you, as well as a combination of East and West System epoxies and hardware, and Epifanes clear varnish.  It's been a long process, but mainly because I was so intermittent with my build hours due winters, relocating, and life in general.  It is based on the Glen-L Power Skiff 12 (stitch and glue) plans with a few minor modifications, and goes quite quickly with a vintage 1957 Johnson 10hp.  It has Micron CSC bottom paint on it so I can leave it in the water all summer - it came out very clean after 6 weeks.  There are definitely things I would do differently next time, but it was a good learning experience.  The name "Pioneer" is meant to be partially reflective of my first boat building attempt, and I'm hooked now, so the next one shouldn't be too far away.  I actually have a stack of Okoume plywood which I purchased from you in January 2021 so I could build my grandfather's Glen-L Ski Tow - still on the list of projects!

….

Cheers,

Greg”

Thank you for your email and conversations in store, we appreciate the feedback.

Products Used in the Build:

1. 3mm 6566 Okume Marine Mahogany Plywood
2. 6mm 1088 Okume Marine Mahogany Plywood
3. 18mm 1088 Okume Marine Mahogany Plywood
4. West System 105 Resin and 205 Hardener
5. Epifanes Clear Varnish
6. Interlux Micron CSC antifouling Paint
7. 6 ounce E-glass Fiberglass Cloth
8. 6 inch Inspection Hatches
9. Chrome Zine Bow Eye
10. Bronze Drain Tube
11. Wood Flour