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Boat docks are not merely useful for docking boats but can additionally be utilized for other activities. In some instances they can provide a decorative touch to a property that is large enough to include a lake or any other body of water. Once you are considering building a boat dock, your major concern should initially be its overall strength and then how it looks. A well built boat dock ensures that you and any other user will not have to worry too much about any minor or major accidents that may occur because of badly laid or rotting boards. Hence you should be careful during the process accurately measuring and laying your boards. You should be able to accomplish this task once you have a fundamental understanding of carpentry and are fairly handy.

How To Build A Boat Dock

Required Tools

Lumber

Screws

Required Materials

Hammer

Drill Screw Driver

Instructions

To begin you need to determine what kind of dock you will likely be building. There are two main types these are floating dock or free standing dock, the one you choose will depend on what you have deemed more convenient. You will also need to decide on the size of the dock that you will be using. For water that has enough depth a shorter dock may be fine. If the area is noticeably shallow then a longer deck will be needed to allow effective docking of the boat. Essentially you will have to first think about functionality above all else.

The next consideration will be the area you will love to have for entertaining. If you are someone who views the dock as a secondary entertaining spot then you may desire a fairly wide lounging area complete with an area for boarding. This information along with the actual measurements you have decided on beforehand will go towards the creation of your plan. You may make these plans yourself if you are very proficient, however, you may get plans from a hardware, print book or using the internet. Search for those that are close to what you need and desire. Much of the success of your dock will be based on the strong fundamentals of your plan.

Purchase your equipment from a hardware store. Basically you should acquire the appropriate amount of lumber needed. These should be a mixture of 2 by 6 and 4 by 4 boards. Ensure that these are treated bits of wood. While you will be able to apply varnish and other post treatment coverings, pre-treated wood will add durability to the newly purchased lumber.

The first area that you will need to build is your lounge section. Position your support pieces and then drill and screw the boards in at each of these areas to safeguard the structure. This is not very difficult and will go much more quickly if you acquire the help of an able worker. You will repeat this procedure for the boarding section of dock. In addition to doing this you will need to attach bumpers to the edges of the boarding dock to make it safer for you and your passengers.

This section is a bit harder. You will need to get your large sections of wood in the water to anchor the structure. These are there to make certain your dock will not float away. This step may best be left to a professional if you are not up to it.

Now you can put your lounge area and boarding area into the water and anchor it to your large posts that were previously in the water using a combination of hammering and drilling to secure the structures in place. It is best to utilize eye bolts and screws for this task.

Tips

Get help if you are able, moving these big pieces especially from land to water will be quite hard.

Be sure that all your pieces are securely in place before using your dock.

To repair a fiberglass hull on boats may appear to be an easy job because it basicallyinvolves patching any weakened areas usinggelcoat. However, the preparation that needs to be done is the most crucialstep in the process and will have the biggest impact on the soundness of the work you will do. Because of this you will need to be precise when repairing the hull on your boat. Basically the process requires a bit of sanding, application of polyester resin, waxing and buffing to restore the original gloss. It is critical that you do not merely fill any cracks with additional material as this will be liable to break off. This is because gelcoat is extremely brittle once dried and will crack soon after being affixed to the area.

How To Repair A Fiberglass Hull On Boats

Required Materials

Polyester Resin

Pigments of various colours

Hardener

Tape

Rubing Compound

Required Tools

Sand Paper

Gloves

Rotary Tool

Screw Driver

Popsicle Stick/Plastic Scraper

Instructions

To start you will have to make your surface rough to add your filler comprised of gelcoat, pigment and a hardener. To accomplish this you will need to use your sandpaper, rotary tool and screw driver. Essentially you will be allowing the gelcoat to have a stronger grip on the flawed area. Omiting this step as mentioned previously will cause the gelcoat to crack after it has been laid. Ultimately you will have to take your sandpaper and create a jagged texture to your area. After you have done this you may use your screw driver or rotary tool to dig a valley in your work area, thusproducing a satisfactory number of rough edges. Once the valley is created you can then smooth out the surrounding areas and utilize some of tape to distinguish the area that will be patched. To make certain you don’t ruin the areas that are undamaged closest to the work area, use extra tape to cover those areas.

It is now time to prepare your filling. The most difficult part of this exercise will be to mix your gelcoat to look like the exact colour foundon the hull as it is currently. The best advice will be to mix your colour before you think of mixing your polyester resin and hardener to create your gelcoat. If you mix all of the aforementioned materials together at one time you will have only 20 minutes to get the colour right by trial and error. Therefore for this part of the process mix only the pigments and polyester resin together and test on a small area of material that is like your hull and let it dry a bit. It is probable that the colour will look slightly different when the colour is dried. This part of the process will need a bit of artistry and some patience will be required.

When you have got the colour to match the hull you can then add your hardener. However, before adding the hardener pay close attention to the guidelines and ensure that you put in the correct amount to prevent a poor mixture that will lead to an alteration in the colour you’ve mixed and an unsatisfactory finish. You should not add the hardener to the complete amount that you have made but instead to small portions as you proceed. This will ensure you will not have to remix the colour which as you should already know necessitates some amount of time. It will also ensure that the areas being patched will be uniformly coloured.

To fill the section put on the gel coat with a popsicle stick or any other type of flat applicator. Try to do this as smoothly as possible. It doesn’t need to be extremely smooth because it will be sanded. When you have completed filling the space it should be a bit higher than your encompassing section, this allowance should be left to enable better sanding of the area. You may need to apply a few more layers while sanding in between to get it to be slightly elevated. Let this dry for 24 hours.

After it has dried you can then sand down the area and remove the masking tape from the untouched areas to get the area as close to this as you are able to. You may then apply another thin layer or\f resin and let set overnight.

You may then buff your section with the rubbing compound until it looks just as attractive as the unspoilt areas.

You can add a bit after you are finished to give extra protection from UV rays.

Tips

You may want to wear your gloves to prevent the mixture from getting on your hand.

Try to work cautiously so that you do not end up damaging any areas that are still in good condition.

There are times when it may become necessary to change out your present windows. Quite likely this need may come about from having windows that are worn down from consistent exposure to the elements. However, there are other times where this seems essential because of a desire to change your homes appearance. There are many types of windows that can be used in the current space. You may choose sliding windows, louvred windows, hooper windows, traditional French windows, double hung windows et al. In addition you may choose a number of materials that can add longevity and or a more traditional aesthetic to your windows. The primary materials you can use are inclusive of: aluminium, fibreglass, vinyl, wood and fibrex. Although aluminium will be fairly inexpensive, it is best suited for warmer climates where heat loss is not a problem, vinyl is a better choice if you reside in a colder climate as is wood with the exception that wood windows require more maintenance in the form of periodic paintings. Fibreglass is the most expensive option but still very durable and the best choice for colder climates. Fibrex is also a top notch choice as it gives you the longevity of wood combined with the lowered maintenance needs of vinyl and superb energy efficiency. If the windows you will be installing are highly energy efficient you may be eligible for rebates from your electric supplier. Determining these measurements yourself is not that difficult to accomplish, however, you will have to be meticulous throughout to make sure your windows will fit.

How To Measure For Replacement Windows

Required Materials

Paper (to jot down each measurement)

Required Tools

Measuring Tape

Pencil

Instructions

You know how to measure for replacement windows? Your windows will need to be measured for height width, level and square. If you are doing your measurements as a means of getting an estimate, then height and width dimensions are fine. To do this get your measuring tape and measure the two sides of your window’s length, (just in case there is a slight change) and also measure the mid section of your window. Then write down the three measurements, if they are the same, (which they should be, may only off by a centimetre at most), only one height measurement will be needed, if they are off then use the shortest height measurement for an estimate. Then take your measuring tape and measure the width of your window at all times maintaining accuracy by placing the measuring tape from one end to the other end of your window. Obtain some help if the windows are large or if you would like a second opinion. This type of measurement will be perfect for vinyl, aluminium and steel windows, but solely for estimate purposes as said previously.

It should be mentioned that you will have to write your measurements with the width measurement first, then the height the measurement in relation to the custom that most businesses will use. If you do it the other way around without labelling clearly height and width measurements your newly created windows will not fit. If you are measuring for wooden windows, your correctness may be off by a couple centimetres and still work because these windows may be adjusted to fit the area by sanding.

Tips

It is important that you measure the window sections correctly, especially if you are getting vinyl replacements that are individually made to fit the measurements that you provide. Aim for accuracy and you will have very few issues.

Consider measuring your windows more than once, do the same area at least three times at separate times to increase accuracy, try to make it correct right down to the tiniest marking on your measuring tape. Therefore even if you end up with a decimal in your final measurement at least you will be sure your windows should fit.

In current times pinatas have grown very well-known objects for children’s birthday and Christmas parties. Pinatas have surely come a long way from the initial pinatas which were clay pots unlike the paper mache structures that are so popular today. They are fairly simple to make and can provide quite a few hours of entertainment for you and your kids. So if you are up for the challenge of building one, here is all you have to know to make a paper mache pinata on your own.

How To Make A Pinata

Required Tools

Newspapers

Large Bowl

Scissors (optional)

Required Materials

Candy

Balloon

Masking tape/clear tape

Flour

Water

Crepe paper and streamers

Paint

String/yarn

Instructions

1. Especially if you are working along with small children, be sure to cover your work area meticulously as making a pinata can be a very messy task. Tear or use scissors to cut several strips of newspaper about 1-inch wide and 6-8 inches long and set them aside. Blow up the balloon and set it aside too.

2. Next move on to the paste; in the bowl mix a paste using the water and flour, heat the paste over medium heat for 3-6 minutes. The paste must proceed to thicken however, if it is too thick it will not work well therefore watch it carefully. You need the paste to be thick enough to stay in position without dripping all over the place however, at the same time it has to be workable.

3. Dip the newspaper strips you made into the paste and cover the balloon with them leaving a small hole around the area where the balloon is tied so that you can pop the balloon and remove it later on. Apply 3 newspaper layers to the pinata and when it is dry, deflate or pop the balloon and take it out.

4. Next, paint your pinata in bright colors and decorate it with crepe paper, streamers and whatever else you choose. Finally you need some way to hang your pinata. Punch 4 small holes in the pinata around the hole you left for the balloon and run string/yarn through the holes and tie them together at the top. Now all that is left is to fill the pinata with candy and other treats, stuff or tape the hole shut and your pinata is ready for use.

Tips

When you are gluing the newspapers to the balloon it may be hard to hold the balloon so rest the balloon in a bowl that is covered with plastic wrap to keep it in one place.

Make the surface of the newspapers as level as you can so the pinata is easier to decorate and looks smoother.

Check out a couple of the tutorials available on the internet for tips on making your pinata in various animal shapes.

Use individually wrapped candy to fill the pinata. Although bulk candy may be cheaper and more convenient, keep in mind that when the pinata bursts all the candy will spill onto the floor so individually wrapped candy is best.

How to build a tree house

A tree house is a great way to acquire extra play space for children or may even be used as an entertaining area for adults in some instances. The look of your tree house may be modified to suit either purpose. Your main goal should be to achieve durability, stability and then attractiveness. Once you utilize the proper materials your child’s cosy space to himself or your nature lover’s leisure spot may be crafted to suit your desires adequately. Once you have created your sturdy structure, you may apply a couple finishing touches to make it even more inviting. Essentially this should become an outdoor retreat that may very well last you a few decades or more if it is maintained effectively. Before building a tree house, choosing the appropriate plan and the right tree will be the first two elements you should decide on before starting this project. You will also be more successful if you acquire the assistance of a few friends. You may have great fun undertaking this project and you will certainly see your triumph in full bloom once the tree house has been completed for use.

How To Build A Tree House

Required Materials

Lumber

Galvanized Screws

Concrete (cement, sand and gravel)

Gravel Base

Clamp

Required Tools

Jigsaw

Hammer

Post-hole digger

Drill

Level

Instructions

1.To begin get your second frame board and position it. Then brace it for extra support. Then you will need to drop a plum bob from the board to the ground this will distinguish the area where you will place the first post hole. Create a mark at this section and then use a post-hole digger or shovel/spade if you do not have a digger and create a hole of 2 feet in depth. If you go a bit deeper that will be okay, however, be certain that enough of your post will be available to connect to your tree house structure.

2.You can now pour the gravel base into the hole; this should take up no more than 3-4 inches of the hole. Place your 4 by 4 post into the newly filled hole and utilize a post level to make certain the post is perfectly vertical. After doing this secure your post by clamping it to the frame board, this will stop it from swaying.

3.To secure your post further you will now have to put in your concrete mixture into the post hole. Put a bit of water on top of the mixture to prevent air bubbles from forming. Your post will be stable after it has dried properly. Repeat this process for the other two posts.

4.Put up the other two frame boards to complete your base structure. Put a few galvanized screws into the corners to make sure that they are secured properly.

5.Drill your posts and frames and then put in the carriage bolts properly. Put on your washer and nut and then re-enforce the two with a normal socket wrench to stop shifting. You will need to cut the tops of the posts so that they will be symmetrically in line with the top of the frame. You may use your jigsaw to get a better cut. You may use a level to ensure that your cuts are level on top.

6.Build your ladder using your two by fours. Cut them to fit the area, making both rails and rungs. Nail them or screw them in place based on the surface and your actual preference.

7.Now you are ready to lay your planks at the top of your base structure. Ensure you leave spaces in between each piece of lumber. Nail them down properly.

8.Then create your wall frames using four by fours and wall studs. Put the frames around your platform and screw them firmly in place.

9.Use a few pickets around your wall frame to giveextra stability to your structure. Re-enforce these will screws and a nail gun.

10.Your tree house is after all that ready to be painted and decorated as you like.

Tip

Before building examine the tree carefully. Have professional look at it to make sure there is no damage that you may have missed. The tree needs to be healthy and apt to support the weight of your tree house.

A chain link fence is a good way of setting boundaries around an area such as your yard while still keeping the space open and being able to see all around. If you are looking for something to give seclusion then a chain link fence is probably not the best choice for you unless you are going to plant hedging along the fence. However, by itself a chain link fence is very poor for privacy as it is so open.

Installing a chain link fence may be quite expensive if you hire a professional to do it however, with a little aid it is something that you can do on your own. Here are a few guidelines to help you install a chain link fence of your own.

How To Install A Chain Link Fence

Required Tools

Fencing

Post hole digger

Carpenter’s level

Strong string and stakes

Required Materials

Fencing

Top rails

Terminal Posts

Line posts

Cement

Tension bars

Tension bands

Terminal post caps

Loop caps

Brace bands

Carriage bolts

Wire ties

Instructions

As with all other home improvement projects, the first thing when installing a chain link fence is to check if you require any building and zoning permits before you put in your fence. As soon as this is worked out you may begin. Use string and stakes to mark out the location where the fence will run. Locate your underground utilities and stake out the area they are in so you do not interfere with them.

Use the post hole digger to dig holes 8-10 inches wide with a even bottom and not a rounded one, in other words the posts must sit level in the hole. Plant your terminal posts first (corner, end and gate posts) and use the cement to hold them in place. Use the level to guarantee that the posts are straight and level.

Then, dig holes for the line posts a maximum of 10 feet apart, between the terminal posts, 4 inches shorter than the terminal posts and cement them into position also; make sure they are also straight.

Now slide the tension and brace bands over each terminal post and place a post cap on the top. Set loop caps on the top of ever line post and run the top rail through the loop caps. Use carriage bolts to secure the top rail to the brace band. Join the top rails together right around the fenced area.

Lastly unroll the chain link material on the ground along the fence line and slip a tension bar through the last link on the fencing. Place the fencing against the posts and secure the tension bar to the terminal post with the tension bands and carriage bolts. Use the wire ties to stretch parts of the fencing to the top rail and prevent it from drooping.

Tip

Terminal posts must be 2 inches taller than the fencing material while line posts must be 2 inches lower than the fencing material.

How to build a shed

A shed is a great way to expand the storage space of any home. There are many different kinds of sheds, some are factory made and will merely to be set up and installed using the instructions of the design. However, for more handy and ambitious persons, building a shed with their hands may be all the better. It is a fairly simple activity for a person with moderate carpentry experience to do and may literally take just one day to complete. The timeneeded will definitely be reduced if the aid of another person is utilized. A regular shed will not require a complex design, nonetheless you should consider specific details before commencing this project. These may be inclusive of the kinds of materials you prefer to utilize and the complete support structure of the shed, i.e. whether it will specifically be held in place with foundation or constructed to be mobile. If built properly your shed will not only be ideal for storage but an attractive addition to your current outdoor area.

How To Build A Shed

Required Tools

Hammer

Saw which should be circular or crosscut.

Framing square.

Screw driver

Stakes

Line and Level

Measuring Tape

Shovel

Required Materials

Treated lumber in a variety of pieces: 2x4s, 4x4s, 2x8s (and extra sizes for the joists, beams, rafters and skids.)

Treated plywood may be optional depending on the design.

Cable tie downs and wooden skids (for mobile sheds)

Concrete/Compactable gravel (for foundation)

Roofing material: This will depend on the style you choose, it may be shingles made from wood or fibre glass, aluminium sheeting, clay tiles, etc. In addition wood sheeting for foundation of the roof structure and a few metal pieces for support.

Doors

Windows

Nails

Hinges

Screws

Wood glue (optional).

Paint

Wall Studs

Cladding Boards

Instructions

1.To begin you will need to make the foundation. The foundation of course will be dependent on the type of shed you have chosen to construct. For a shed that will be cemented to the ground you will have to use your concrete or compactable gravel at this point. Mix the concrete with a shovel and pour it over the space you have alloted for building your shed. For the compactable gravel, prepare and then layout to fill the entire area as you would with the concrete. For a shed that requires no foundation you will start by fixing your skids in place with hammer and nails.

2.Create your flooring using the lumber you have purchased to do this. If you were using a concrete base it may be possible to tile the floor for more posh designs or leave it with only the concrete foundation as a kind of flooring, this can be made more becoming with paint or any other method of adding colour to the concrete. For wood flooring you will build the frame of the flooring with pieces of wood spaced at a certain distance apart according to with your design, secure these in position with your hammer and nails. Put the plywood over this floor frame using a drill and screw or hammer and nails in relation to the method of your design.

3.Construct your wall frames. You should measure these properly using your line and level, measuring tape and framing square. Attempt to be as methodical as possible to ensure that the structure will be sturdy. Cut the sections of lumber using a saw or power saw. You will first need to install the wall studs and nail them in. You may position them at 2 feet apart. This should allow greater ease of installing the 4 foot cladding boards that will be utilized in building of the walls. Once the structure is erected you may go ahead and put up the wall frames, a second person would make this task an easier one. You will need to drill these pieces in place securely so that they will not fall apart as soon as you begin utilizing your shed. Nail the corner studs in position thereby finishing your wall.

4.Now you can create your roof. This will commence by utilizing your largest piece of lumber to create a single roof beam which will be placed above two supporting structures. You can then designate pieces for the end rafters, which should allow four at the rear and front positions. You will then cut smaller sections to create smaller rafters to finish the base of your roof structure. Be sure to use your level at this point for greater accuracy. You can then put up your ply-board over the now finished base structure. Once this has been nailed in you may then add your cover over roofing material to complete the job. You may want to consider priming your roof with paint or some other form of water proofing material before putting on the last layer of roofing material.

5.You can then install your doors and windows by making spaces for them and erecting them with your, hammer, wood glue and hinges. You may probably only need one door and quite likely no more than two windows depending on the design.

6.You can now paint your shed and install a few shelves and cabinets for storage.

Tips and Warnings

Ensure the materials you choose are long-lasting and will not deteriorate once they come in contact with the elements.

When working with power tools be certain that you are not close to any sources of water to avoid electrical shock, this is particularly crucial if you are working within rainy periods.

To aid the design phase think about utilizing plans that may be found at hardware stores or even via the internet to make construction a lot easier.

Make certain you have meticulously planned your construction needs, i.e. ensure you have obtained all the essential materials and tools before you begin building your shed. Buy in excess to avoid any hindrances that may come about because of insufficient materials. Some stores may enable you to return the materials within a predetermined time, hence eliminating the possibility for wastage.

If you will be running electricity into your shed, consult an electrician to avoid any possible post-construction electrical issues.

The purpose of a door is to permit entry and exit into a room however, it must also provide protection from the elements when it is shut. Steel doors are a good method of giving security from intruders and fires. Also you will not need to worry about it rotting or being attacked by insects. Here is how to put in a steel door on your own.

How To Install A Steel Door And Frame

Required Tools

Pry bar

Drill and bit set

Hammer

Screw driver

Required Materials

Steel frame and door

2 inch screws

Nails

Wall board

Wall board tape

Shims

2×4 stock

Plaster skim coating

Metal studs

Instructions

If you are changing out an existing door, the first step is to remove the existing molding. Use the pry bar to pull the molding from the wall until all the molding right around is down. Take the screw driver and screw out the hinge pins and take out the hinges and the door; use the drill or pry bar to remove the door frame, sills and jams. Obviously if there was no door in the doorway, there is no need for this step.

Then comes the framing of the wall; ensure that the wall around the door is structural and set the frame in place. Nail a pair of 2×4 stocks together and put them inside the wall as a brace. Remove the studs on either side of the steel door frame and replace them with the metal ones and then screw the studs straight into the existing sill using the screws. Do the same to the header wall frame.

For the placing of the new steel door you will need the aid of another individual. With the aid of your companion set the door in front of the opening and then tilt it up and into position. Level the door with the shims and set it into place; the steel door and frame might come with interior supports to keep the door straight and square.

Using the shims place the door in position between the jambs and level it by adjusting the shims on either side. Use the 2-inch screws to screw the lockset side of the frame to the metal stud, only screwing the screws in about halfway and then screw in the hinge side of the frame also halfway. Move the shims to make sure the door is still level and plumb and opens properly and then tighten the screws. When the door is firmly in position take down the 2×4 frame braces.

You are almost done with your task to install a steel door and frame; all that is left is to patch the wall around the door where needed and take out the old wallboards and nail the new wallboard in place against the door frame. Plaster and tape the boards and you are finished.

Tip

The level and plumb readings may vary a bit when you screw the door and frame into the metal studs therefore look out for this and make corrections as necessary while you go along.

Building a replica of anything can be fun, this is actually a hobby that is taken on by many individuals who find the pastime fulfilling. You may build a model sailboat as part of a larger set or you may construct it simply to see it work in real life conditions, either at a lake or in fact in a more controlled structure like a swimming pool. Whatever the reason is for building a model sail boat the one thing that is certain is that you may get very inventive with the design and its appearance. This specific design is relatively simple and will not necessitate a great deal of skill, however, if you are naturally good with your hands then this will be to your advantage.

How To Build A Model Sailboat

Required Materials

Scissors

Staple gun

Box cutter

Hand saw

Drill with ¼-inch drill bit

Required Tools

Balsa wood (2 by 4), 8 inches in length

Sandpaper

Waterproof glue

Wood dowel, approximately ¼-inch diameter

Canvas, cotton sheeting or paper which will be used to create the sail.

Instructions

1)To begin you will need to make your hull. To do this shave your wood to make the shape of the hull, this will be carried out using your box cutter to mould the piece of wood, allowing it to create a point at the end of the wood. You will want to concentrate on the sides of the wood also, this will after all be the base of your sail boat. Basically you should construct an angled shape once you are done.

2)To give your hull a nice smooth appearance you will have to sand it properly. This will give it a more defined look. To reduce the excessively angled shape you created before you will have to use the sand paper to give it a more rounded edge, this will increase the realism that you may be going for.

3)You will now have to drill a hole in your hull, this will be utilized to install the support mast for the sail. This hole should be in the centre in the hull and should be drilled to a depth of about ½ inch. This will add to its structural integrity, though it is a model boat you will want it to sail as close as possible to the real thing. Additionally, it will look more attractive with a well balanced sail.

4)Construct your dowel by cutting it to a length of 6 inches utilizing a hand saw. This should be a precision cut that is both straight and even. Therefore be patient and take the time to get it near perfect.

5)Sand this newly created dowel making sure that the edges do not have any splinters all over it, this may be an annoyance when the boat is being used.

6)You can now insert your mast. This will be done by placing your wood glue in the hole you previously made within the hull and then pushing the dowel mast into it. You may realize that the glue will spew out while you are inserting the dowel into the hull however, you can just wipe and then allow the parts to dry. Dependent on the glue it may take as little as 20 minutes and as much as an entire day to dry. During this period you can go ahead and create your sail.

7)When making the sail you will want to cut your chosen material (paper, canvas or cotton sheeting) into a 4 inch equilateral triangle using scissors therefore it should be totally symmetrical. To enhance the symmetry use stencils or accurate measurements. When the sail has been cut out you may add any extra decorative elements to it especially if your glue has not yet dried.

8)You can then affix your sail to the dowel mast when it has entirely dried. Wrap the sail around the dowel mast in such a way that the edges of the material are not visible.

9)You can then create the rigging for your boat. You will achieve this by gluing the string to the position where the sail is glued to the mast, for the other end the staple gun is all you need to secure rigging to the hull.

Tips and Warnings

You can put on a keel to give the boat some more realism. You may do this by utilizing a bit of balsa wood cut in the shape of a thin triangle that you may glue to the bottom area of your boat.

Do not let children use the drills, jigsaw or staple gun even if you are making this a family project.

Before constructing your halfpipe you should determine the full dimensions ahead of time, that is, the length and width of the construction. A larger ramp would be best for skaters who prefer a bit of challenge and/or who are more experienced. Building a halfpipe is not extremely difficult, but will require a bit of carpentry know-how.

How To Build A Halfpipe

Required Materials

¼ Plywood

¾ Plywood

Required Tools

Jigsaw

Nail

Wood Glue

Wood Screws

Roller

Paint Tray

Carriage Bolts

Instructions

1.Start by constructing a life-sized template of the quarterpipe. You will need to utilize this as a guide while constructing your halfpipe. Essentially you will be using this to make sure that all your end supports are identical in size. You may use ¼ plywood to make your template.

2.Join the pieces that you have formed using duct tape or if you feel like being a little bit more proficient, utilize a bit of ¾ ply to make scab plates that you then can join together with normal wood screws.

3.Cut your ply in half along the vertical path, you will be getting more out of the wood by doing this.

4.Cut off a portion of about 2 feet from one of your pieces of ply and join/scab it to the large piece that has been left uncut. By doing this you should now have a 2ft by 10ft rectangular base.

5.Then you will need to build a 5 foot square that you will then jin to your rectangular structure, it will look like a very large boot when you are finished.

6.Mark out your radius utilizing your nail as a guide. The radius should extend from the top corner to the lower corner that is just benaeth the nail.

7.Using a jigsaw cut out the radius for your template.

8.Now you can utilize your quarterpipe to create your end panels. Building your end panels by utilizing two layers of ¾ inch plywood. You will need to laminate the two together to make certain that it remains stable while being use. This can easily be done by using wood glue to attach them together. Place some wood glue in a paint tray and get a roller and place a thin layer of one glue on the area to be laminated. Place the top layer over this layer and ensure that the edges are flushed. Allow this to set overnight. When it has set you may use your template to build the end panels. Cut these out using a jigsaw.

9.Once more you will utilize your template, this time to build intermediate supports. Create scab plates from ¾ ply attached together, make sure that the scab plates are at least two inches away from the edges.

10.Cut a few 2 by 4s into about 3feet by 9 inches in length. Make certain they are cut equally.

11.These 2 by 4s can then be placed on your structure to create the flooring. Nail these in adequately with a hammer and a few wood nails.

12.The most important part of the process is making your support frame. This will enable the halfpipe to support your weight. You may opt to create additional support by securing your structure to a building. Once you have figured the type of framing you will utilize, anchor this to the almost complete structure utilizing carriage bolts.

13.Then create your riding surface using 3/8 inch cdx ply for better flexibility. Run the layers in the same direction ensuring that the end joints are set up unevenly for additional strength. Screw these layers unto your flooring once you have set them up correctly.

Tips and Warnings

It is possible to get your ground more level by shimming under the framing. However, if you are doing this make certain it is executed properly as this may result in a weakened overall structure.

Your halfpipe should not wobble, if this happens you may have to anchor it with some concrete. You can do this by placing your quarter pipes into the ground for additional stability.