Vol 2 - Project Guides, Due Late Summer 2026
Volume 2, the project guides. These are detailed step-by-step guides to help with common projects. They include photographs from my own project refitting Brigid. Also included are wiring diagrams and construction drawings for each project. I plan to get this finished and published this summer but I have to finish the projects first!
Main projects will include;
Electrical systems and rewiring,
Including installing lithium batteries
How to build a sail from a kit.
Getting started on canvas work. Based on building a staysail and storm sail.
Heating and ventilation.
How to create good ventilation, install a blown-air heater, and build your own dorade vents.
Spar making.
How to make a bowsprite, including full construction drawings and strength calculations. Also notes on other short spars such as whisker/spinacker poles
Installing bilge pumps.
How to size and install pumps that will work in an emergency
Building a rigid doger.
Follow me building a small rigid doger for Brigid
Rigging and deck layout.
Fitting a bowsprit, stepping the mast and setting up all the sail controls on a 32ft cruiser. Includes ground tackle, mounting winches and clutches, setting up safety lines and stanchions, etc.
Deck repairs.
How to assess and repair a damaged deck, including laying new cover boards. This focuses on a plywood deck but would also be applicable to fibreglass.
Hull repairs and painting.
Covers minor repairs, filling, and painting.