Wooden Boatbuilding

Wooden Boatbuilding is a comprehensive and beautifully illustrated guide to building and restoring wooden boats using both traditional techniques and modern methods. As the inaugural title in the Classic Boat series, it is written with the amateur in mind, yet detailed enough for aspiring professionals and students of boat design.

This fresh, accessible approach focuses on traditional construction while integrating up-to-date materials and techniques. Richly illustrated with colour photography and delicate watercolour diagrams, it walks readers through every stage of the build – from plans and lofting, through hull structure and joinery, to the rig and finishing touches.

Main Sections

• Plans of the Boat – Interpreting boat plans, choosing designs, taking off lines and understanding offsets.
• Traditional Construction – Materials, timbers, planking methods (carvel, clinker), frames, caulking and internal structures.
• The Rig – Masts, spars, rigging types, sailmaking and sail maintenance.
• Practical Information – Building techniques, amateur courses, legal regulations and additional resources.

About the Author

Jean-François Garry runs a traditional boatyard and chandlery in Fouras, France, where he also supplies popular plans and kits for amateur boatbuilders. His deep experience in hands-on construction and restoration informs every page of this landmark book.

Praise for Wooden Boatbuilding

“A good affordable introduction to the subject for amateur builders, students of boatbuilding and even model-makers. Well illustrated, and focusing on modern methods and techniques – unique among such books. Very attractive.”
– Pete Greenfield, Editor of Watercraft magazine

“The book is a pleasant read and... ideal for anyone thinking of carrying out a bit of restoration or amateur wooden boatbuilding.”
– Sailing Today (February 2011)

“This book takes a potentially daunting project and breaks it down into relatively bite-sized chunks so that you're able to enjoy the process of building your very first boat.”
– Furniture & Cabinetmaking (February 2011)

“Essential reading – an invaluable guide”
– Sailing