When the cross frames have been mounted on the strong back, the longitudinal center support beams are installed, and the transom is firmly connected to them to resist 3D forces, we are ready to move on. The next step is preparing the wood edges that contact the shell so when I add the hull planks over them, they will lay in the most fair curves.

Below I am getting some help from Owen, Jane and Will, my grandchildren.

Fairing means making a curve regular so that no noticeable dips or bulges are present. I start with the tape measure to try to get both sides of the boat symmetrical. But sooner or later, it becomes an exercise in hand and eye work. Long straight edges are helpful near the back of the hull, as there is a 6-8 feet flat zone on both sides of the keel.

However, as the runners go forward, they need to follow the curve of the hull, and a straight grained bendable stick helps find the high spots to work down. Ultimately, the eye gives the final inspection and Jane and Owen appear to be satisfied.

The further we go toward the front, the more critical and difficult the fairing becomes, to see how the planks will lay on the compound curves. Below, Jeff Margush, my main partner in design crime, is working multiple test sticks close together, to sleuth out how this difficult front end can get fair and fine.

Someone should have told me how difficult it is to design and build a vertical bow shape. Much chair time for thinking and some couch time for dreaming is required . . .