Sjekte 11: Drilling the Propeller Shaft

Sjekte 10: Completed Hull

Sjekte 9: 9 Board

With just 2 boards left, the hull is taking shape.

Sjekte 8: half planked

Sjekte 7: planking the garboard

We start with rift sawn white oak boards

Once the boards have surfaced and cut to size, they are located on the CNC router for machining. This includes routing out a third lap where two planks meet and a half lap at the bow and stern

Next, we steam the board to make it bend to the shape defined by the ribs

Now that board has been steamed, it can be located and bent into place, we will follow this same process for all 11 planks

Sjekte 6: turning the keel

Now that the ribs are set, we use the rotisserie to turn the boat skeleton to enable planking

Sjekte 5: Keel with Plywood support ribs

Sjekte 4: Rotisserie

Welding 2 x 3 tube steel to a wide flange creates a "ladder" around the hull. We will use this structure to rotate the boat in order to facilitate the planking.

Sjekte 3: Finished Keel

Now that the keel is cut and shaped, we will construct a rotisserie that will enable us to spin the hull around.

Sjekte 2: Cutting the Keel

After Many weeks of design, it was time to put the virtual design into built form. The keel was made by creating a "blank" that roughly follows the shape of the finished keel.

The blank was then accurately located on the CNC table and the design shape was cut out.

In addition to the final shape, we programmed the machine to route out a groove that will accept the wood planks.

Sjekte 1: Old World Tradition meets CNC Technology

Eiesland Woodwork is known for its high-end custom cabinetry. We have decided to test the limits of our skills and machines by undertaking a new project that combines Old World tradition cutting edge technology. Our goal: To build a boat like a cabinet by modeling the form and every detail on the computer then sending this information to a CNC, or Computer Numerical Controlled, Router.

With various software platforms including AlphaCAM and Rhinocerus, an Onsrud PanelMate CNC Router and the experience of highly skilled craftsman, we are attempting to forge a new method in boat building.

Please follow us as we explore the advantages and pitfalls of this process as we construct a 24' long, wood hulled Norwegian Sjekte.