I’ve always been amazed at how the color really comes out when you steam the wood.
After it’s dried about 10 days, I can start shaping the wood to fit. As I’ve said in the past, the planks expand anywhere from 3/8” to 1/2” due to being soaked and steamed. Although after the 10 days, most of the wood has shrunk back down to its original shape, but the edges get wavy. It’s amazing how wood takes its own shape.
Now it’s time for the back. This is much easier than the front top planks–not as much curvature.
Even though it’s the middle of winter and it’s probably in the 30s, I have to open the door to let the heat and moisture out from the steam box. It gets really hot and humid.
Last plank on the back. Turned out great! Now to just let it dry out for 10 days and then I can shape it and attach it to the boat.
Jack
Progress. Looking good JT!