Become the Confident Skipper of Your Own Sailboat
Sailboat model building.
- Post author: Anns
- Post published: October 11, 2022
- Post category: Uncategorized
- Post comments: 0 Comments
Introduction
You can build a model sailboat out of wood, and it’s really easy. This blog will show you how to build a basic wooden sailboat model that’s good for beginners and more experienced modelers alike.
How to build a Sailboat: Part 1
Building a sailboat has been my dream since I was a kid. I have always wanted to build one from scratch, but never had the time or money to do so. Now that I am retired and have more time on my hands, I have decided to start building this beautiful wooden sailboat model from plans that I bought online. Here’s how you can build your own wooden sailboat:
How to build a Sailboat: Part 2
Before you can begin building a sailboat, you need to build a keel. The keel is the main part of your boat and without it, your boat would have no stability. This is what keeps the boat from tipping over when sailing in rough seas.
Next, you need to make a hull for your sailboat model by using pine wood or balsa wood strips that are glued together with sticky glue (which is sold at most craft stores). After making sure that all of the pieces fit together properly, start applying paint or stain onto each plank so they look real!
Afterwards, make sure there are no gaps between each plank so that water cannot get inside while sailing out on open waters! You’ll also want as many planks as possible because this will improve your ship’s speed! In fact…
How to Build a Sailboat: Part 3
Now that you have a hull, it’s time to turn your attention to the deck. The deck is what rests on top of the hull and provides a platform for sailing. The size, shape and placement of this part are all up to you based on what kind of ship you want to build.
Once you’ve made your decision about how big or small your deck should be, take measurements from below so that it fits snugly in place over the hull. You may need some help from someone with better eyesight than yours if parts don’t line up quite right (as they often won’t!). Then cut out some wood planks with a saw and glue them together using wood glue or waterproof epoxy (like Gorilla Glue). Afterward make sure everything fits snugly by sanding down any rough edges before painting or staining them!
At this point everything looks great with just one problem—it needs something more than just wood planks sticking out everywhere! So let’s start adding railings next….
How to Build a Sailboat: Part 4
Being able to build a sailing ship from scratch is a skill that many people never get around to learning. It’s not just hard, it’s also expensive. Not everyone can afford to go out and buy a kit where all the pieces are put together for them, nor do they want to spend hours in the garage cutting wood with their tool of choice. Here at Sailboat Model Building we’re here to help!
In this article we’ll be showing you how you can build your own sailboat from scratch using nothing more than some basic tools, maybe a table saw if you’re lucky enough, and some time on your hands (but not too much!). We’ll also teach about why building your own models is an important step towards being able to build real life sailing ships in the future!
You can make your own sailboats from wood.
You can build your own sailboat from wood. To do so, you’ll need:
- Wood for the boat’s hull and deck (about ¾ inch thick).
- Plywood for the boat’s keel and mast (about ½ inch thick).
- Fiberglass cloth to make a fiberglass hull that is stiffer than wood. It should be cut into 2-inch wide strips with an overlapping seam in the middle of each strip. The seams should run lengthwise along the sides of the boat instead of parallel with them so that they won’t show when you’re done painting it. The cloth needs to be about 6 inches longer than each side of your boat; use Velcro or duct tape at either end so that you can overlap them without getting any glue on yourself while working on this project!
- Epoxy resin glue which comes in two parts – one part hardens quickly while another part hardens slowly over several hours or days depending on how thickly they’re applied together! This makes sure everything stays put even when exposed to strong winds out there sailing around on open water!
Building a real sailboat from wood is a rewarding project that can be done with minimal tools and space. It’s also something you can do with your children as long as they’re old enough to understand safety precautions for working with sharp objects like saws or knives. I hope this blog has given you some insight into how it’s done!
You Might Also Like
5 water sports while sailing, try the mast of a ship app an app that lets you track every aspect of your workout., leave a reply cancel reply.
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
The Model Shipwright
How to build first-class ship models from kits or from scratch using actual ship plans, free downloadable high-resolution ship plans, starting point for scratch-built ship model building.
All the the plans offered on The Model Shipwright and The Model Shipwright blog are available on this site in high-resolution files. The images on the blog posting are linked directly to the page here with the downloadable files, or you can search from this page by ship type, ship name, or the historical period in which it was built. We put a lot of work in tracking down these plans, and in some cases digitized them ourselves and put in time cleaning up and repairing the images to make them more useful. Feel free to use them for your modeling projects, but please don’t just take them to repost on your site. We have digitally watermarked them to identify them as coming from this site.
Motor Vessels Ships for which the primary motive of propulsion is an engine
Sailing Vessels
Vessels for which the primary motive of propulsion is sails
Oar-powered Vessels
Vessels for which the primary motive of propulsion is rowing
Coast Guard Vessels
We offer plans of U.S. Coast Guard vessels ranging from early sailing cutters of the revenue service to modern motor vessels such as the buoy tender White Sumac.
Ships whose primary purpose is warfare are cross referenced on this page, whether motor, sail, or oar-powered vessels
Cargo Ships
Ships whose primary purpose is cargo transport are cross referenced on this page, whether motor, sail, or oar-powered vessels
Utility Vessels
Ships whose primary purpose is to serve the maritime industry, such as pilot vessels, tugboats, or lighters are cross referenced on this page, whether motor, sail, or oar-powered vessels
15 comments
How detailed are your plans? Can you email me one page showing it?
You can download the plans directly from the website. Go to the page of plans you want, and left-click on the plan image to open the image file. Then right-click on the image and choose “save image as” to download it to your computer. The plans can be opened with any image-editing or preview software. Save it to a removable drive and you can take the drive to a local copy shop to be printed on their large-format printer.
Do you accept donated paper plans? I may thin out my collection.
Send us a message on our contact page, we’re always looking for submissions!
WAGB -10 or WAGB-11 Looking for plans. Can anyone help? Thx
I have a set of some 200+ plans for WAGB-10, what are you looking for?
Ton I am looking for pg 1 and pg 2 of the plans for the baltimore 2 1:64 scale
I am looking for drawings of below main deck layouts of 1700-1800 “Man of War” ships. Do you have any?
Check out our page on the French Man of War Montebello It has several views of the below decks.
does anyone know where I could get plans for a VLCC oil tanker /?
I have some GA plans for some tankers, what are you looking for?
I am looking for the typical or average hull ratios: beam/lenght, beam/keel, beam/depth, beam/draught, tonnage, displacement, and burthen of the various types of Ships during the age of sail. Any recomendations?
One of the best experts on the subject was Howard Chapelle. He probably answers the question in one of his many books on sailing ships. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Howard_I._Chapelle
[…] Ship Plans […]
Anyone know of a source for plans for the Steamer Eastland, that capsized in the Chicago River in 1915?
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
- PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
- EDIT Edit this Article
- EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Happiness Hub Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
- Browse Articles
- Learn Something New
- Quizzes Hot
- Happiness Hub
- This Or That Game
- Train Your Brain
- Explore More
- Support wikiHow
- About wikiHow
- Log in / Sign up
- Hobbies and Crafts
- Model Making
How to Build a Model Ship
Last Updated: August 4, 2024 References
This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff . Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. This article has been viewed 248,688 times. Learn more...
Model ship building is an interesting hobby that many people enjoy. It can be a lot of fun to see your model ship come together as you build it. Most model ships are accurate representations of actual ships and even share some things in common with their construction processes. If you've never built a model ship before, don't worry. There are plenty of model kits that have all the pieces you'll need to build your own model ship.
Buying a Model Boat Kit
- Your local hobby shops will likely have model boat kits available to buy.
- Many on-line hobby shops can send a model boat kit to your home.
- There are many different model boat kit styles that you can buy. Many of these will have a differing levels of difficulty and challenge.
- If this is your first time building a model boat, try to select a simple model for beginners.
- Do some research on the type of boat you are building to help you get an idea of what it will look like when finished. [1] X Research source
- You will likely want a wood plane or sandpaper.
- Small pliers can help when assembling the model.
- You may find a complete ship model tool kit that will provide everything you need to get started.
- Each model boat will have its own instructions.
- Always consult your instruction manual every step.
Building the Body of a Model Ship
- Make sure all the parts are accounted for.
- Make sure none of the parts are damaged.
- Find your instructions manual and review it.
- You may need additional tools or materials. Check your instructions to see if you need to buy anything else before getting started.
- Slide the bulkhead frames into the keel. The keel will be the long piece of the frame, running the length of the boat. The bulkheads will slide into slots found on the keel. Bulkheads will help shape the planks of your boat when it's time to apply them.
- Once you're sure everything fits, you can glue the bulkhead frames into the keel.
- Make sure everything is level and flat on the top of the frame. If any bulkheads or areas of the keel are higher than others, use sandpaper to level them off.
- Place a plank over the bulkheads.
- If there is a space where the plank doesn't touch a bulkhead, sand the bulkheads down until the plank rests flatly against each bulkhead.
- Take your time and make sure each plank will lay flatly against the bulkheads.
- Make sure to test both sides of the bulkheads.
- If you sand one area down too much, you can add tiny slivers of wood later on to level off the plank.
- You will likely place the first plank at deck level.
- Planks run the length of the boat, from fore to aft.
- Each plank will be glued to the bulkheads that it is meant to touch.
- Check your model's instructions to learn where you should place your first plank.
- Add planks in pairs to ensure they are even and level with one another. Your first planks should mirror images of one another.
- Soaking planks in water can help them become more flexible.
- If there are any gaps, you can use wood filler or small pieces of wood to fill them in.
- Your model may have you add additional layers of planking. Follow your model's unique instructions when adding planks to ensure the best results.
- Additional layers of planking are often decorative.
- You may need to taper some planks to close up gaps.
- Your model boat's hull should look completely smooth after sanding it.
- Each plank will look like it was naturally blended or attached to the next.
- No one plank should stick out further than another.
- Double check your model before adding any finishing touches.
- You may need to use wood filler or small pieces of wood to make the deck piece lay level.
- Take a moment to sand down any rough areas that you might notice.
- Your model will likely have specific instructions for attaching the deck piece. Always check your instructions to make sure your model will be successfully completed.
Finishing the Model Boat
- Most wooden model boats will require some kind of wood stain and sealant to protect the wood.
- Some models can be decoratively painted to look like their real life counter parts.
- Matte or stain polyurethane finishes can be a great addition to your model boat.
- Figurehead.
- The boat's wheel.
- Quarterdeck.
- You can buy model boat displays at many hobby stores.
- You shouldn't have any leftover parts from your model. If you do, try to figure out where it was supposed to go and add it if possible.
- Be careful with your finished model boat as it will be fragile.
Community Q&A
- You could also try buying a plastic kit. Most plastic kits come with pre-made sections that can be snapped or glued together easily. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
- Don't be in a rush to assemble your model boat. Take your time with each step to make sure everything is correct. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
- All models will have their own instructions. Try to follow these as closely as you can to ensure great results. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Things You'll Need
- A model boat kit of your choosing.
- Tools required by the kit.
- A clean and well lit space to build the model in.
You Might Also Like
- ↑ http://www.intothings.com/reality.html
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GulqnmgkPpQ
- ↑ https://daveifm.wordpress.com/
- ↑ http://www.building-model-boats.com/boat-hull-design.html
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bSyVTYBwOmc
- Videos provided by Gary Brinker
About This Article
If you want to build a model ship, buy a boat kit that will have all of the pieces you’ll need for your new hobby. Most kits require some basic tools to assemble, like a wood plane or sander and small pliers, so make sure to check the requirements before you start building. When you’re ready to start, begin by building the frame, including the bulkheads, deck, and hull. Once the frame is done, stain, paint, or seal your boat to give it a more finished look. Then, add details, like sails, masts, wheels, and rigging. When you're done with your project, buy a model boat display at a hobby store to proudly show all of your hard work. To learn how to sand your model boat, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No
- Send fan mail to authors
Reader Success Stories
Muftah Shahob
Dec 19, 2017
Did this article help you?
Featured Articles
Trending Articles
Watch Articles
- Terms of Use
- Privacy Policy
- Do Not Sell or Share My Info
- Not Selling Info
wikiHow Tech Help Pro:
Develop the tech skills you need for work and life
Build a Plank on Frame Model Ship
Introduction: Build a Plank on Frame Model Ship
Step 1: Tools and Supplies Needed
Step 2: milling wood, step 3: making the keel.
Step 4: Adding the Stem
Step 5: Adding the Sternpost and Stern Deadwood
Step 6: Making Frame Blanks
Step 7: Cutting Out the Frames
Step 8: Making the Cant Frames
Step 9: Making the Building Jig
Step 10: Framing the Model Part 1
Step 11: Framing the Model Part 2
Step 12: Framing the Stern Transom
Step 13: Adding the Outer Planking
Step 14: Preparations for the Main Deck
Step 15: Framing the Main Deck
Step 16: Framing the Quarterdeck
Step 17: Adding the Main Deck Details
Step 18: Adding the Quarterdeck Details
Step 19: Final Details
Recommendations
Art and Sculpture Contest
Microcontrollers Contest
Outdoor Life Contest
BoatNews.com
Free model boat plans: the MiniX, an easy-to-build radio-controlled sailboat
We set ourselves a challenge: to make a sailing model. In the end, after hours of reflection and work, we discovered that we took as much pleasure in designing and building as we did sailing our yachts. Here is the description of our project and the plans to download. Another article follows with the steps of the realization.
An easy-to-build, eye-catching, high-performance sailboat
Who hasn't dreamed of a little wooden sailboat with a beautiful canvas cover? The idea for this project is a child's dream.
Sailing on a regular basis in "scale 1", we had the idea of having fun by sailing two boats to race in our "spare time". The boats had to meet the following specifications:
- Easy to transport. Measuring just 50 cm, our MiniX doesn't take up much space in a trunk. However, the keel and mast can be dismantled. If need be, the MiniX can even be included in our vacation luggage.
- Able to be thrown into the water "out the back of the car" without complicated implementation.
- No investment that would jeopardize our homes. As this is not a one-off activity, we didn't want to invest in expensive radio controls (our boat's biggest expense). A basic radio control kit is powerful enough to handle "small" sail surfaces.
- Resembling a sailboat at best, hence the presence of the deckhouse and cockpit. These two elements give a sense of scale without resorting to model-building. Above all, a sailboat must be beautiful. Don't we also sail for the pleasure of our eyes?
Modern construction
To keep it light (ready to sail , the MiniX weighs just 800 g), the hull is an extruded polystyrene/epoxy resin sandwich (laminated Depron). While this process is not impact-resistant (though...), the structure and sandwich make it very rigid. Together with the deck, the whole thing forms a kind of egg whose strength is astonishing. It's impossible to apply the slightest twist to the hull, despite its lightness (the bare hull weighs just 260 g).
Our yacht has a chine hull. But this doesn't detract from the look, as the chines are largely rounded and, combined with the straight bow, give the illusion of a beautifully shaped hull. When sailing close-hauled, the stern of the MiniX lifts off, limiting drag in the water.
Technical data
- Overall length (with rudder): 56 cm
- Hull length: 51 cm
- Width: 17.6 cm
- Draft: 25 cm (but this may change...)
- Air draft: 92 cm (mast: 86 cm)
- Operating weight (with sails, servos, batteries and keel ): 800 g
- Bare hull weight (without servos and keel ): 260 g
- Weight of ballast: 240 g (but may vary according to draught...)
- Wing surfaces: Jib= 6 dm² GV= 15 dm²
MiniX drawings
You can download the plans. They're simple and precise. We made our two boats by printing them on a basic A4 printer. Then we simply assembled the sheets by superimposing them and gluing them (repositionable spray glue) to Depron. A sharp cutter is all it takes to build the MiniX with precision.
Just one thing: we've put a lot of heart and soul into building this yacht. We'd be delighted if our experience could be put to good use. Don't hesitate, help yourself! But be so kind as to let us know with a little comment. We'd love to hear from you.
Here you can download the first part of the plan in A4 PDF format .
With this you already have the complete boat. Based on the construction photos, there's not much missing to build the whole MiniX. But since we're taking care of you, here are the sail plans too:
- Mainsail plan
Real sails with webs for their shape.
The construction budget
MiniX doesn't have to be expensive. We've always tried to find a way of "diverting" objects to make our project a reality. So it's hard to come up with an exact budget. It will be higher for someone who doesn't even own the basic tools , and much lower for someone who does it in the back of his already well-stocked workshop.
- 6 mm Depron sheet (2 sheets, 125 x 60 cm)
- Epoxy resin + fillers
- Glass fabric
- 4 mm plywood (a small piece for the keel , keel shaft and rudder)
- Carbon tubes (6 mm for the mast and 4 mm for the booms)
- GV carbon batten (1/10 mm in kite stores)
- Remote control servos kit ( first price: ?60)
- Florist paper for the sails (a good opportunity to give pleasure...)
- Blenderm (surgical tape), available from chemists, to join the sails. Cut the 20 mm roll in half to double its length.
In the end, we estimate a maximum budget of ?120 per boat (calculated in 2021).
Because a construction project like MiniX is above all a team project... And in a team it's good to be complementary.
The MiniX project went through a long phase of gestation - reflection - intellectualization - drawings - exchanges - helping hands to get to this stage. Today, it's sailing thanks to this pooling of skills. We hope you'll enjoy this project as much as we have. And we look forward to hearing from you in the comments or on the forum. Enjoy!
- For Sale/Wanted
- Readers Tips
- Your Yarns.
- Restoration
- Miscellaneous
- DIY Boat Yards
- Boat Building
- Cabin Cruisers
- Free Boat Plans
- Begin Boating
- Boating Terms
- Ropes and Rigs
- Just for Fun
- Celestial Navigation
- Passage Planning
- VHF Marine Radio
- Diagonal Scale
Sailboat Plans
Free Sailboat Plans
A selection of some of the Free Sailboat Plans (pdf) that were published in magazines such as “Popular Mechanics”, "Popular Science" and the "Boat Builder Handbook".
If you need help with lofting out the plans click here for an article here which should help.
- Open Dayboats/Dinghys
- Rowing Boats
Open/Dayboat, Free Sailboat Plans
Everyone who digs boating has heard of the Hobie Cat, the sleek little catamaran that burst on the scene and captured the attention of all the fast-action sailors.
Marked by asymmetrical hulls and special trampoline supports, the Hobie can reach speeds above 20 mph and perform with a rare agility.
But it has one drawback.
It costs mucho dinero.
Thus, we introduce the Hobby Kat, sailboat plans, a build-it-yourself version of the “Hobie” that should cost from half to a third of the commercial version. If you have the moola, of course, go for a Hobie and have the time of your life on the water.
If not, try our Hobby
The homebuilt is not quite the same.
But she sails sweetly and fast—qualities which have made the “Hobie” popular
Even in a light air she’ll slip through the water at a fast clip.
She has no centreboards, leeboards or keel, and needs none.
The inside of each hull has built-in lift, like an airplane wing, so that as the boat heels and one hull digs in the boat is pulled back to windward.
Click Here for the Plans
She can run in very shallow water and the rudders kick up for beaching.
You can carry her on a trailer or even disassemble her.
Many a “stink pot” addict will take a second look at Tern because she planes in modest breezes, is easy to handle, and her streamlined prow arid pod-shaped, “inland scow” type hull offer slight water resistance. Then too, there’s a charm about the tiller of a sailer that’s not matched by the wheel of a motor-powered boat. Part of it is the challenge of making the most of nature’s free-wheeling breezes. Even with her 72sq.ft of sail, this Free Sailboat Plan is remarkably stable, and packs as many as four persons aboard
For thousands of inland lakes, Tern is the answer to sailing water sport, she is rugged and easy to launch
And she’s remarkably easy to build.
Falcon is a small, speedy, sporty sailboat which handles well. Tests on the original Falcon showed that she could easily out-distance boats of comparable size such as the one design class Snipe and Comet sailers.
And she will pace neck and neck with 18 footers with considerably greater sail spread.
This strong, beamy, eight-foot pram may be sailed either cat-rigged or sloop-rigged.
The dagger-board may be adjusted forward to balance the helm when sailing with the addition of a jib sail.
Oars or a small outboard motor may also be used to power this versatile Free Sailboat Plans.
Dart” is a small two or three person sailing craft, designed for use on protected waters such as bays. lakes, rivers or wherever sheltered waters are found. Its construction will repay the builder handsomely and provide a fast sailing craft, light in weight, easily transportable and cheap to construct with all difficult joinery eliminated
It provides thrilling and economical sport.
The 'Crescent', designed by C. T. Allen, is the ideal sailboat for day sailing on a small lake, river, or protected waters of a bay.
Centreboard design (Fig. 2) reduces Crescent's draft, so Shallow is not a problem.
Its broad beam of over 5½ft. makes it an ideal family boat because there is room for a cockpit large enough to accommodate four adults or two adults and three kids, and side and forward decks big enough to stretch out on when sun bathing.
"Jewel" is a 16' Crescent Sailboat being built by Mike Allen from the free sailboat plans by C.T .Allen in the 1958 "Boat Builders Handbook". And what a superb job Mike is doing check out his photos here .
Click Here for the Free version of the Plans
Sailing enthusiasts and backyard boat builders are not likely to find free boat plans for a sailing pram that can be built faster, lighter, stronger, or less expensively than Graefin-10. Two men can begin work on a Friday evening and have a smart, lively 10-ft. 85-pound sailboat in the water by Sunday evening (it’s been done).
Zephyr Is a refinement of a type of boat developed by the English for use in the rough open waters of the English Channel. Not only is it fast under sail, but it can stand up under punishment. And it’s light enough to be easily loaded atop an auto or light trailer.
Breeze-Baby
Skimming off a brisk wind or with the wind abeam, Breeze-Baby actually planes with one person aboard. Despite her rowboat lines that make her easy to build, she handles easily under her simple sail, an ideal first boat. Simple lines are adapted to plywood construction that’s strong, light and that keeps Breeze-Baby’s bilges dry
You can take her with you atop your car or on a lightweight trailer for summer fun wherever you vacation or get in a week-end’s sailing.
Cat’s Paw is easy to build because of the straight-sided hulls. The sheer line is flat and that simplifies building the form. Bow and stern are straight, so there’s no cockeyed bevel to fit and fuss with
She Is an Ideal boat to learn or practice sailing in because she will forgive so many mistakes.
Cabin Cruiser, Free Sailboat Plans
Previous posts
See What Others Have Posted
Recent Articles
Boat Winches
Jun 21, 24 04:18 AM
- Boat Plan Books
- Boatbuilding Tips
- Glass Cloth
- Stitch and Glue
- Strip Plank
You might like these
Knotty wood, problems with boat building timber.
Knotty wood, how to avoid structural problems with knots in lumber when using softwood timber for fitting out and boat joinery
Build a Boat, tips for the DIY Wooden Boat Builder.
How to Build a Boat, Wooden Boat Building methods for the DIY, backyard, self-builders explained, carvel, lapstrake and plywood
Wood Screws for Boat Building and Repair.
Wood Screws are the most widely used and versatile fasteners used on wooden boats. Which type to use and how to use them
Wood, Environmentally Friendly Boat Building Lumber.
Make sure that the Wood that you buy and use is sustainably grown and harvested.
Timber, Lumber for Boat Building.
A brief description of the most common Timber used for building Wooden Boats how to choose wood for your project boat
Timber Properties
A brief guide to timber properties and wood, characteristics such as strength, stiffness and elasticity for choosing lumber for wooden boat building and restoration.
Rivets and Copper Rove Wood Boat Fastenings.
How to use Copper Rivets and Roves construction guide to fasteners on your wooden boat.
Ring Nails for Marine Fastening.
Ring Nails sometimes call Gripfast or ring shank, silicon bronze boat nails are renowned for their holding power. but how to get them out?
Plywood and Veneer Guide for Marine use.
A guide to plywood for boat building and why you should use the best marine grade you can afford.
Glue for Wooden Boat Building
Which Wood Glue to use when building or restoring a wooden boat, resorcinol to epoxy.
Rowing Boat Plans
Free Rowing Boat Plans for the backyard home builder, build your own rowing boat, dory, folding dinghy or pram using these simple plywood designs.
Free Motorboat Plans
Free Motorboat Plans for the backyard home builder, build your own speed boat, cabin cruiser, runabout or utility boat using these simple plywood designs.
Wooden Boat Kits.
Wooden boat building is easy and inexpensive with wooden boat kits. From row boats and kayaks to sailing cruisers, boat to be proud of
Supplies for Wooden Boat building and Maintenance
Supplies for Wooden Boat Building and restoration, how to choose the materials and marine chandlery for your project.
Small Boats, Made of Wood
What Everybody ought to know about building Small Boats, guidance and tips for self-building or restoring.
Owens Boats
Jun 05, 24 12:14 PM
Penn Yan Boats
May 28, 24 07:51 AM
Wooden Boat Restoration, Repair and Maintainence.
Wooden boat restoration, how to fix up an old wooden boat, one of the cheapest ways to get afloat and have a boat to be proud of.
Epoxy Resin for DIY Wooden Boat Building.
A guide to the epoxy resins and sustainable enrtopy resins to use when building wooden boats with marine plywood.
Wood Rot Repair and Treatment
Wood rot in wooden boats, how to treat, repair and replace rotten timbers in a wooden boat
Privacy Policy
Advertising Policy
Cookie Policy
I am perfectly aware that the majority of Wooden Boat aficionados are sensible folk. However, I need to point out that I am an amateur wooden boat enthusiast simply writing in order to try to help other amateur wooden boat enthusiasts. And while I take every care to ensure that the information in DIY Wood Boat.com is correct, anyone acting on the information on this website does so at their own risk.
Affordable Sailboats You Can Build at Home
Last Updated by
Daniel Wade
September 13, 2023
Key Takeaways
- There are many sailboats that anyone can build from home depending on tastes
- Budget will be the biggest deciding factor on a majority of the process
- Consider kits that come with most of what you need or choose ones that are all-inclusive
- Design complexities and new materials may make the building time process longer
- Plan the best you can ahead of time to save money and your working hours
Buying a sailboat can be expensive, but building your own can save you money. So what are sailboats you can build from home?
Sailboats that you can build from home will likely be a small boat under 20 feet. These could be from many different boat suppliers such as B&B Yachts, Brooks Boat Designs, and Chase Small Craft. Boat plans will vary based on your budget and how much time you have on your hands.
Based on my previous experience, building your own boat will take much longer than if a professional were to do it. You also have to be able to study plans, consider various sailboat designs, and have tons of supplies such as fiberglass tape or fiberglass cloth. On top of that, you will also have to be good with your hands.
Table of contents
Top 10 Affordable Sailboats Anyone Can Build at Home
Building your own pocket cruiser or other styles from boat plans is an impressive feat, as this will need dedicated time and money to assure your boat sails safely. Boat building takes a lot of patience as well, especially since this will not be completed in a fast manner.
Finding boat plans and materials that fit your budget will be key to being able to complete the project. The time it takes to complete these projects will vary on your overall experience and needs. Below are 10 of the most affordable sailboats that you can build in the comfort of your home.
B&B Yachts
B&B Yachts have 14 different boat plans you can choose from to find the boat of your desires. Their shop is located along the Bay River in North Carolina where they construct all of the kits and have a 100 foot dock to show off your project once you complete it.
One popular model to check out is their Core Sound 15, as it is the perfect size for those wanting to build a modest size boat for a handful of people on board. Their website features some videos of completed projects and the plans or kits for purchase.
- 14 different models to choose from plus some dinghies
- Various monohull and multihull options
- Friendly customer service with attractive prices
- Might be too many options for some that are indecisive
- Not ideal for those wanting to have a motor sailer
Brooks Boat Designs
Brooks Boat Designs has a handful of options to consider for your next sailboat building project. They are located in Brookline, Maine and give the option to buy the kits or have them build one from scratch for you. They have plenty of knowledge, so do not be shy to ask about modifications or custom features you are looking for.
Depending on your specifics, they can attempt to accommodate some of their plans to help fit your desired outcome. By checking out their site, you can see many examples of their construction in progress and what the boats will look like when completed.
- Offers a variety of kits
- Plans vary around $50 and up, while materials will obviously add more costs
- Some plans can be rowing boats that can convert to sailboats
- Might take a while to hear back from them, as their contact section is a little outdated
- Their plans may not accommodate a ton of extras for your taste
Chase Small Craft
Chase Small Craft offers a simple process for building boats. Their kits are equipped with everything you need and will help save you time than just buying the materials outright and other parts you could need. This is arguably one of the best bang for buck instances if you want to save time and money searching for pieces to your boat.
They are located in Saco, Maine and will ship everything to your home from there. All the necessary materials are included and all you need are the proper tools and working space.
- All-inclusive kits with what you need
- Tons of knowledge on their site for boat building
- Easy process to order and customize
- Complete kits can range over $20,000 for larger boats
- Kits may take up to eight weeks to ship out
Chesapeake Light Craft
You can expect high-quality boat kits from Chesapeake Light Craft . They feature 18 different sailboat kits that vary from eight to 20 feet in length. This should be more than enough to find one for you if you are newer to boat building.
They also have a wide variety of other kits in addition to the sailboat, in the event that you wanted to order a small kayak or paddleboard in addition to your sailboat. The prices vary considerably when considering a small or larger boat, so check the complete list of options to in order to potentially fit your needs.
- Plenty of sailboat offerings to choose from
- Different beautiful hull form options to consider
- Easy to build and perfect for sailing
- Only has basic materials needed for kit, so you may need to purchase other items
- Has epoxy shipping fee no matter if you pick up item
Dudley Dix Yacht Design
Dudley Dix Yacht Design has an extensive list of plywood and single skin sailing boat options. They have plenty of sail plans and kits to consider depending on your goals. These follow a classic look for sailboats, which are aesthetically pleasing.
If you are wanting one to accommodate a small family, they have more than plenty to look through. The cost is not as bad compared to others, but keep in mind that you may need to throw in your own supplies or specific tools to get the job done.
- Plans start at $30 and range up to $7,500 or more for kits
- More than enough of options to consider
- Affordable variety of sailboat offerings
- Might be too many options for those new to sailing
- Most are wood without the use of aluminum or steel
Farrier Marine
If you are in search of a multihull to build, then Farrier Marine is what you need. They offer a unique folding catamaran that is trailerable and give you the option to build it yourself. This not only makes it an appealing option, but anyone can take this multihull boat wherever they want with ease.
It features a thorough construction guide once you receive all of the materials. These also come with stainless steel fasteners and an aluminum mast for high-quality materials. Pricing will vary since you must request which model type you are considering.
- Ability to build a unique catamaran
- In-depth construction guide to help
- Easily handled and trailerable
- Price may be too high
- Limited offerings since only a few multihull options
Glen-L Marine Designs
Building a boat from Glen-L Marine Designs can save you time and money. They feature an easy system to order and receive the kits, as well as an in-depth guide to building them. This is an appealing option compared to most boat kit sellers.
The beauty about Glen-L is that anyone can build these from scratch, so you do not have to be the best boat builder in the world to get it done. They offer guides and helpful insights from their team to point you in the right direction. Plans vary around $15, while kits can range well over $1,000 depending on boat size.
- Nearly 50 designs to choose from
- Complete guide to help anyone build it
- Plenty of price points depending on size
- Might be overwhelming with the amount of options
- Could take a while to get parts since they are popular
John Welsford Boat Designs
John Welsford Boat Designs invites new and veteran boat builders that want a taste of quality small wooden boats. The boat plans are designed to meet your specifications and are catered to your desires.
There are seven sailboat designs to choose from so you do not feel overwhelmed in the process. However, they do not sell kits all the time, so you would need to have the materials or be on the lookout for the best prices when they are available.
- Seven sailboat plans with different sizes
- Quality boat builder and supporting community
- In-depth knowledge provided to you when you order
- Might be too small of boat size
- Kits are not always available
Iain Oughtred
There are plenty of options on the wooden boat store, but you should narrow down your search for Iain Oughtred’s line of sailboat kits and plans. There are 25 different plans to choose from, which should accommodate most everyone looking to build their own boat.
While they do offer some kits, they do not routinely offer sailboat kits. You would need to purchase all of the materials if you are considering one of their sail plans. Keep this in mind if you are considering, as you would need to hunt down the parts yourself.
- 25 different sailboat plans to look through
- Various sizes to contemplate for you sailing needs
- Prices will vary but are not bad compared to market
- No sailboat kits, only plans
- Newer boat builders might find too many options unappealing
Paul Gartside Boat Builder and Designer
Gartside Boats is a boat builder company based in Long Island, New York that showcases a variety of boats from traditional and newer methods of boat building. Within that variety, they have boat plans meant for six to 50 feet in length.
With an abundance of options, you will need to contact them regarding prices and any customizable options. Kits may vary as well, as they typically design in-house and build for you.
- Experienced boat designer that can accommodate with custom plans
- Many options are trailerable
- Can have plans for up to a 50 foot boat
- You will need to contact them for prices
- Customized options may make process more complicated for new boat builders
How Much Does it Cost to Build a Sailboat at Home?
As you have likely already done so, the math between building your own boat and buying one may be a huge difference. Likewise, you may even enjoy the challenge of taking an older boat that is gutted and restoring with parts from a kit to build one new again.
But how much does it cost exactly to build a boat from the comfort of your own garage or workshop? The prices are going to vary dramatically depending on your situation and material needed to get the job done. In addition, the time that it takes to complete this will also vary.
Sail plans are rather inexpensive if you are aiming to build a small boat. These plans allow you to see the workings of the boat design and what you need to build the boat.
Without these plans, you will not know the exact details of the design and it can cause major issues with the boat’s hull or other areas of the boat. Think of these as the backbone or instructions of the boat’s infancy before being built.
Price Per Square Foot
You should assume to pay anywhere between $300 to $600 per square foot if you are interested in building a boat. Buying a kit outright can be a good way to save time, but oftentimes these do not come with everything you need.
Instead, you should try to source as much of the materials at the best price as possible. Thinking ahead is part of the process and you might be able to score a deal at a lumber yard or hardware store for parts.
Boat Designs Matter
The design of the boat will be much different from one boat to the next, regardless if they are the same size in length. If you are pondering boats that range anywhere between 16 and 20 feet, you should factor in the shape of the hull, any rigging, and various appendages.
Prices tend to increase when there are more complexities within the designs. If you are considering a kit with more details than others, you will also have to pay more for the designs on that as well.
Kits Can Differ
It is important to understand that all kits are not going to be the same. As you gander at sailboat kits online to stitch together, you need to thoroughly look over to see if you have everything you need before buying.
It would also be at your advantage to ask the seller if any additional parts or supplies are needed. This may change your dynamic on the kit buying process and you may pass up one for another if it has everything you need. An all-inclusive kit may cost several hundred, if not thousands, of dollars more to have the convenience of everything in the bundle.
Construction Approaches
Some boat plans may require you to have certain tools to get the job done. This means special saws or planers, which the average person simply does not have.
Purchasing specialty tools might be expensive upfront and hard to find depending on what it is. Your best bet would be to check locally for others trying to sell their tools or consider a boat plan that does not require extensive tools to finish the job.
How Long Does it Take to Build a Sailboat?
An easy to build sailboat could take a while to build from scratch. Many different variances come into play that are difficult to pinpoint for everyone. But how long is that exactly and how will your experience play into this?
A fun project to sail in the wind could take you several months to well over a year depending on the boat plan and how big your boat is going to be. In addition, the materials all need to be accounted for prior to starting in the event a hardware store does not have them in stock.
Time Varies
The time that passes for simple boat designs on small sailing vessels can be done in a few weeks. This is assuming you have everything you need and work non-stop around the clock.
Certain complex situations may make the process long, such as the difficulty of working with some materials. If you are a skilled laborer, it may take you half the time compared to a novice. The amount of time it can take will vary on your availability and skill level.
Planning ahead will undoubtedly offer the most time-saving features. It also helps if you can tackle parts of the project at your own pace.
Complexity of Design
The design of the boat may make the construction process longer. For example, it may take you longer to build a catamaran compared to a similar lengthed monohull.
More complex designs might require more materials, therefore making the process a bit longer to complete. Furthermore, you will also need more experience working with difficult designs and that will affect you more as a newbie.
Be sure to manage your expectations well and do not allow yourself to become too stressed over this fun project. If you can, seek expert boat building advice from a local builder or the company you purchased sail plans through.
Quality Materials
The quality of the materials will matter significantly when building a boat and will greatly affect the time it takes to construct it. Handling fiberglass or carbon fiber might require specialty tools, while wood also demands a certain level of craftsmanship.
If you are not skilled at working with the material at hand, it might affect the quality of the build and you may have to go back to fix mistakes. This will definitely add more time to your project, because mistakes are bound to happen with your first project.
To save time, consider adding the tools and materials throughout the year or as often as your budget allows. You may want to try testing your skills on fiberglass or other materials to get a feel for how to work with it.
Related Articles
I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.
by this author
Best Sailboats
Learn About Sailboats
Most Recent
Best Small Sailboat Ornaments
September 12, 2023
Best Small Sailboats With Standing Headroom
December 28, 2023
Important Legal Info
Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.
Similar Posts
Discover the Magic of Hydrofoil Sailboats
December 11, 2023
Best Bluewater Sailboats Under $50K
Hunter Sailboats: Are They Built for Bluewater Cruising?
August 29, 2023
Popular Posts
Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats
Can a Novice Sail Around the World?
Elizabeth O'Malley
June 15, 2022
4 Best Electric Outboard Motors
How Long Did It Take The Vikings To Sail To England?
10 Best Sailboat Brands (And Why)
December 20, 2023
7 Best Places To Liveaboard A Sailboat
Get the best sailing content.
Top Rated Posts
Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. (866) 342-SAIL
© 2024 Life of Sailing Email: [email protected] Address: 11816 Inwood Rd #3024 Dallas, TX 75244 Disclaimer Privacy Policy
- Basic Kayaking Knowledge , Learn
15 Free Boat Plans You Can Build This Week (with PDFs)
Boatbuilding is one of the most ancient forms of craftsmanship still alive today. As long as our ancestors have had a curiosity about exploring open waters, they have been practicing and honing their boatbuilding skills.
To be honest, however, building a boat is no small task. It will require a lot of work and patience to ultimately create a finished product that you are happy with and that is actually seaworthy.
Of course, we have also included a few free boat plans. You can keep in your back pocket for the next time you are asked to build a cardboard boat as part of a contest or lakefront teambuilding adventure.
We hope that these resources help you in your journey to build your own boat!
Photo by SeventyFour via Shutterstock
Free Boat Plans
- The Wanigan
- The Slipper
The Handy Andy
- The Jolly Roger
- The Hobby Kat
The White Duck
- The Sea Midge
The Crazy Cardboard Boat
Why Build Your Own Boat?
Photo by Halsey via Shutterstock
There are a lot of reasons why you should explore building your own boat versus buying a pre-made model. Here is a quick breakdown of the most obvious benefits:
- You will know the ins and outs of your finished boat better than anyone
- It can be a great project to work on with your teenage or even adult children
- You will gain valuable skills molding and shaping wood and other materials
- You can design your boat for your specific needs
- You don’t have to trust the sometimes-questionable manufacturing of mass-produced boats
- You can create a boat that functions as your second home on the water
- You can save money if you source materials mindfully
Of course, most first-time boatbuilders still experience some level of trial-and-error. With patience and perseverance, however, you can craft a one-of-a-kind vessel that has no equal anywhere in the world.
Free Boat Plans You Can Build This Week (with PDFs)
1. the wanigan.
PC Duckworks Boat Builders Supply
The Wanigan boat began as a garvey design, which is one of the older boat plans known to the Americas. Traditionally, these boats were built as work scows and were very popular among American summer camps.
The design itself is very simple, but these boats can carry heavy loads. It can also handle a trolling motor being mounted to the stern so you can cover more ground if you want to use it as a fishing boat.
The creator of this boat plan became aware of some of the downsides of the garvey design, such as the heavier weight that made it less efficient than some other designs. So he combined elements of dory and wanigan designs to create a hybrid.
The main changes include an enlarged beam, tilted lathes to provide a stiffer hull, and knocking off the top strakes to reduce the boat’s overall weight.
The Wanigan text
These additional The Wanigan drawings  may also prove useful for your build process!
2. The Mouse
The Mouse is one of the most compact and nimble boat plans we have found for this list. It is an easy build and also a great boat for two kids or a single teenage paddler.
The original builder began with a one-sheet boat design in an effort to create the lightest and most affordable boat possible. This means it is only suited for calm waters and should not be used in high winds or wavy conditions.
That said, it was built in roughly 12 to 24 hours of work time and doesn’t require a full workshop to construct. The main material that is required for building this boat is quarter-inch plywood. But the builder recommends using one-inch by half-inch pine or something a little sturdier.
The plywood and pine components are held together using a method called ”˜stitch and glue’. This method requires choosing one of the best glues for kayak outfitting , which are typically made of epoxy and glass tape rather than something cheaper like polyurethane.
The Mouse Instructions
Also, here are a few extra useful The Mouse Notes for builders
3. The Slipper
The Slipper is the first of many sailboat plans on our list and it is faster, easier, and cheaper to build than most. It also features a deeper cockpit than many other sailboat designs, which makes it safer for intermediate sailors.
This sailboat plan features dual steering stations so that you can sail from inside or outside of the helm. It also includes a centerboard trunk that hardly intrudes into the cabin at all. So that, it is easier to work around while you are in the cockpit.
The exterior hull and cabin of this sailboat feature a modified dory design using two sheets of plywood ripped to three feet wide before being joined together. The resulting hull is a modified V-shape that reduces drag.
The centerboard of this boat can also be winched up to the level of the top of the cabin or lowered down to alter the draft. This allows you to customize the boat design for a stiffer and more weather-worthy vessel if you need it.
The Slipper was also intentionally designed with an aft cabin that naturally helps to keep the bow pointed into the wind whether you are underway or the boat is anchored in the port.
The Building Slipper
4. The Handy Andy
PC DIY Wood Boat
The Handy Andy is a great little 10-foot portable rowboat for hunting, camping, fishing, and other recreational uses. It is actually the only folding boat design on our list, which makes it best for folks that need the most portable boat plan possible.
This boat features a 42-inch beam and a depth of about 15 inches at the mid-section. It also weighs roughly 80 pounds when assembled and can handle up to three average-sized human passengers.
The design boasts a flat bottom with canvas-bound edges and the primary material used for construction is ⅜-inch marine-grade plywood. Despite its lightweight nature, this rowboat can handle trolling motors or even outboard motors with a maximum of five horsepower.
Once finished, the hull can be folded or unfolded in less than a minute’s time.
This design makes it one of the only boats on this list that can be stored in a truck bed or easily carried by two people to be launched at more remote locations.
5. The Junior
If you are looking for an all-purpose dinghy that can handle almost any use you might imagine, look no further than The Junior free boat plan. It can carry three or four average-sized adults and is much easier to row than a traditional dinghy.
It is also durable enough to be equipped with a small outboard motor. You could even set it up with sailing equipment if you want to use it as a sailing vessel. As we said, this is truly an all-around boat design!
This boat plan requires constructing three frames that will provide the majority of the load-bearing support. The builder recommends using ¾-inch framing with ⅜-inch plywood as the exterior material for this boat build.
Resin glue and flathead screws are also required to hold this boat together. But there is a full list of materials included in the plans we have linked to below. Sticking to that plan should also give you enough leftover materials to construct two six-foot oars for rowing this boat until you install a trolling motor or outboard motor down the line!
6. The Jolly Roger
Channel your inner Captain Morgan when you are following these plans to build your very own Jolly Roger boat. This flat bottom boat design is designed for pond fishing . It can also be a useful yacht dinghy for getting from your dock to a larger vessel anchored offshore.
The plan follows conventional dinghy construction methods but also includes a few modifications that will save you time and energy. The wide design is super stable for boaters of all ages.
The keel, frame, chines, and risers are all cut from ¾-inch oak, ash, or any other trusted hardwood you can get your hands on. For the smaller components, the builder recommends using cedar, cypress, fir, or white or yellow pine.
Because this boat plan is also sturdy enough to handle a small motor, it includes important points for protecting the wooden hull from spark plug damage.
Be careful to follow these guidelines to build the safest boat possible if you imagine installing a motor down the line.
The Jollyroger
7. The Cork
The Cork is another simple rowboat design. This one trends away from the flat bottom plans that we have included thus far. Instead, it features a deeper, V-shaped hull that makes it better suited to more efficient rowing and easier maneuverability.
It can be rowed easily from either seating position and is durable enough to handle up to three average-sized adult passengers. The ends of the boat are identical, which allows for multi-directional rowing.
The list of materials required for this boat plan should cost you between $30 and $50, depending on your location and hardware costs there. The resulting build is lightweight enough for two people to be carried and also to be transported on top of a vehicle .
Inside the boat, the builders use aluminum tubing to secure the struts that hold the seats. This material choice keeps the overall weight of the boat down while still adding the necessary rigidity across the beam of the boat.
8. The Hobby Kat
The Hobie Cat is one of the most iconic and recognizable small sailing vessels ever made. This Hobby Kat plan is your answer to building your own iconic sailboat without spending thousands of dollars.
Your finished boat will be able to handle speeds of up to 20 miles per hour. It will be a super fun vessel for windy days on the lake or bay. The builder was able to construct the hulls, decking, and rudder for this boat while spending little more than $200.
From there, they purchased and installed the mast, boom, sail, and rigging, which brought the total amount spent to roughly $650 (still much less than a name-brand Hobie!). Without the mast and sail, this boat weighs roughly 165 pounds and is constructed using primarily 3/16-inch marine plywood.
You can also elect to build your own mast, boom, and sail if you have the time and skills to do so.
Those elements are not included in this boat plan, but they do offer some recommendations for where to buy these components!
The HobbyKat
9. The Tern
Named after the common seabird found around the world, the Tern is a lightweight and nimble sailboat with a 72 square foot base design. She is made for inland sailing and planes very well in moderate breezes.
The hull design also provides minimal water resistance and the small floor plan makes this boat easier for intermediate sailors to handle. Even though it offers a small footprint, this boat is sturdy enough to handle up to four adult passengers.
One of the best things about this boat plan is that it can be built almost entirely by using only common hand tools.
Of course, you can speed things up if you have power tools and you are skilled enough to use them correctly.
The Tern boat plan includes a 20-foot mast, but you can shorten that length if you desire. The plan includes a complete list of materials and step-by-step instructions on how to plane and assemble each element.
10. The Falcon
As you might expect from its name alone, the Falcon is an incredibly speedy sailboat for its size. It boasts a 14-foot centerboard and can handle two to four passengers, depending on its size and weight.
In tests of the original build, the creators claim that this boat out-distanced many Snipe and Comet sailing vessels as well as pacing evenly alongside longer 18-foot sailboats. When finished, your boat will have a six-foot beam and a total weight of roughly 475 pounds.
For the main framing components, they recommend using white oak and plywood will be the main material used in the hull construction. The hull features a V-shaped that was inspired by larger schooners.
The Falcon is best suited to sailing on bays, lakes, and wide rivers. It is also a boat plan with just under 120 square feet of deck space and it is a great build for amateur craftsmen and sailors.
11. The White Duck
The White Duck is a flat-bottomed rowboat with a total length of 13’6” and a four-foot beam. The cockpit is approximately 15 inches deep all the way around and this boat can handle up to five passengers while maintaining buoyancy and stability.
When fully constructed, it will weigh roughly 200 pounds, but the final weight will depend on the type of lumber you choose for your build. This boat plan features plywood planking over solid wooden frames.
The White Duck is built with a pointed bow that cuts nicely through the water. The flat stern of this boat design will make it easy to attach a small outboard motor with a maximum of six horsepower.
As you might expect from its name, this rowboat is a great option for duck hunting trips. That being said, it is a highly versatile craft that can also be used for pond fishing or casual rowing on your nearby lake.
12. The Sea Midge
The Sea Midge is one of the smallest rowboats on our list and it is ideally suited for one average-sized rower or two small paddlers. It is only about 8 feet in length and offers a 52-inch beam at its widest point.
The Midge’s small dimensions make her ideal for navigating narrower creeks and streams. With an approximate weight of 62 pounds, she is easy to maneuver on the water and can also be much more easily transported than some of the larger boat plans on our list
The Seamidge
13. The Zephyr
The Zephyr is a compact and speedy dinghy sailboat that measures roughly 14 feet long and approximately five feet across. This boat style was originally developed for safely crossing the English Channel. This means it can stand up well in rough waters.
When finished, it is also light enough to be transported on a small trailer or on top of a larger vehicle.
The boat plan calls for using hemlock or fir for the framing and oak or Douglas fir for the keel and chines.
14. The Gypsy
The Gypsy is a small cruising sailboat that is meant to be equipped with an outboard motor for powered locomotion. The original design resulted in an incredibly seaworthy vessel that logged more than 6,000 nautical miles in her lifetime.
It includes a comfortable cabin that makes it well-suited for multi-day sailing adventures. This boat plan includes improvements on the original design that will help you build an extremely durable and long-lasting sailboat.
The Gypsy boat design will help you construct a vessel that can handle a motor up to 25 horsepower so that you can enjoy cruising speeds of up to nine miles per hour.
While it may require a bit more of an investment in time and money, it will also help you produce one of the best boats you can build with a free boat plan!
15. The Crazy Cardboard Boat
PC Saint Dominic Catholic School
Finally, let’s talk about a crazy cardboard boat plan that you can build in less than a day. This is a great boat plan to bookmark for your next teambuilding project so that you can earn bragging rights with your coworkers.
The plan calls for using 1.5 sheets of cardboard. But you can use the remaining half sheet to build your own boat paddle if you want to get creative.
Triple-thick cardboard is best for this boat plan. But you can always double up thinner sheets if that is all you can find.
These plans include an easy-to-follow diagram for marking, cutting, and folding the cardboard sheets to create the hull of your boat. From there, it calls for using contact cement and construction adhesive to seal the edges and corners.
If you are looking to save a little money on this build you could also use duct tape and then wrap the entire design in plastic sheeting to provide waterproof qualities.
Overall, this build is one of the cheapest and easiest on our list. It is also a great project for hot summer camp days on the lake or river!
15 Free Boat Plans You Can Build This Week (with PDFs) – Final Thoughts
Photo by Alexandra Soloviova via Shutterstock
We hope that you now have a couple of free boat plans to inspire you to begin your own construction project.
Don’t hesitate to check out YouTube for some useful boat-building videos when you are getting into the nitty-gritty of these build processes!
Enjoyed 15 Free Boat Plans You Can Build This Week (with PDFs)? Share it with your friends so they too can follow the Kayakhelp journey.
Share on pinterest.
Peter Salisbury
Pete is the Owner of KayakHelp.com. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, he grew up kayaking, fishing, sailing, and partaking in outdoor adventures around the Great Lakes. When he’s not out on the water, you can find him skiing in the mountains, reading his favorite books, and spending time with his family.
RC Sailboats
An overview of radio controlled sail boats and a brief explanation of scale model sailboats, semi scale rc sport, and rc racing sailing yachts. kits, rtr and scratch built..
RC sailboats can be divided up in three main categories:
- RC Sport Sail
- RC Sailing Yachts (for racing)
- RC Scale Sail
RC sport sail
Most kits and RTR (ready-to-run) model RC sail boats are best categorized as RC sport scale. This category is a happy medium between full-blown scale models and RC racing yachts.
Some have become so widely distributed that new racing classes has been formed around them. Good examples are Graupner's Micro Magic and Kyosho's Fairwind.
They are usually semi-scale of modern cruising yachts or made to resemble America’s cup sailboats.
The lower cost models come with ABS hulls, whereas the higher end models come with more durable fiberglass hulls. Drop keels, aluminum masts and Dacron sails are most common.
RC racing yachts
If you want to get into RC yacht racing there are a number of classes to choose from. Each country has a governing body ( American Model Yachting Association (AMYA) in the USA, Model Yachting Association in the UK) under the International Model Yacht Racing Union.
As with full size regattas, RC model yacht racing face some of the same issues. Entry rules for competitions typically follow depending on if the class is Open or Closed Design.
Open or Construction Class
What these classes have in common is that the boats are not identical - instead the rules are made up like a mathematical formula. The good thing that brings is that the challenge is three-fold – design, construction and sailing the course.
The disadvantage is in that the rules for some classes can be complicated. Some classes have gained in popularity precisely because the rules fro previously established classes were so hard to understand.
Examples of some popular open design model yacht classes:
- 6 Metre - M6R
- 10 rater – R10r
- 36" (36-inch)
Closed Design or One-design Class
All entries have to be the same design. Some are kits from a single manufacturer others are open to home built model boats.
- Soling 1 Meter
- Micro Magic - Graupner
- Fairwind - Kyosho
RC scale sail
We're talking about scale model sail boats that actually use its sails as the main means of propulsion. RC scale sail is called minisail in continental Europe. The vast majority of sailing scale model boats is scratch built. There are a few kits - Billings Collin Archer RS-1 comes to mind.
The prevailing problem with scaling a sailboat is that stability doesn’t scale linearly with size. The result is that model boats will always be significantly less stable than the boat or ship it was modeled after. Left as is, it may have detrimental effects on the model’s sea keeping abilities. There are ways to minimize the effect.
A smallish boat built to a large scale is more stable than a large ship to a small scale. For instance, say you can only transport a model 1m long. Building a model of an 8m cruising yacht at 1:8 scale will be more stable than a model of the USS Constitution at 1:48 scale. This is true even if they end up weighing the same and being the same length. I bet the yacht will be a much better sailer too.
Bigger is always better too, when it comes to scale RC sailboats. Try and build the biggest model you can get away with. A larger model will be more forgiving on construction techniques, materials and the weight of components. The finished model will also be faster, a better sailer and handle stronger winds than if it was built smaller.
Making considerable effort to build light is always a god habit. The higher up a part or component is located, the more important this becomes. For instance, rigging components need to be light weight.
Other factors are beam and draft (width and depth for landlubbers). A wider and deeper hull will naturally be more stable than thin and shallow.
There are two tricks to increase the stability of model boats artificially:
Add a drop keel
By adding a drop keel you can bring the center of gravity down while adding profile area. The greater under-water profile helps against drifting sideways. All sailboats drift downwind some, because the surface water moves with the wind. The lower boundary-layers of a body of water are influenced less by the wind than layers closer to the surface. Therefore, the deeper any extension of the hull is, the less drift.
Typically a boat with a drop-keel also needs a larger rudder. A good guideline is to make the rudder area 10-12% of the total submerged hull profile.
Extent the hull below the waterline
Some builders rather build the boat hull slightly out of scale than add a drop keel. The most bang-for-the-buck is to deepen the hull. Same rule apply about the rudder (rudder area = 10-12% of total submerged profile). You could technically make the hull wider, but the effect is not as great.
Any change in the submerged hull profile need to maintain the same geometric center to balance the center of effort on the sails. Naturally, if you know what you are doing, the sail and rig can be modified also.
A Final Word on Scale RC Sailboats
Generally stay away from lateen rigs, multi-hull, centerboard designs and square riggers, at least until you have become an experienced RC sailboats captain and/or builder.
Return from RC Sailboats to Radio Controlled Boats
Return to Homepage
Facebook Twitter |
Would you prefer to share this page with others by linking to it?
- Click on the HTML link code below.
- Copy and paste it, adding a note of your own, into your blog, a Web page, forums, a blog comment, your Facebook account, or anywhere that someone would find this page valuable.
- Plans Store
- Model Boat Books
- Model Boats Intro
- Building Materials
- Make a Hull
- Plastic Kits
Radio Control
- US Battleships
- Torpedo Boats
- Model Boats Q&A
- Model Ship Gallery
- What's New?
- Privacy Policy
By Petter Blix
Copyright 2009-2018 Building-Model-Boats.com
Trademarks belong to their respective owners
All Rights Reserved
Let's create
A lasting memory, custom sail boat, half hull & half model.
Building Exact Scale Custom Models
Since 1989, Seacraft Classics provides museum quality custom made boat models in any size and any scale.
Seacraft Classics
Boat manufacturers, satisfied customers.
Discover Howard Learned, Seacraft Classics founder
Discover our latest custom models by visiting our Gallery
Provide an unique feeling
Offer the perfect gift.
Are you looking for a gift for the Boat Owner who has everything ? We have the answer.
What you receive
Perfect colors, boat and port name, perfect scale, dedicated delivery case, display case.
Testimonials
What our clients say.
It is interesting
Recent blog posts.
- September 10, 2023
- Boats and ships
Seacraftclassics: Educating Maritime Enthusiasts with Fine Boat Replicas
Sail away with our stunning schooner replicas, preserving nautical heritage: boat replicas by seacraftclassics, perfecting your model’s sails: the art of rigging | seacraftclassics, most viewed posts.
- Talk about a venue with a view! This Quebec couple had the absolute wedding of …
- Everything You Need to Know About Trading in Your Boat
- Wishing all the IMOCA Globe Series teams and skippers competing in the Vendée-Ar…
- Happy 4th of July! Wishing you all a happy holiday weekend on the water with you…
- The training continues for Alex and the crew. In case you missed it, we won’t b…
Our latest custom models
- model 1329 1329 products
- Custom Sail boats 218 218 products
- Custom Power Boats 399 399 products
- Custom Half Models 532 532 products
- Custom Desk Models 92 92 products
- Accessories
- Built Boats
- Information
- Rowing Boats
- Sailing Boats
- Motor Boats
- Surf and Paddle Boards
Sailing Boat Plans
Madness Pacific Proa
A lightweight Pacific proa for fast cruising or daysailing.
More information
Tenderly Dinghy
A traditional-looking 10-foot clinker dinghy for rowing, sailing and motoring that is stable, handsome and easy to build.
Eastport Pram
A pretty, light, tough, roomy and easy to build 7 foot 9 inch pram dinghy that can be rowed or sailed.
Nesting Eastport Pram
An easy to build rowing and sailing pram dinghy that splits into two nesting sections for compact storage.
A 15 foot clinker style double ended family boat that can be rowed, sailed or motored.
Skerry Raid
A small, decked, wooden cruising boat for coastal expeditions by sail and oars.
Lighthouse Tender
A stable but fast double-ended rowing or sailing boat based on a traditional Maine Peapod.
Northeaster Dory
A 17 foot clinker dory for solo or tandem rowing or sailing.
Southwester Dory
A lightweight beach cruising and expedition boat for sailing, rowing and motoring, which can also be built as a motor launch without the sailing rig.
The Duo is a simple-to-build rowing and sailing dinghy that can nest for easy storage. It makes a good tender as well as a fun sailing dinghy.
Jimmy Skiff II
A stable, flat-bottomed rowing and sailing boat that also handles well under motor, for family outings, fishing and day sailing.
Goat Island Skiff
A simple lightweight sailing boat with excellent performance.
PassageMaker
An 11 foot 7 inch clinker style pram dinghy that performs beautifully when rowed, sailed or motored.
PassageMaker Take-Apart
An 11 foot 7 inch clinker style pram dinghy that can be nested to save space.
Pixie Beach Catamaran
The Pixie is a fun car-toppable beach catamaran that sails well with one or two crew and is popular among people who are new to sailing catamarans but who are not that interested in racing.
A fast-sailing 15 foot cabin cruiser with a dry and commodious interior.
Autumn Leaves Canoe Yawl
A modern wooden canoe yawl for engineless coastal cruising by sail and oars, designed to be affordably built by an amateur.
Faering Cruiser
A serious rowing and sailing boat for coastal cruising, with a small cabin aft.
Nesting Expedition Dinghy
A very compact sailing beach cruiser that can be nested in three sections for storage in a corner of a garage.
Mbuli Pacific Proa
Plans for a very light and fast Pacific proa beach cruiser.
A versatile nesting dinghy for day sailing and camp cruising with a comfortable double berth.
Outrigger Junior
A finely-proportioned and lively sailing canoe with a huge lateen sail for lots of speed.
Quattro 14 Beach Catamaran
A lightweight single-trapeze beach catamaran for racing that is easy to build.
Quattro 16 Beach Catamaran
A high performance twin-trapeze racing catamaran that is lightweight and easy to build.
Strike 15 Trimaran
The Strike 15 is a high-performance racing trimaran with folding outriggers designed to be easy to sail by older or less experienced sailors and easy to launch from the beach.
Strike 16 Trimaran
The Strike 16 is a dry, comfortable trimaran for four-person day-sailing or two-person weekending.
Strike 18 Trimaran
The Strike 18 is a dry, comfortable trimaran for family day-sailing with an optional, removable, cabin top to convert it into a pocket cruiser.
Tryst Trimaran
A light and stable 10 ft trimaran that is very easy and fun to sail and can nest for compact storage.
Zest Racing Dinghy
The Zest is a single-handed racing dinghy with a plywood hull and comfortable sitting-out wings.
Beth Sailing Canoe
A light sailing canoe combining a traditional rig with a high speed hull.
Kombi Sailing Canoe
A truly dual-purpose wooden canoe for exciting sailing and family paddling.
Viola Sailing Canoe
A lightweight plywood sailing canoe with the performance and stability of a good sailing dinghy.
A low-cost sailing dinghy that is easy to build and fun to sail for clubs, regattas and sailing lessons.
A pretty little demountable trimaran designed for speed and easy handling by one or two people on lakes, rivers and bays.
TriRAID 560s
A light and fast adventure trimaran for 1-2 people designed for raid competitions.
Sailing Outriggers
Outrigger floats to turn a canoe or kayak into a fast sailing trimaran.
Drop-in Outrigger Plans
Light and easily removable outrigger floats that turn a canoe or kayak into a formidable sailing boat or a stable fishing platform.
Mini Drop-in Outrigger Plans
Small outriggers for a sailing canoe, to aid stability for learners and for extra safety for more adventurous sailing.
Drop-in Canoe Sailing Rig Plans
A simple lug rig that can be added to an ordinary canoe or kayak to add the ability to sail.
- Fyne Boat Kits — Old Cooperage Yard, Gatebeck, Kendal, Cumbria LA8 0HW
- Telephone: +44 (0)1539 567 148
- Email: info [at] fyneboatkits.co.uk
Copyright © Fyne Boat Kits
Important Registration Information - 2024 Registration
Build Your Own Plank Constructed Pond Yacht
A vintage marblehead-class pond yacht designed for radio control..
While growing up in western Pennsylvania, Bruce Richter spent countless hours in his dad’s workshop learning the ropes, building models, and making sawdust before getting sidetracked with garage bands, sports, and college. The urge to build returned around the time he and his wife Jan moved to New York City, although he quickly realized apartment living wasn’t exactly conducive to woodworking. The planets aligned when he discovered WoodenBoat School and Kerbs Boathouse in Central Park, home to over one hundred radio-control sailboats. Since then, Bruce took WoodenBoat School’s pond yacht construction course six times and served as former instructor Thom McLaughlin’s assistant before taking over as lead instructor a few years ago. Bruce has earned several national craftsmanship awards for the Vintage Marblehead RC sailboats he built at WBS. He is former Commodore of the 100-plus-year-old Central Park Model Yacht Club, has served as Class Coordinator of the US VMYG Vintage Marblehead fleet, is designer/art director of the vintage group’s publication The Model Yacht, and occasionally builds guitars. Following a career as a writer/creative director in major New York City advertising agencies and as president/executive creative director of his own marketing services firm, Bruce and wife Jan are beginning their next chapter in life as Blue Hill, Maine transplants.
This course is appropriate for students with some knowledge and experience. Basic knowledge and use of hand tools is required for most shop courses. Basic knowledge and ability to sail is required for most waterfront courses.
This course involves a low level of activity throughout the week including: occasional standing and working, seating is usually available, working on your own project at your own pace is common.
This is a six-day course ending Saturday
Other Sessions: September 1-7
Pond Yacht I: $385 (Includes CNC cut molds, strongback, keelson, planking, fin, and rudder.) Pond Yacht II: $169 (Includes materials to finish the boat other than sails, fittings and electronics.) Pond Yacht III: $35 (Shop supplies to help you continue your project.)
In this course each student will begin the construction of his/her own pond sailboat using the plank on frame process. This practice is similar to those used in building full-sized boats and allows for a flowing hull form that is beautiful on display and swift on the water. The course boat NORUMBEGA was designed by former instructor Thom McLaughlin. The class of this boat is known as Vintage Marblehead (VM) and is still actively sailed today under the guidance of the U.S. Vintage Model Yacht Group. The Marblehead class of small boat originated in 1932 using minimal design requirements of 50″ LOA and 800 square inches of sail. When fully rigged the boat is over 7′ tall, which makes it quite impressive from shore. The boat can be easily dismantled for transport. Construction of this pond yacht will pleasantly challenge and inform the builder. While group and one-on-one instruction will take place daily, students will also make decisions based on blueprints and developing an eye for form. During this week, the boat will be planked, faired, and the fin and rudder will be fabricated. Bruce will also discuss the steps that follow to complete the boat—decking, rigging, electronic installation, and painting.
Students who have started construction of their VM model in previous years at WoodenBoat School are also welcome to participate in this course to finish their boat. This week will be an excellent opportunity for further guidance. It will also provide inspiration to those individuals just beginning their boat and to view firsthand the final steps in construction.
This course is appropriate for students with some knowledge and experience. Basic knowledge and use of hand tools is required for most shop courses.
“Bruce Richter was an excellent instructor. He taught the pond yacht course in a knowledgeable, caring, and professional manner.”
T.S., Wilbraham, Massachusetts
“Bruce Richter taught a great course. I liked that he checked our work each evening and made note of our mistakes to correct the next day. He pulled together regular meetings to discuss theory. I especially enjoyed the pond yacht history lesson! Great teaching skills. Great personality and a sense of humor.”
J.J., Phoenix, Maryland
Register For This Course
Courses fill quickly, so don't delay if this is a course you want to take.
Related Courses
Woodcarving, carving name boards, introduction to woodworking.
Boat Plans, Patterns and Supplies For the Amateur Boat Builder!
- Boat Plans Catalog – 300 Boats You Can Build!
- Boatbuilding Supplies & Epoxy
- Inboard Hardware
- Electrical Design Plans
- Books, DVD’s & Audio
- Boat Trailer Plans
- Raptor® Fastenings & Tools
- Glen-L RV Plans
- Gift Certificates
- Boatbuilder Blogs
- Boatbuilder Galleries
- Newsletter Archives
- Customer Photos Archives
- Where Do I Start…
- About Our Plans & Kits
- Boatbuilder Forum
- Boatbuilder Gatherings
- Boatbuilding Methods
- Featured Design on TV’s NCIS
- Our Boats in Action
Boat Plans Catalog – 300 Boats You Can Build!
“Building boats from Glen-L plans is simple and straight forward…I honestly have never run into a problem, unless it was of my own making. Follow Glen-L’s plans and you can’t go wrong.” Dr. Norman Cove, Bahamas
“Boat building is one of the few pursuits where utilization of the end product is as rewarding as its construction.” Marc Bourassa, Wilmington, MA (built the Power Skiff and 2 Kidyaks)
With Glen-L proven plans & kits, building your own boat can be a reality. Choose one of the categories below, click on a boat for the listing of items available plus more info and photos. Simple as that… get started today!
If you know the boat design name, use our Alphabetical Design Index
Design Characteristics – Boat drawing with all parts listed.
Order a Hard-copy of the Catalog
Click here for more information about our plans and kits.
IMAGES
COMMENTS
Building model boats explained: Learn how to build boat and ship models from plans or kits; static or radio controlled; sail, electric power or steam.
An introduction to building model boats - here is how to get started making your own RC or static model ship from scratch of from a kit - from wood, plastic, or paper.
You can build your own sailboat from wood. To do so, you'll need: Wood for the boat's hull and deck (about ¾ inch thick). Plywood for the boat's keel and mast (about ½ inch thick). Fiberglass cloth to make a fiberglass hull that is stiffer than wood. It should be cut into 2-inch wide strips with an overlapping seam in the middle of each ...
Starting Point for Scratch-Built Ship Model Building All the the plans offered on The Model Shipwright and The Model Shipwright blog are available on this site in high-resolution files. The images on the blog posting are linked directly to the page here with the downloadable files, or you can search from this page by ship type, ship name, or the historical period in which it was built. We put ...
Model Boat Kits and Ship Models Kit for all your ship model building needs. Kits from, Amati, Billings, Artesania, Corel, Mantua and more.
Look for a model to purchase. There are many different models, styles and types of model boat kits available for purchase. If you are new to model boat building, you should spend some time finding a model ship kit that interests you. Purchasing a kit is one of the easiest ways for beginners to get into the hobby. Have fun and find a model that you want to build to get started.
If you want to build a boat, we have what you need. Chesapeake Light Craft is your source for boat kits , kayak kits , boat plans, and boatbuilding materials. Our original, award-winning boat designs include kayaks , canoes , rowing boats, dinghies, and sailboats. More than 40,000 CLC boats have been built from kits and plans.
Building a wooden model ship. Beginners guide. This part shows some of the tools you need and unboxing. Help me outhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/jimstein
Welcome! My name is Bob Hunt and I build model ships for a hobby. I've been building these wonderful models for over 23 years now. I want to share with you a very detailed set of instructions on how to build a fairly simple "Plank on Frame" model ship.
An easy-to-build, eye-catching, high-performance sailboat Who hasn't dreamed of a little wooden sailboat with a beautiful canvas cover? The idea for this project is a child's dream. Sailing on a regular basis in "scale 1", we had the idea of having fun by sailing two boats to race in our "spare time".
Free Sailboat Plans for the backyard home builder, build your own wooden sailboat using these simple plywood designs.
Buying a sailboat can be expensive, but building your own can save you money. So what are sailboats you can build from home?
Complete pre-cut kits for building your own wooden sailing boat including dinghies, cabin cruisers, catamarans, trimarans and proas.
Why Build Your Own Boat? Photo by Halsey via Shutterstock There are a lot of reasons why you should explore building your own boat versus buying a pre-made model. Here is a quick breakdown of the most obvious benefits:
RC sailboats - an overview of radio controlled sail boats and a brief explanation of Scale Model Sailboats, semi scale RC Sport, and RC Racing Sailing Yachts. Kits, RTR and Scratch built.
We employ the latest technology in building custom motor boat, custom sail boat, custom desk model and custom half hull Ask for your free quote
Plans for building your own wooden sailing boat from scratch including dinghies, cabin cruisers, catamarans, trimarans and proas.
In this course each student will begin the construction of his/her own pond sailboat using the plank on frame process. This practice is similar to those used in building full-sized boats and allows for a flowing hull form that is beautiful on display and swift on the water.
With Glen-L proven plans & kits, building your own boat can be a reality. Choose one of the categories below, click on a boat for the listing of items available plus more info and photos. Simple as that… get started today! If you know the boat design name, use our Alphabetical Design Index
Whether you're a student, a hobbyist, or a professional, finding the right software is the key first step to designing a boat. However, with such a wide range of programs available, you need to make sure you choose the best boat design software for you.
Customize your fishing boat with our Build Your Own Boat Tool. Select boat type and choose between model, color, motor, and other features to find the right fit.
Here's the result of our experimentation: a simple and worthy pond sailer that's rigged and scaled like a real yacht. You can build it in a weekend using readily available materials and tools.
Are you interested in building your own incredible model boat? We cover everything in our boat building eBook. Get into radio control sailing with this great resource.
An ITSM maturity model offers a framework that organizations can use to assess and enhance their IT Service Management practices.This model measures the effectiveness and efficiency of IT processes, providing a clear roadmap for growth. Organizations apply these models to evaluate their current IT Service Management capabilities, identify areas that need improvement, and ensure alignment with ...
View the latest 2024 Biden Trump Presidential forecast predictions and create your own 2024 election prediction map. Sponsored content. Decision Desk HQ and The Hill's ultimate hub for polls, predictions, and election results. ... (presumptive or official) and the relaunch of our model while we take the needed time to collect and input the ...
GPT-4o fine-tuning is available today to all developers on all paid usage tiers (opens in a new window).. To get started, visit the fine-tuning dashboard (opens in a new window), click create, and select gpt-4o-2024-08-06 from the base model drop-down. GPT-4o fine-tuning training costs $25 per million tokens, and inference is $3.75 per million input tokens and $15 per million output tokens.
"We believe in Harris and Walz," the statement continued. "Our brother Bobby's decision to endorse Trump today is a betrayal of the values that our father and our family hold most dear.