Building this house boat might be more than I bargained for (Boat Build Episode 2)

I (barely) started the tiny house boat build and I'm already discovering it's a whole different beast than the bus. Get your own tiny boat build plans: www.roydesignedthat.com/
Roy's channel: / @roydesignedthat
Instagram: / thebirbiebus
Watch next: • Mini Workshop Build (t...
Boat Build Series: • House Boat Build Serie...
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[@keokigray4199]

Bravery is being afraid of something and doing it anyway. Sail on . . . !

[@albertalakeland]

Plans like this usually have a detailed materials list. I recommend reaching out to the boat plan seller.

[@traviskinchen2265]

The definition of courage is to be afraid, and then to get the task done anyway. Never being afraid is not courage, it's dangerous and pathological. You are brave. It's inspiring. Thanks :)

[@francrivera1072]

Rule number one is organized your work place first to avoid moving your materia several times. Also make some time of wood organizer that you can be move.

[@grey_piffle]

for around $20 US, you can get a panel / plywood carrier. it hooks onto the sheet and lets you carry it without all the fuss.

[@EmmaBuildsBirbie]

What?? This is life-changing information

[@alanhat5252]

​@@EmmaBuildsBirbiethere are several designs, some squeeze the top of the sheet to lift, some fit the bottom, have a good look round before you choose & maybe get a couple of different ones. I've always liked the ones that grab the top because there's less to store when not in use but carrying big sheets can sometimes be awkward.

[@davidalexander4043]

Emma you're the Jack of all trades your bus was great now a boat you will do a great job. you have focus

[@patriciaharkin1571]

You say you're not brave and that you're scared of everything .... but you are facing your fears and building this boat - that my girl is bravery! You got this. 😊😊

[@EmmaBuildsBirbie]

💙 thank you!

[@lardo666]

Dear Emma - please get yourself a decent dust mask. Marine ply is hardwood cores and 'interesting' glue - don't inhale much of it.... Some eye protection and maybe some steel toecap boots might make it easier The wheel looks 'real'. At 13:47 we see the centre hole in the brass - and there's a keyway at 1 o clock. That's to transfer the force to a central shaft on the steering gear. Ornaments would likely omit this feature. You will want to varnish it with a few more coats - it's going to be handled constantly! Good luck!

[@TheMyllymaa]

When building with plywood, epoxy and fiberglass, you should have enough slack on each glued connection, so that you can get enough glue in between of those. Also, in corner joints, you can easily hide some imperfections behind epoxy fillet. Nice project you have!

[@kirkpennock3770]

Linda Rhondstat album, definitely a classic.

[@tableshaper4076]

Keep the router, thats not too big. This will be very entertaining to watch i'm sure.

[@lukekao8136]

FYI, they sell wood at Lowes and Menards as well, not just Home Depot or Lumber Yards.

[@waynepeterson1061]

Hi Emma. Your boat build is quite the undertaking. I will be watching intensely. Having spent 25 years of my working career working with fiberglass, especially in conjunction with its application to plywood, I am happy to offer any advice on questions you might have. Not knowing the size of the hull, just want you to know from the get-go that to use polyester resins, which are what are used to saturate the fiberglass material; be it cloth, matt, or roving, requires close to room temperature, 70° F, for the resins to cure properly. Also, with the application of resins on the exterior of a surface, such as plywood, the resins need to contain a surfacing agent, commonly referred to as wax, to allow the resins to cure dry to the touch, as opposed to tacky to the touch. Feel free to ask me any questions you might have. I enjoyed the bus build and know the boat build will be exciting to see.

[@RJMSINCR]

Good on you for offering advice on glassing techniques...that is probably going to be the most important skill she must have, and the most difficult to learn how to do properly.

[@juliedana8190]

Absolutely love your fearlessness and your spirit! Got about halfway through your bus build videos - and you were suddenly selling it!! 😮 wish I could've bought it!! Love your new project, I'm sure you'll do great! Thought I'd mention, since cit seems you don't have many tools, and there's a lot of wood in this project...this is the perfect time if year to get rechargeable tools, like Ryobi or DeWalt. Awesome deals! I spent about $1,000 2 years ago and got a miter saw, table saw, drill, air nailer, sander, jigsaw, flashlight, charging station and I think about 7 batteries. Not a bad deal - they've all been great. Good luck on your boat, I'll be keeping up with you on this project!! Can't wait to see how it all works out!!!

[@mscarlarn]

Girl! I thought when you said you were building a boat that you meant remodeling a boat. NOT BUILDING A DANG BOAT! You amaze me. I understand the being scared of doing something. I the same way. Just still do it. I have never watched someone build a boat. Xoxo

[@dougintothesunset]

I remember when you were scared of power tools. You've come a long way. 🎉🎊 That wheel is the best. Thanks for sharing Emma! 🙂

[@samueljock7291]

houseboat life is the best ....i lived 3 years on lake texhoma.... i plan getting on another houseboat soon and finding another great lake.

[@michaelsasylum]

I hear Norris Lake is quite nice.

[@brockvagis1657]

Hey Emma I used to restore boats when I lived in Florida and for a wood hull before you paint it you should coat the outside with West epoxy or it won't be water proof water will eventually soak through paint and into the wood with out the epoxy barrier

[@daviddixon8778]

Regarding you being scared by everything, the difference in you is you don’t allow the fear to stop your forward progress! Which is what people (me included) admire. The rest of us are sitting here watching you do things that we are actually scared to get up and do, but not you!!!

[@martinmoss317]

That Bosch router is excellent and versatile, shame to return it. The smaller ones are palm routers - less power to cut. With a router you have to consider the rotation direction - watch some videos. you can use 8 x4 insulation as a surface to cut your plywood on to break down large sheets. It's safer than using the raise saw horses. I strongly urge you to consider a track saw - kreg makes one that will fit your current circular saw If you can't afford a dedicated track saw. Don't forget your safety glasses especially with routers.

[@photome1224]

The router you bought is exactly what you want for pattern work!

[@chaosplan]

Agree!

[@EmmaBuildsBirbie]

I worried I won't be able to handle the size!

[@photome1224]

I get that. A router can be very intimidating. And a palm router definitely have their place. But the larger router will actually give you more control. Its weight and size plus two hands on it make it more stable. Best of luck to you, I'm sure whichever way you go, you'll make it work. P.S. being a little scared is always good when using power tools. It helps to keep you from getting complacent and lazy. Thats when bad stuff happens.

[@alanhat5252]

​@@EmmaBuildsBirbieas the operator your job is to keep the base flat on the workpiece & that's easier with the bigger tool, the router pulls itself through the wood following the guide.

[@tracym2164]

I love that you are willing to tackle this project. Being scared is part and parcel of getting out of your comfort zone and that ,in itself, requires courage!

[@scottjohnson1085]

As many have already said, courage isn't the absence of fear, but being afraid and doing it anyway. Lumber yards are a great resource if you can find someone willing to help fill in the blanks. Again I'm sure a ridiculous amount of people have offered, but consider me a resource if you're ever stuck. I run a large manufacturing yard in Vegas. And it's okay if you don't.

[@paulwebber1657]

I am surprised the plans didn’t come with a list of supplies and materials needed for each step. Most lumber yards are very helpful if you don’t’ T go first thing in the morning when the pros shop

[@bryans8656]

I really appreciate your honesty, even though I think you sometimes put yourself down unnecessarily.

[@raw123yt]

GOOD start. I have built several small boats and own larger ones. The best approach is to not look at the whole project, just concentrate on the part you are actually working on. That way you are just building a whole bunch of little projects.

[@EmmaBuildsBirbie]

Doing my darndest to keep this mindset 🤞

[@user-lk2cj2qs1d]

@@EmmaBuildsBirbie Think of the boat as building boxes than a boat There is no V shape bow to deal with, etc

[@GreatOldOne]

Yarrr… Cap’n Emma off the starboard bow. 🥰

[@murrayhunt765]

Routers are the tools that scare me the most… and I’ve been woodworking for years. Bigger is better in many ways because, like the one you got. Larger ones often have good handles that keep your hands far away from the bit and make it much easier to control. There was another comment about saw horses, and I agree. You need a really stable surface for your plywood and template. I have used palm routers successfully, and I’ve pooched some material with them too. The only time I almost hurt myself with a router was with a little palm router. (One handing it ‘cause… you know. 🙈) Hearing protection is something else you’ll want with a router they can be really loud and hearing loss and tinnitus is no fun. Looking forward to your journey with this build. 👍

[@themikeh1961]

Emma, two things. I think that you did get the right size router for the type of work you're doing. If you're going to be routing a lot of 3/8 or thicker wood, I think you need a more powerful router than the little single-hand types. Those are for more like trimming 1/8 inch material, and stuff like that. Also, check out what a "plunge router" does, in case you think you might need that. Lastly, do you know what a "track saw" is? If you don't plan on having a table saw, you might want to look at a few videos on how to use a track saw. They're like a skill saw, but you lay a metal track down on the sheet of wood and the saw follows the track. Anyway, good luck. I'm pretty sure you got this.👍

[@HeyMichaelLeo]

13:15 you will be glad you didn't get a smaller router, please be careful with Routers, always clamp down the piece you are working on, and replace those shitty horses with some good ones.

[@stevehanson4139]

Congratulations on your new project- I've never built a boat but I've built lots of other stuff. I'd recommend you visit your local Harbor Freight and pick up at least 4 LED shop light for you garage (6 would be better)- it is very hard to do good work in the dark. I'd also suggest you look at a portable garage (a big tarp with a frame) while your there to store your tools, supplies and materials in next to your single garage, as the boat gets bigger the garage will get smaller. I'm guessing your still in the mountain west and winter is coming, snow and dark is in your future. Good luck, I'll be watching and cheering you on.

[@alanhat5252]

LED lights strobe when running from AC which can make rotating things look motionless. If you're going to use LEDs always use battery ones!

[@malikdigger4544]

Captain Emma is in progress on building her wonderful idea of houseboat.

[@jacquitabeddo6621]

Bravery is not the absence of fear it is the actions taken in spite of scary circumstances.

[@withazee66]

hehe. I have the same mug! I call it THE mug because after I got it as a Christmas gift last year, I saw it everywhere on TV. It was uncanny. Then I didn't see it again until now. I'm so glad we have the same mug. Enjoy!

[@dirwinzzz]

Discovered your channel when we’re building your bus. Although probably not your typical viewer ( 71 years old ) I am impressed with your enthusiasm and look forward to watching your houseboat journey. Side note ,love both those albums leaning against your wall !

[@EmmaBuildsBirbie]

thank you!

[@kannieschrijfnie2042]

Almost the same here 👍

[@MichaelLynch-zs9mr]

Emma you haven’t lived till you do a ‘craze 8’ on a forklift… it fun till manger walks into the warehouse 🤪

[@TheJoshHafner]

My wife and I love your videos! Excited to see the finished product. 🤙🏼😄

[@BrandSolutions]

I cant wait. You got this, we all believe in you. Besides we like you so if you make any major mistakes along the way someone will tell you so you don't sink your house lol.

[@user-no7lg7nz7h]

You go girl. I think it’s great that you are doing this. I’m building row boat from plywood and I am having a blast. Enjoy!

[@michaelneville3455]

Hi Emma , looking forward to your new adventure, can I suggest 2 youtubers to watch and learn, the 1st one is 'Sailing Wave Rover' guy built a small yacht is his shed , shows him and misses building , glassing etc to sail this yacht across Atlantic , very close to what you are doing. The 2nd you tuber to learn from would be 'Th 0:19 e Duracell Project 'a ship builder restoring a famous ocean racer , but shows him and his mother doing lots of fiberglassing etc.on joints ,very professional well worth a look . All the best, as always love your shows.

[@DeAnnaG_KissingFrogsMedia]

YAY! Great start!❤ One thing you might consider investing in is a sheet of pegboard and some tool hooks for the garage wall and some shelving/work bench area. Keeping your tools and supplies organized will help you out immensely and save you from the hours of cleaning and reorganizing daily like you did with birbie. You got this! May you have continued good days and safe building!

[@roystorms188]

You can use a 4x8 foam sheet insulation to cut on and that will support your work and let you cut through the wood just a little bit. You can cut on the floor or on the sawhorses.

[@D0ug13d0ug]

FROM SCRATCH?? oh wow, I thought you were buying a shell and just doing up the interior. It's gonna be a challenge but it's going to be a great reward in the end. Epoxy is going to become your best friend lol best waterproofing, just epoxy coat everything. good quality anti-fouling paint for the submerged bits is key too. Luckily there are a TON of sailing channels on YT you should watch. KEEP THOSE ROUTERS. You'll regret downsizing. Buy a router table too. That's what the router on the right (grey toed sock) installs in. The one of the left (white toed sock haha ;P) is for hand-balming all your cuts. PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE before you touch the wood you really want to use. So exciting! Good luck! Learn form mistakes and just remember to have fun! and of course measure twice, cut once.

[@scottlalonde7325]

Love your videos. You inspire the average person to think they can do anything they want to do. By the way I liked your technique for moving plywood, made me laugh but good for you for doing it by yourself.

[@alanhat5252]

5:23 I'm with you on that! The casualty rate with customers is actually low but it really doesn't look that way

[@spiritinamerica3282]

Being brave is not the absence of fear. It is being afraid and do it anyway.

[@jimstelfox6120]

A tip to cutting plywood if you want a clean edge I.e. no torn edges, place a strip of tape where the cut will be so you cut through the tape when cutting

[@user-lk2cj2qs1d]

The blade used is very important cutting plywood want one with a lot of teeth

[@alanhat5252]

​@@user-lk2cj2qs1dbut not too many or it burns. I believe the ideal is 2 to 3 teeth in the cut.

[@user-lk2cj2qs1d]

@@alanhat5252 a 7.25 inch blade will have about 60 teeth carbides are best for all woods Many set the blade too deep Ask the store if needed

[@Victor-uq6ge]

Hi Emma, this is so exciting! Houseboats are so cool. Years ago i like too build one too, but other things became more priority in my life. There are two interesting books i bought for houseboat making. It helps me a lot to understand the technical process of this project. 1. Handmade Houseboats by Russel Conder 2. Designing and building a houseboat by Stefan Huebbe Good luck, Emma! See you soon. Greetings, Vic 🙂

[@_JoyceArt]

You need one of those thingymebobs to carry sheets of wood.

[@tommotomlinson3370]

This is going to be great 👍....the backing music is perfect for you...go on steady 👌

[@500mos]

All I can say is WOW!!!!!

[@darkfactory8082]

Damn, Emma, if I get it right, you're going to build a boat.., all by yourself.. Well, this is some serious projekt you're undergoing...Keep calm, measure three times with no cuts, then measure the fouth time and only after you're absolutely sure, make the cut. Hickups at the beginning are part of the process, so don't worry. Hehe, the router is handheld, just the normal size. I don't see any problem with that.. Anyway, you have an ambitious projekt in front of you, the best recipe is to make it the best you can and not accept mediocrity..=) If you're a perfectionist, you strive always for success. And remember, it's not because of being excelent, but because every error you make, it will get your road to success harder, while every step you accomplish precisely, will make your road easier. Cheers, Emma, looking forward to see you happy. They say a hard earned goal is priceless. You know what? They're right! 😉

[@brianbayer9926]

As long as you have a cup to drink your tea 🍵, I'm the same way with my coffee ☕ priorities

[@BillySBC]

Thank God you posted this Emma, I was watching the NY Jets get embarrassed and destroyed again and I really needed a distraction from that. You saved my life girl. Thank you.

[@gonzo919]

Wow !! A boat,... You're a warrior this is going to be an awesome ride, you're Incredible! Good job Emma 👍

[@davidwalker9188]

It will be a nice adventure that I will Surely follow you and watch your videos

[@mattgibbs4115]

I did the same thing when I bought a router. Used it once and the torque scared the crap out of me.

[@nashdiy8570]

I’d be terrified too but I admire that your ambition outweighs your fears. Keep movin’, you got this. The real question is what will the boat’s name be?

[@tomst9417]

This will be a challenging build in many ways different from the bus as you pointed out. Practice using the router on scrap or inexpensive wood (not marine plywood) as there is definitely a learning curve to using it. Routers are great tools which demand respect as they can do a lot of damage to materials or you if not operated carefully.

[@ronnievance6835]

I refuse to believe that you’re afraid of tackling this project ! Converting a school bus into a motor home seems more daunting to me. With what you’ve learned on doing that project this will be “cake”.😊

[@EmmaBuildsBirbie]

haha i was afraid of that too!

[@chrisgentry4427]

I don't have anything against home depot, but it's not my place of choice. You won't find anyone zipping around on a forklift at my local one. There isn't enough room for people to pass each other in many spots. Place is packed.

[@johnlounsbury6191]

really looking forward to the build having just found your channel. as a retired carpenter you will find the lumber company much more helpful. they will get to know you and you'll fill comfortable

[@Jugalassas]

The two happiest days in a person's life, the day they buy their boat, and the day they sell it!!!!!!!

[@steveg9691]

Yeah Im conflicted…. You were my big influence in finishing my own bus build … now installing solar…… I dont know. You’re a master at vid editing. Maybe I’ll get tired of the bus in time. Right now Im loving it. Just Sad I guess you dont have one anymore. ❤️u

[@renoflames]

You got this.

[@tasiedude]

Hey Emma i would suggest maybe if your gonna be building a wooden boat and cutting and sanding alot of wood i would recommend getting yourself some sort of breathing protection so you dont get Silicosis

[@alanhat5252]

and a dust extractor

[@espnmk]

if you weren't scared you wouldn't be a human with a heart beat. Happy Thanksgiving

[@richardmoore2590]

Emma, you are undoubtedly, definitely, unequivocally, definitely AMAZING. Good luck on your latest adventure.

[@HajnalkaGyurgyovics]

All aboard!🫡⛴🍀

[@jasonjones5213]

Your enthusiasm is great so far.Should be a good series.

[@roydesignedthat]

Hi Emma, I just came across your chanel and am excited to see you progress!!! I am still nervous with each new project, even though I have built lots of "stuff"! I think it means you are doing something important (I'll add "to you" as some won't get it!)! A hint for you when cutting larger panels...save some of those Amazon boxes that are the same size, to lay your ply sheets down on! You never need to worry about cutting off a corner of your stands or damaging your saw blade! I also made two straight edges that I clamp as a saw guide so yout cuts are guaranteed to be straight, one 50" and one 100". Hope this helps and compliments on your editing skills! Also, I think your wheel will be awesome! You may need to make or scrounge some hardware! The yoke is keyed and you may be able to fine one from old tools with crank handles! I keep a keen eye during my builds for items needed down the road! I was excited to pass (and back back up) a finished yardsale this summer with boxes of free stuff! I got a single burner alcohol stove, a runner carper and a great cooler, all for free for my MiniD build! On Home Depot... I so agree with you! I would love to support my local lumberyard and do so as much as possible but I feel nore at ease being left alone to "pick" a pill of ply or lumber! Left alone, I've found clear 2x12"x16' cedar boards, which are a rare find but possible when an employee isn't picking out the wood for you! Also look for used, free wood that folks leave on the side of the road! I trimmed my last boat in mahogany, using old bed frames, etc. collected for free! Just avoid the glue lins as the joints likely did not use waterproof glues! You are off to a great start! All the best Roy

[@EmmaBuildsBirbie]

thank you for all the advice!

[@alanhat5252]

Any piece of wood you need to curve leave in the woodyard till your'e ready for it because it goes stiff as it seasons. It _might_ already be over-seasoned when you buy it but if you leave it in your workshop for months it will _definitely_ be overseasoned.

[@tonyk2]

Great quote at 1:49 - 'If I mess this up too badly, my house will sink! (But, knowing you, I'm sure that won't happen). One suggestion - the audio in that bare room was not very clear - could you get some carpet, rugs, curtails, etc to reduce the echo. And good luck with this new project!

[@michaelirizarry5037]

yes! emmas back! yes you can 100% do this! and it's going to be great!

[@AB-C1]

Well done getting started Emma! Btw. You can still use the router you bought, if anything it'll be better/more accurate than a palm router.. Loving your energy in this video! Youre looking so excited for this project, which is great! Have a fantastic week and look forward to the next one!

[@twoforonecreativelife]

Eeee! This is gonna be so good. We believe in you!! 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@EmmaBuildsBirbie]

💙

[@mr.vancamp]

I am really impressed with the challenges you take on you are braver than me. I've watched all the bus build and your trips and really enjoy your Chanel. Now the boat build, I'll look forward to every episode and I hope things go really smooth for you. But also what has impressed me is you can make a cup of tea 😂 hot water first , brew, then milk . It was the right colour too, as an Englishman top marks 😂😂

[@tomsmith-rr6ch]

loved watching you build Birbie know this gonna be fun to watch alone

[@fillg]

I'm really excited to see this boat come together. I've always wanted to live on the water but just never quite got around to it

[@user-lk2cj2qs1d]

Maybe unless the plans give possible suppliers Get a magazine copy of Woodenboat they have numerous ones listed I did when I built my 8 foot Cold molded pram years ago It was a chore a round bottom with 3 layers of 1/8th inch cedar Had to order that Each layer was at a 90 degree to the others A ton of scribing with a compass and won't mention how much epoxy resin it took Each 8th inch veneer had to be scribed to the one before YOU CAN DO IT and a WHOLE LOT MORE So you found the wood :)

[@johnepperson8867]

I TOTALLY believe in you, Emma !!!

[@larswennskog5239]

Hi Emma! It will be interesting to following this new projekt. Best of luck to you. 🙂👍

[@tailsof1leo180]

Are you going to be building this houseboat on a trailer? Or does it get built in the garage and then somehow put on a trailer? I am finding this new adventure you are embarking on quite interesting. And find you very brave for doing this even though you are nervous/afraid.

[@JimBerryman-uf9io]

I love you Emma, and I won't say your not scared. I think everyone, if they have a brain, is scared, being brave ,I think , is you are scared, but you're still willing to fight through the fear and try new things, you do seem like you over think things from time to time, but that only becomes a problem, if it's to the point that you talk yourself out of what you're trying to do. But I know you're gonna crash this 😁 Sending you love Emma 🌹

[@user-kf9fv1qj9u]

Great video Emma

[@lesheath6216]

You should buy a jigsaw for cutting those small notches and or any inside holes you may need to cut. It's much lighter and easier to use than your circular saw.

[@alanhat5252]

she's using one of those oscillating cutters which are even lighter.

[@ribbleslipscomb5171]

Hi Emma, looking forward to your build. Scared but willing to try, not a bad place to be. ❤❤

[@iheartswedishfish5771]

YESS ITS HERE

[@billmorse6783]

I think you can do anything you put your mind to, good luck with your b

[@terrybrannigan9963]

So awesome! There is no doubt you are going to build a beautiful boat. I love how you downplay your awesomeness by saying you're afraid of everything... when that just makes you even more badass. Thank you so much for bringing us along! Is there new merch???

[@scottjohnson1085]

Oh! And kicking butt!

[@storiesfromhinterland]

You are brave and not scared...you are building a boat 💪. Give yourself more credit.. ☺️ looking forward in your progress.

[@roybarnes388]

Get a couple cheap 2 by 4s to put across saw horses to cut on..also you need a T railor to put hull on and eventually launce with ...

[@user-lk2cj2qs1d]

Nothing wrong with being scared It's when it interferes with your goals is when it is an issue Great Thanksgiving week end An Emma vid

[@stevengregory8686]

I know you can do whatever you put your mind too; Keep up the high spirits and it will be over before you know it. BTW, we have something in common, I love your Toyota PU truck, I have two of them!!!!LOL, see you next week.....

[@leobuildsit]

Psst most lumber yards offer delivery. If you get a list of the materials you may get a discount if you buy it in bulk over buying the pieces in small groupings.

[@priscillajones623]

Wow! I really couldn’t figure out the bus to truck deal. Now I get it. I am so excited. This is so much better then the bus and the bus was fun. This will be epic. You go girl!

[@Land_an_sea]

I just started watching your videos and I'm very impressed with the courage you have to start a project like this! I make wooden cleats out of locast that are super tough and they look great. I would like to donate four of them for your boat if you are interested.

[@Land_an_sea]

Btw... I'm also building a boat I have 1 video up now on the print review, check it out! I have most of the frames done now and when I start setting them up I'm planning on getting a couple more videos uploaded. Again great job! Courage is being scared but doing it anyway. You'll get it done.

[@LoMac_]

From land to water next you'll be taking flight building a plane! 👍

[@arthurdentau]

Hi Emma, It's good to see that close enough is good enough mantra gone. Looking forward to seeing this build happen, Good luck & stick to the plans, Cheers m8.