Making a Cedar Strip Kayak - microBootlegger Sport Build Overview

[@NickSchade]

It is approaching a year ago that I started working on this kayak. It is good to have this document of the process. I hope you enjoy watching

[@pamandpaulhinderaker8869]

Nick, I just finished washing and sanding the epoxy and applying the first coat of marine varnish on my kayak. Several areas became milky looking with the fiberglass cloth cross hatch showing up - but I don't feel the glass, all is smooth. Any thoughts on what I did wrong? This is my fish kayak and first time working with epoxy and marine varnish. Thanks, Paul

[@NickSchade]

Hi @@pamandpaulhinderaker8869, Usually the varnish will make surface milkiness disappear. If you are seeing the weave of the cloth a bit, that would suggest that the problem is embedded in the epoxy a bit. It is hard to know exactly what is going on without actually seeing the issue. You could send me a photo at Nick {at} guillemot-kayaks {dot} com. I would be happy to take a look and see if I can offer any suggestions.

[@Demonyaa]

This is so beautiful. Congratulations on the exquisite craftsmanship.

[@svborek]

What is the cost of something like this.

[@goldrushpro]

I'm so conflicted with what you have done. On one hand it seems like a crazy amount of effort to put into anything - but on the other hand it seems like the very best thing a person could do with their time... damn nice work!

[@kdstoffel7574]

First KZbin video I ever saw that was worth the commercials. Spectacular work. Truly breathtaking.

[@lesterfalcon1350]

Became aware that I was shaking my head as I was watching, in disbelief at the level of craftsmanship and beauty of the work. Simply stunning.

[@ukwoodcarver]

Lester Falcon Me too 😮

[@ImpactPlusMarketing]

@@ukwoodcarver me too!!...unbelieveable craftmanship

[@locharrow2131]

SAME

[@jerrymaxey782]

I have never seen such attention to detail except for me when shaving

[@mlugin8050]

That is one of the most satisfying things a man can build. I‘m curing major depression in a mental health hospital atm, and this video made me really enjoy to watch, i didn‘t expect to find that. What a piece of art. Steady, patient, exact, calm work and the result is from a different world. Best thing i‘ve ever seen. When get out of here i try to go on a early winter morning kayak trip in my old plastic kayak. Thanks a lot for sharing

[@NickSchade]

Making anything can be highly therapeutic. Even getting your hands on Playdough is good. I hope you feel better.

[@mlugin8050]

Nick Schade thank you! I have a class in 5 mins, in the clinic. I try whittling/ carving a rabbit😁 in the morning i was shooting a nice wooden bow with an instructor. I made a clay duck last week, it looks funny but i liked doing it. They have good things to do in here. Your work is inspiring...

[@seantiz]

Best of luck to you finding your peace.

[@indiespot2024]

1st scratch and I'd be jumping off the nearest bridge. Incredible Work Nick!

[@kayakingforthebirds2506]

Something tells me he can probably fix it.

[@jimmybob7364]

@@kayakingforthebirds2506 Just a little sanding.

[@aaronrad]

It's amazing what one man can do with his hands and 4000 rolls of tape.

[@classixdrummer]

“Wow look at that, a floating Stradivarius.”

[@jeffbeck6501]

Exactly. It should be illegal to put that in the water.

[@jonathantuttle708]

@@jeffbeck6501 it would be a shame for it to not be put in the water after all the exquisite and meticulous work put into it. That would be like never hearing that Stradivarius played.

[@danilocarno]

@@jeffbeck6501 Yes but you cannot leave the satisfaction of trying the result of your work, it is like cooking the best of the rib-eyes and not eating it. A cordial greeting.

[@spacedinvader9773]

literally just said that to my mate, scroll down, last comment!

[@bearmeister98]

classixdrummer I think that's a fair statement and well put! I work with wood but have no knowledge of Kayak building. I feel I can say that this man is a true craftsman with incredible workmanship...well done sir, beautiful.

[@JCB57]

As an amateur wood worker, that is one of the most beautiful works of art I've ever seen!

[@robcary2808]

Nick, we've never met, I hope you don't mind my sharing. I have to tell you, this peaceful gift of yours reached me on many levels: I am an avid kayaker of several decades now, a serious amateur musician, and I teach yoga (also about 20 years). When I was in high school wood shop, Dad and I built a 13 foot sailboat using Redwood strips, same construction strategy you're using on those gorgeous kayaks. Like your website says, there is nothing more peaceful nor satisfying than paddling the waters of MA, Maine, and New Hampshire in a boat you built with your own two hands. The music you chose could not be more aligned with your 35 minutes of creation. I came across this snippet by chance, once the music started, I had to experience the whole thing. I wish you and your staff another 25 years of outrageous success and feeling connected to like-minded folks. Never say never my friend; I will see you on the water. Namaste

[@mohdakhmalyusof9488]

i woke up today and i just want to build a kayak. jumped into your video. i was just amazed by your detailed workmanship. premium finishing. thank you sir.

[@NickSchade]

Go for it. Its fun.

[@burkerow]

You Sir are a master of your craft. I'm 62 years old and I've wanted to build a cedar strip kayak for decades. I just purchased a kit for a S&G kayak from CLC and I'm enjoying the building process immensely. However, watching you build boats reignites my desire to take this craft to a new level with a strip kayak.

[@motorcop505]

It makes the store bought kayaks look so mundane. No matter how nice a store bought one could be, there would be nothing like paddling about in that sublime craft that you made by yourself. It really does remind me of the crafting of an instrument like a violin, cello, guitar, or mandolin... that floats. Just amazing!

[@remek_ember]

That thing has the build quality of a musical instrument

[@jeffbeck6501]

I wonder if he could make a guitar.

[@briangodfrey5079]

@@jeffbeck6501 Without a doubt.

[@donalheffernan8270]

Sounds just about right.

[@michaelszczygiel2069]

I was thinking that it is as beautiful and meticulously crafted as a giant violin would have been.

[@scottgorman7166]

A true craftsman, sharp tools, patience and a Wooden Boat Apron.....Nick the wood tool your using to smooth the edges on the strips that have the 2 handles is that a type of plane you made, it is breaking the edges of the previous laid piece......I love the Channel marker in the video.......calming

[@gblan]

I've never used a kayak nor do I know diddly-squat about them but this video was a joy to watch. Doesn't really matter the subject, watching a true master at work is always worth the time. This is one of those things that if you have to ask you can't afford it.

[@ericcorall9183]

I thought I'd skip through the video but ended up watching the whole 35 min. Mesmerizing, craftsmanship at its finest.

[@dallas.burbridge]

I am jealous of your clamp collection

[@PottersWork]

lol, I was thinking the same thing! I was counting $4 for every hand clamp as he went around...makes my 10 clamps I own seem inferior

[@PottersWork]

Gangster, apparently not lol.

[@PottersWork]

@Gangster of Love, you have 2 more chip clips than I do! Lmao

[@scottmichael3745]

Harbor Freight clamps work just fine! I wait for a sale and buy in bulk! :-) And apparently tape works well too! That's clever.

[@PottersWork]

@@scottmichael3745, I have a couple HF clamps, only issue I've had is one of my screw clams handles broke off. I just use pliers on it now lol

[@grahamball364]

Bauithful work and a very nice looking craft .

[@mtstew1233]

I could never appreciate the effort and craftsmanship put into this build until now. Seeing the season change out your windows was incredible. The music was an incredible symphony of craftsmanship capped off by your skills. Your attention to every detail and beautiful craftsmanship was a joy to experience. Thank you for sharing this moment of calm and serenity wrapped around an incredible build. Excellent, I was educated while relieving any stress from my life. This was the first time that learning was also relaxing. Cheers sir, very commendable.

[@elizabethanderson3114]

My brother John had that level of meticulous attention to detail and patience for fine craftsmanship. I takes amazing talent to create something like that and then launch it into the water.

[@NickSchade]

It really doesn't take that much talent. A good deal of patience is more important.

[@StanJan]

I am older, I have worked in wood all my life. This is incredible. Your talent has morphed into the religious realm. Thank you. I forgot how much beauty can come from devotion. Just wow.

[@rerawho]

35 minutes just flew by in a few blinks. Your video is perfectly crafted. Of course it is. A master craftsman wouldn’t skimp on his video. I love how you organized your cedar strips to go together so the grain looks like a continuous log. Brilliant work. I wish you would have shown how you took the halves apart. Thank you for posting this excellent video.

[@tedlinzy5865]

Wow, just wow! I dare say calling it a kayak almost feels insulting to the craftsmanship level. This is art. Truly amazing and stunning.

[@TheRedSweater]

This is something that can be treasured forever. Beautifully done.

[@NickSchade]

Thank you

[@dthenderson96]

I will add my kudos. This is a magnificent boat by itself. It was wonderful to see the level of attention to detail and the painstaking measures you took to insure perfection. It is like a priceless musical instrument or work of art. Each time you put a finish on, I held my breath wondering if this was it. Then you'd sand it down again. The anticipation was excruciating (LOL), but well worth it! Thank you for sharing.

[@flydog58]

I built the Great Auk in 2010. Took me five months. One of the most satisfying things I’ve ever done! Thanks for enriching my life Nick!

[@jmichaelolds]

This has to be the most beautiful kayak I've ever seen. The labor that goes into it, unreal!

[@falconerodland]

Oh wow! The moment it's revealed after sanding that you've organized the strips to mirror their grain at the center line! Awesome!

[@brucekratky7993]

If the You Tube system would allow me to "like" this video more than one time I'd push the button dozens of times. Watched the original series of the how you made it and enjoyed that tremendously. This just makes the process seem more whole. Shows how you thought out the details in a more seamless fashion. Like the lines of the kayak itself this video just flows.

[@windylol]

The excitement of taking that out for the first time.....absolute heaven

[@wormsnavel1311]

Everytime when i was thinking that it is done ,you still go further , sir i have a feeling that you did this kayak to be able to fly in another universe ,what a spectacular dedication ... i have no words ,was a pleasure to watch your video.

[@hectatusbreakfastus6106]

Heck of a craftsman you are. As a skilled woodworker myself that's not a compliment that I dole out lightly. Thank you for giving me something to watch as I long for the days of having a boat again. Had to sell my 14ft kayak to help pay for school costs.

[@jamesfrisella7482]

“ GREAT JOB “. Built a 17 foot Mahogany Kayak and a 15’ cedar strip row boat. About 15 years ago. Lots of fun. “ LOT’S of SANDING “. Lots of work but enjoyed every minute of it. This year I got to fill It with my 7 grandchildren ages 1 thru 9. And take them for a row. I call the picture “ Boat Load of Grandchildren”. Build one Yourself. You Won’t Regret it.

[@tombryant52jumpscoach]

I enjoyed watching this very good video at 50 % playback speed on the KZbin video player. Even the music was good at that speed. Early in the morning with a cup of coffee the experience was felt. This is a boat, high functioning for sure but it is much more. A work of art which involves a lot of love. That was the real pleasure of watching for me. Thanks. What a beautiful Kayak this is.

[@petepassmore7740]

This deserves to be exhibited in a fine art gallery. An absolute masterpiece. Well done maestro.

[@michaelneely4851]

That right there is love. Beautiful work. If you will excuse me I have to retrieve my jaw from the floor. Absolutely stunning

[@SuperMadpom]

It's great to see people making things that are both functional and beautiful. So much love care and patience invested to produce something beautiful. I hope the totally appropriate combination of old and new materials means that it will last for decades with care.

[@dpenman1313]

Just in awe of your mad skills. Not just your superior woodworking skills but your cinematography and editing skills as well! Beautiful and well done!

[@klikks]

What i like the most is, it only took Half an houer to make!

[@cia9315]

For us, not for him though

[@circomnia9984]

@@cia9315 Really?!? ...bummer. I was on my way to buy some wood. :(

[@sonnieandjacob]

I'm on the last 2% of finishing the 1 man boat I have been building on every day for a year and it was exhausting but I have never in my life felt such a profound sense of accomplishment as I have with this project and I have to imagine you feel the same because that is a gorgeous little kayak.

[@davidrobinson7112]

A true artisan. Amazing that such people are alive and producing magnificent art. God bless them all

[@stevenhsu5863]

What a beauty! So much work. Love how you matched the grain. A boat as a museum piece. Could never be mass produced--until someone builds a strip blank boat building robot, which will never happen. Not because it would be impossible, but because there is almost no market, because it would still cost more than plastic. The only reason such a boat exists, is that someone really loves the beauty of real wood, and people in love exhibit non-economic behavior.

[@ctcollinthib]

My God that is a beautiful kayak. And that finish!!! It must glide so easily through the water.

[@SilasMoleCatcher]

Brilliant video. I like the way you edited in the footage of water-birds, who are born to float, and juxtaposed it with your labours - the lengths a man must go to if he himself must get on the water. And the end result is something like those birds; beautiful, agile, and feather-light.

[@VikingsFan27]

What a absolute work of art. As much as I would love to build such a masterpiece, I just dont have the patience. I can surely appreciate the time and effort Involved in making such a beautiful boat. Of course I would see 229 people that gave this a thumbs down. That is so shameful. Beautiful work!

[@normanrizor8774]

Very few works of art are appreciated while the artist is still alive.

[@MrXcc4u]

few words can describe what i have just seen in the last 36 minutes. i am in awe and glad to have been witness to the build of this kayak. your hands are extensions of mother nature and the cedar is your canvas. thank you for recording your craftsmanship and letting those of us lucky enough to have been able to look over your shoulder.

[@johnshepherd9849]

Absolutely mesmerizing. Incredible craftsmanship and patience during crafting the vessel. Thank you!

[@rickguerrero2282]

Incredibly craftsmanship in your project. As an ex-woodworker, none of my projects required this much attention to each millimeter! BRAVO!

[@shizzydeep6867]

That thing must glide through water like a hot knife through butter. Amazing work!

[@tobystrickland5986]

It's sad to know that the young generation doesn't appreciate the ways of the old days. This is something that is getting lost as time goes on. I know I truly enjoyed each and every minute of this video with the upmost respect and the knowledge you have in building this and I truly hope someone in your family is learning this from you. God bless you.

[@ericromano4028]

No worries friend. There's a huge group of younger people picking up crafts like this.

[@hoofheartedicemelted296]

I hope he passes this skill on to someone, preferably a family member but if needs be a stranger who appreciates the skill. Modern tech brought us the assembly line, but the personal touch was lost. Nick would be highly prized by the waterborne folk in the America's several centuries ago. Well done sir. Well done indeed.

[@berobinson82]

Not only is your work flawless, your control in the water is equally impressive.

[@jeffyork9389]

As an avid sport kayaker with three slightly upper mid grade kayaks, my dream is to build a wood kayak. My airplane ( KR2) has what's called a wood boat with fiberglass over the wood. So, I'm familiar with the process. My KR has been featured in magazines and won numerous national awards. But, the quality of your kayak is far beyond my KR2. In fact, it blows my mind that you actually took that work of art on the water and that your dock has no bumpers. I cringed. As another stated, it's a Stradivarius and certainly museum quality. I salute you.

[@aceallenk]

Beautiful !!! But what really ticks me off is anyone giving this build a thumbs down. Some people have no clue about working in a shop, owning tools, and taking a plank and turning it into a heirloom with your own 2 hands, one could only dream of being the proud recipient of. I tip my hat to you Nick, that is incredible !!!!!!

[@coryjeffreys5146]

That boat made me cry at the end. She was just the most beautiful thing I ever saw.

[@jeffbanfieldsflwr3537]

The level of focus is jaw dropping. Amazing amazing work. This video will live long after your gone!

[@manueldriggs7099]

This has got to be one of the most incredible videos I have seen in a long time on KZbin! This beautiful cedar boat is a magnificent example of functional art. I love how the video was shot. I love the editing and the way you utilized the fast action filming to keep things interesting. Your choice of music is fantastic. It seems ironic how the music counter balances the fast action filming of what you were doing. "Almost in F - Tranquillity" by Kevin MacLeod beautifully captures the majesty of the process of you building your Kayak. What you do is beyond craft. It is truly "ART." You are a "Master Artisan." I was mesmerized by watching how you "sculpted your Kayak" and breathed new life into that cedar. I loved watching your focus, dedication, and passion for what you love doing. What you did is so inspiring- I can't thank you enough for posting this incredible video! To say I was moved would be truly an understatement. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

[@sirkyoj1]

I am going to hide my plastic kayak in shame after seeing this work of art.

[@davesrvchannel4717]

I never would’ve thought of sealing a boat with Greek nonfat yogurt, but sure did the trick!! Mad skills!!

[@michaellynch1159]

The secret is in the Butane Torch.

[@fast4wood]

Wood strips are the ultimate. Nick is a kayak genius.

[@carllos25]

oh, wow! that was really nice to watch. If I could buy that kayak, i don't think ill ever use it lol, I'll display it in my living room like a work of art.

[@gilberttahimartin]

Haha that was my thought exactly

[@MrPDGee]

Absolutely astounding craftsmanship and attention to detail. Great skilled craftsman. I can't even sit in a kayak because of back problems, but I can appreciate good quality and beautiful work.

[@kaden7298]

I’m a carpenter. To see the work this gentlemen put into this little boat is an eye opener. Extraordinary work

[@maxheadroom1506]

you could probably make one from watching this video.

[@jamesricks9863]

This is my favorite of your builds. I feel it comes from both the texture of the design, and your video editing capturing crucial areas of the flow this kayak has in her curves. The way she sits in the water is amazing.

[@alfredlearlyjr1780]

I had a very intelligent neighbor in Land O Lakes Florida, who built two of these. Lovely work, I just outstanding.

[@freemandecker8584]

That Kayak is not only beautiful and but amazing to watch. Soundtrack was excellent, all together, the real deal, nicely done. Makes me wish I had a skill.

[@mopar_dude9227]

The artistry of the video editing and music are almost as much as the beautiful kayak, almost that is. Amazing job.

[@robertcarmody194]

I.was so glad for you when you finally got to reap the pleasure of taking your kayak out on the water. An absolutely beautiful boat, a work of art and love. Congratulations!

[@davidallen9526]

Good God, What Craftsmanship!!! Truly a pleasure to watch you at work. The attention to every detail no matter how small is outstanding. A fine example of utilitarian Artwork. If I were in your shoes I'm uncertain if I could sell it to someone I do not know well. WELL DONE SIR, WELL DONE!!!

[@toddray4549]

That's real craftsmanship. You sir are a very talented man and thats an understatement

[@k1u9r6t8]

That is the best looking water craft I've ever seen in my life. I wish I could acquire one from you.

[@TubeSurfer10]

I watched this lovely video, after I walked to my garage to look at my plastic kayak, I will never be happy on the water again. Thankyou for sharing.

[@mikemather5]

This is the most beautiful thing I've watched in a very long time. I'm saving it to my favorites. You sir are an artist!

[@tonya9614]

I now have a profound appreciation for cedar strip kayaks! The fact that you get to share your craftsmanship with the world is amazing! Also very relaxing to watch.

[@mehtaworldpeace3364]

This is the most beautiful kayak I have ever seen

[@paddlefaster]

As a professional woodworker and Avid kayaker I can't tell you how much I appreciate your craftsmanship. She's an absolute stunner. I love the way you fit the stem head on. It never would have occurred to me to use the actual 'stem head' ?? to sand the final profile into the bow. Fantastic job!

[@gelavski]

Потрясающе! Шикарный съемки. Кадр с поездом в конце - бесподобен! Спасибо! Отличная работа!

[@daveparsons6956]

Wow Nick, I don't know whether to be more jealous of the kayak, your workshop or your skills. A truly beautiful object in a world of mass-produced rubbish.

[@jameskarran5330]

What an exquisite build! Congratulations and thanks for sharing it.

[@raceace]

Lovely cedar creation, and by the way you plucked it out of that grubby water, lighter than a spring breeze.

[@andrerobertdrouin3642]

Holy moly what a beauty , so darn well built , pure ecstasy watching it glide .

[@abates3747]

green, super adhesion masking tape!!! I can't live without that stuff... amazing work of art.

[@angusmackay7281]

Absolute respect to you, sir. Your craftsmanship is incredible.

[@aviedelson945]

I am not a kayak enthusiast but I love this video! In suspense on how to close the bottom until 12:30 to 14:00 - quintessential craftsmanship. A meditation on loving nature. Such fantastic work. Respect to you Nick.

[@jwrappuhn71]

That's the best vid I've seen all year, incredible Nick, that is fantastic, excellent workmanship.

[@JDFinley]

A HUGE THANK YOU Nick!! I've wanted to build a strip kayak for years but always figured the details would kill me. After watching most your videos this past summer, you convinced that I could do it. I purchased your microBootlegger Sport plans/forms from CLCBoats and am now deep into the build. I'm now re-watching your build videos over and over getting every little bit of detail possible. You have made this build so much easier by answering all the questions that I've had!! I don't have super high expectations for my first build - it's really a learning exercise for the next one. Yep - already ordered the wood for #2! 😉 Thank you for all the time you've invested in your plans, videos, and helping folks like me!!

[@brokenwingflyer]

Beautiful craftsmanship with and an amazing result. Truly spectacular. Thanks for the video.

[@joshgandy7707]

There simply is no other demonstration of this level of craftsmanship documented on KZbin. Period!

[@ahhellnahhhh6007]

Absolutely hypnotized by this(!); the process, the music, the serenity of it as a whole is just so well executed. A job well done and beautiful final product. Cheers :)

[@johngallagher912]

I watched this again. The first time I didn't realize the high tech involved here. You used fiberglass , kevlar, carbon fiber, and carbon fiber-kevlar mesh. Not only is it beautiful, it's space age technology. Just watched some of another video on this build and it shows that you used vacuum bagging for these high tech CF cloths. This is truly a one of a kind build.

[@BL-su5wt]

Wow, is all I can say. worth watching every second of. The craftsmanship and know how and attention to detail is amazing!. Thanks for posting. Wish I could afford one :)

[@wadesaunders583]

If only I had that kind of patience, commitment and sheer will! Alas I realize now I could never do this...you sir are an amazing crafstman

[@BlackDogWoodwork]

WOW! Just WOW! Absolutely amazing! Beautiful. So many thanks. Really enjoyed this video. You sir are a true craftsman.

[@mgrantom]

Fantastic design! Unbelievable eye to detail and meticulous craftsmanship. Makes me want to build one for salt water.

[@aaronlawson1328]

If I ever win mega millions, I’ll have to have you build me 2 of everything you’ve designed Nick, 1 to paddle, and 1 to display around my house on the walls!

[@horus10]

This is the most beautiful kayak I have ever seen. From the lines, to the workmanship, to the color, to the finish, to the final product. Congratulations on a beautiful piece of floating art.

[@CaptainValian]

That is an absolute piece of art with function. Perfect.

[@altair7001]

Why in hell would someone thumb down this video??? This the epitome of perfection in boatbuilding! Bookmatched cedar strips, each one individually beveled, uniformly sanded inside and out, glassed in and out, sanded multiple times, varnished, polished... The works! Nobody on earth does it better.

[@bobyoung1698]

Well, now I know what happened to all my clamps.😉 Seriously, this video was outstanding. I was mesmerized, soothed and totally engaged from beginning 'till end. I would call you a craftsman but that falls far short. Thank you.

[@williammartin9357]

That's beautiful wood work. It's how with a good pair of hands and a good eye can make beautiful art .