How to build a cardboard kayak for less than 40$ (Updated with template)

Step 2 Make a prototype, to scale

This is technically an optional step, but one that is highly recommended. Making a to scale model of your final kayak will help you to see any potential design flaws before you get to the real thing. It also helps you to visualize the shape, and better understand the hydrodynamics of the hull.

Comments

[broomhead]

Your design is great! and I am thinking of constructing a 2 person kayak, do you have a scan or the original scale drawing you did of this kayak so i could make adjustments? this photo is very helpful, but a 1-1 scan would be better.

[hunkyw]

id like a scan also if possible

[msd8]

I think I can post a scan, I haven't tried using my scanner with my Mac yet, so it might be kinda hairy. I can explain my design fairly easily though. My scale model had each line spaced 1 inch apart, with a total of six lines, making it six inches wide. Each line ran for 10 inches. I figured a length ratio of 4 inches for the bow, 2.5 inches for the cockpit, and then 3.5 inches for the stern. This allows the occupant's center of gravity (which we figured to be roughly 3 inches forward from their spine due to the weight of their legs and feet) to be roughly centered in the kayak, although we had it slightly further twords the rear for stability. I'll try and send you a PDF of the design as soon as I finish laying it out in CAD.

[broomhead]

Thank you so much! that is perfect, I can't wait to build this for a recycled materials boat race