Aug '26 Newsletter
Long time no ramble!
Last newsletter was in the depths of January, just before Amanda and I took an epic six weeks off in Vietnam & Thailand. Back then I shared some cabinetry, Meyette furniture, some experimental furniture, updates on the second Point Comfort 18 build, plus some boat designs from the dream catalog. Here I’ll share some work since then, what it looks like ahead, and a few boat designs like usual.
“GUESS AGAIN” a brand new, electric propulsion Point Comfort 18
I’m very proud to share that I launched the new build on Aug 7 with the client and his family in Georgetown. Depending on the source of electricity, this can be a zero emission outboard skiff! The 72v Momentum M10 tiller motor is paired with a 105ah Vatrer golf cart battery, stowed in a midship locker, where it lives for charging at the dock. Her 12v house battery supplies a switch panel for the bilge pump, lights, USB chargers, etc. All wires are tucked away in pvc conduit for a clean, simple interior. Sea trials yielded 16 knots single handed and 13.5 knots with three butts aboard. At low speeds, range is around 5 hours. Her epoxy-ply-glass construction with interior benches and a foredeck mimics the last build. Rugged two part epoxy Alexseal paint (Cream #1150) was a wise choice, and the matte Epifanes varnish on oak parts seems to be the right amount of flare. The finish compliments the bronze hardware that is already salting towards green. Hints of who built her include some visible copper rivets, a french whipping on the standing grab bar, and a matching boat hook stowed in clips out of the way.
There will be more videos and photos to come, but for now she’s being used almost every day by her new family. I’m very grateful for the time we spent in the shop and the people that were involved along the way.
West ender extension table
Nice to build another one of these with some subtle updates, this time in hard maple. 42” -> 60” with a leaf stowed within. German glides.
Downeast cabinetry
I built and installed four units out on MDI for some summer folk, under the guidance of the talented designer, Molly Quesada and builder, Bob Clark. One vanity boasted large radius corners while floating 18” above the tile. The second vanity echoes with a smaller radius corner, while fit tight to the floor and walls. Both bathrooms have matching linen closets with soft close drawers and adjustable shelves. The slim shaker inset style hangs onto traditional reveals while it reduces some bulk, as some more modern built-ins are striving for. I was able to add a hidden compartment in one of the units for the generations ahead to enjoy - something I’ll be sure to keep doing where I can. More pics to come.
Sauna door
This door was designed to be very solid, with movement and drainage tolerances. Harsh, salty weather over this sauna, with often an oven-hot interior, will test this door over the decades. The client beautifully mortised the hinges and painted to match the trim. Simplicity at its best.
18’ canoe refresher
I replaced gunwales, breasthooks, and carry handles for this great little canoe right here in Belfast. I’m always game to squeeze in these small projects, since it seems not many other shops will nowadays. Satin varnish over sipo mahogany.
Chase 9’8” Calico skiff finish work
I shuffled this job into the schedule and am so pleased to see her ready for use. The Calico is a row/sail tender that can take a small motor too. She came in glued up, with just a few parts left to fit. I then applied fillets, epoxy coats, paint coats with bordered non-skid, varnish, and hardware. Kirby light grey and Petit Hatteras off white. Call Clint for the kit.
COMING UP
I’ve got some truly unique arched stained-glass window frames to build, that will be flanked by matching trim and cabinetry for a new house in Friendship. There’s a boat rudder, maybe two actually, to work up. There are some small yacht interior items for a repeat client, and a living room lamp to wire out of an antique barn beam. On the side, I’m going to start lofting Gartside’s 10’ double ended yacht tender (#105) to build traditionally - gotta get myself back to shows next summer, plus I need some time without glue all over me!
BOAT DESIGN CATALOG
Last newsletter, I shared the Maine Peapod and Catspaw Dinghy. Here I’d like to share three island commuter boats. I often wonder what combination of size, layout, and aesthetic would hit just right for islanders in Penobscot bay to get around in, so here’s an attempt that could be elaborated on.
Jiffy V 22’ - Arch Davis
This pilothouse boat is lobster boaty, but quicker to build. Dry, fast, and just small enough to squeeze into the last available slip for dinner reservations.
North Haven 24’/26’ - Sam Devlin
This modest lobsterboat for outboard power boasts cockpit space for hanging out and can be outfitted for two to sleep below at anchor. Dinner at anchor?
Fast OB 24’ - Pete Culler
This extremely rare hull could have the house reworked to make a very comfortable bay boat, that will make you late to dinner reservations because of the friends you just made.
Thank you so much for those who have been following, and those new to the list. Please check out the website soon for better photos and videos. I’m booking up the fall and winter so reach out with your dreams, and be well. - Elijah