Skin on Frame (traditional and modern)

We make a variety of Skin on Frame boats, both traditional (using the Chris Cunningham described ‘Inuit’ method, fitting the boat to a specific paddler, using anthropomorphic data supplied by them) or modern Fuselage framed boats of specific design and size.

SOF boats of both types are made using a combination of artificial sinew and Inuit type lashings, also wooden pegs (dowels). Glue and metal fastenings are neither used nor needed.

Species used in the construction of SOF boats include…Douglas fir, Western red cedar, Spruce, Larch and Pitch pine. Plywoods used can include marine grade Okoume and epoxy coated Birch. Our preferred skin covering is medium/heavy Polyester, because of the range of coatings it accepts and its ability to not get baggy, when wet, unlike Nylon. We can, and have, occasionally constructed these kayaks using re-claimed timber of appropriate quality.

Steam bent oak cockpit rings can be either Keyhole or Ocean (smaller), diameter.

Featured kayak above…. fuselage framed ‘Shad’ designed by Kudzu Craft USA… £2200

LENGTH  5360mm  ( 17' 5" )
BEAM  590mm   ( 23" )
COCKPIT ID.   785 x 420mm
KNEE HEIGHT   270mm
BACK HEIGHT   200mm
WEIGHT   14.5kg
FOOT  MAX 11.5uk.

Contact us to talk about your requirements and find out whats currently in stock: chris@selkiekayaks.co.uk