In a perfect world, the crafts under construction at the Boat School are built on commission. An owner has signed a contract, put down a deposit, and is patiently waiting to take delivery of a meticulously built boat that preserves a traditional West Coast wooden boat design.
Students are more engaged by commissions than if they are building a boat on spec, because they
feel the owner’s excitement as the boat takes shape. Owners have the satisfaction of knowing they didn’t just buy a boat, they launched a few dozen careers.
But not all commissions are a good fit for the Boat School. If a boat is too large, students won’t be exposed to all aspects of construction. If a customer wants a flat-bottom, flat-sided plywood boat, students won’t be exposed to all the techniques they need to learn in contemporary craft construction.
The ideal project gives students experience with all key aspects of the curriculum, is simple enough to complete in six to nine months, and contributes to the preservation of a traditional West Coast design.
For inquiries about commissions, contact [email protected]
