Jinnie - Episode 11: Apron & Stem: Part 3

Welcome to Episode 11! In Part 3 of Jinnie’s Apron & Stem restoration, we join boatbuilder Alan and our apprentices at Pioneer Sailing Trust as they take a closer look at one of the more challenging stages of the whole boat restoration process. It’s a careful, steady process that requires patience, precision and plenty of problem-solving! The team begins by locating the end of the existing apron and using a plywood bridle to help position the stem. With multiple angles and bevels to consider, getting everything to line up correctly is no easy task. The stem and apron are bolted together, so accuracy is essential. After gluing many thin pieces of timber together to create the new components, it’s time to see whether the patterns match the original apron and stem before work begins on the new pieces. The apron and stem prove more complex than the transom, with their multiple shapes and bevels adding an extra layer of difficulty. The original apron itself is made in two parts, meaning the team must take great care to preserve its shape and avoid any breakages. Apprentice Leon gets hands-on, measuring the widths of the old apron and transferring them onto the new timber to establish the beading and ghostline. Every measurement matters, every angle counts, and every stage offers another opportunity to learn. It’s a real learning curve — pardon the pun! — as the team works together to bring this historic West Mersea oyster skiff one step closer to restoration. ⚓ Join us for Part 3 and see traditional boatbuilding skills being passed on to the next generation at Pioneer Sailing Trust. #JinnieTheSkiff #BoatRestoration #TraditionalBoatbuilding #PioneerSailingTrust #Apprenticeships #WoodenBoats #MaritimeHeritage #WestMersea