Watch As We Conquer The 863 Stages Of Crafting Our Cockpit Stairs! (MJ Sailing - Ep 326)
Working with foam and fiberglass has so many more steps than plywood and screws. Because of resins and cure times, our new cockpit steps have received 2-3 hours of attention each day for the past week.
When we first ordered our 3D module kit from Max Cruise, it came with ALL the foam we would need to build out the interior, including a few very large sheets of foam cored fiberglass to cut into whatever sizes we needed. Those we use to store next to the tent and cut down here and there as we make smaller bulkheads and pieces for furniture.
The reason I mention this is we should have had enough foam for all of our projects, yet somewhere along the way, that pile of spare foam kept growing smaller, and not all of it was being used by us. We had no idea where some of that extra foam walked off to, but we weren't left with enough for ourselves, and for projects like building our cockpit steps and doors.
Now that we have ourselves set up with a large (flat and level) 4x8 table in the tent though, we've been able to start making our own pieces for these projects. Which means we can finally move forward with the cockpit steps!!
Follow along with Matt as he goes through the arduous task of turning our plywood mockup steps into the real thing. First is making the new foam sheets to act as side bulkheads, and then measuring and cutting the steps themselves. Applying them one level at a time to keep everything level, he is then able to attach the side bulkhead (which will be one side of a cockpit locker).
Before they can go into place, the backside is glassed together, and after sitting overnight, the front can be done. Then as one solid structure, the entire piece gets bonded into the cockpit and then glassed in.
We knew this would be a long task...something that has gotten a few hours of attention each day, and will continue to do so through blending it in to the surrounding areas. But it gets us one steps further in the remaining glass work for this build!
In this episode, Matt also gives updates on our new freezer installed under the settee, and we see what Jessica has been working on and why it hasn't deserved much camera time.
We hope you enjoy!
P.S. If you have spring projects on your own boat and would like 5% off your purchase of Total Boat products, make sure to use our link here!
https://www.totalboat.com/MJSailing
Much love,
Jessica, Matt & Georgie
Link to our boat: https://maxcruisemarine.com/
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Thank you!, Matt & Jessica
Videos made by Jessica, featuring Matt and Georgie.
00:00 - Transferring our plywood form, to foam core
03:08 - Shaping it one step at a time. Literally.
07:08 - Glassing the structure's back side
08:00 - We added expanding foam to our freezer
12:35 - Extra strength! Glassing the front of the steps
15:30 - What has Jessica been working on?
17:42 - Our cockpit steps get bonded in place!!
19:52 - Closing
Music:
Broken Clouds - Tellsonic
Lets Give a Damn - OTE
Middle of Time - Sebastian Winskog
Ruins - Origo
The River's Gonna Cry When You're Gone - Loving Caliber
Pandemonium (Tribute Version) - The Mondays
Camera equipment used:
- Google Pixel 7
- GoPro Hero 8
- DJI Osmo Action 4
Previous Boats: 1983 Trisalu 37 - custom aluminum, built in Quebec (Elements of Life) Where we've been: 2.5 year refit in Indiantown,
Florida; Abacos, Bahamas; St. Barth's; St. Maarten; Antigua; Saba; Azores; Ireland; Scotland; Norway; England 1989
Sabre 34 Targa (Serendipity)
Where We Sailed Her: U.S. - Bahamas - Jamaica - Cuba - Cayman Islands - Honduras - Guatemala - Belize - Mexico - Bermuda - Azores - Madeira - Canary Islands - Sint Maarten - BVI's - USVI's
Editing software: Adobe Premier Pro
Website: http://www.mjsailing.com
Facebook: / mattandjessicasailing
Instagram: / mattandjessicasailing
& / mj_wayfaring
MJ Sailing
From Arctic ice in a custom aluminum monohull to building a high-performance 42ft catamaran, Matt and Jessica of MJ Sailing define technical excellence.
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Video Overview: Crafting Our Cockpit Stairs – Episode 326
In this exciting episode of MJ Sailing, we delve into the intricacies of crafting and installing cockpit stairs on their sailboat. The journey is filled with valuable lessons, technical challenges, and rewarding moments that every boating enthusiast can learn from.
Episode Summary
The episode begins with MJ Sailing reflecting on their previous efforts in mockup stages of crafting cockpit steps. After visiting the Max Cruise yard in Vietnam and gaining insights from similar designs, they are ready to bring their vision to life.
Designing and Preparing Templates
To create the perfect match for their cockpit stairs, MJ Sailing meticulously works on designing templates and prepares foam core sheets for lamination. The emphasis is on ensuring the steps not only blend seamlessly with the boat’s aesthetics but also provide durability and impact resistance.
Bonding and Glassing Process
The heart of the episode revolves around bonding the prepared pieces together, creating a sturdy structure. As each piece is meticulously placed, adjustments are made to ensure perfect alignment and levelness.
Final Installation
A pivotal moment in the episode showcases the final installation of the stairs into their designated place. Attention is given to ensuring a smooth and secure fit, addressing gaps, and aligning the steps with precision.
Technical Challenges
<!– wp:list ->- The process of finding the right angle for each step.
- Synchronizing the steps to perfectly match the boat’s existing design elements.
- Facing accessibility challenges during the installation phase due to limited reach in tight spaces.
Skills Developed
<!– wp:list ->- Meticulous measuring and cutting techniques.
- Troubleshooting skills for aligning pieces and resolving gaps.
- Creative problem-solving when faced with design limitations.
The craftsmanship in crafting these cockpit stairs is not just about creating a functional space but also about enhancing the aesthetic appeal of their sailboat. MJ Sailing’s dedication to detail and precision makes this episode both educational and inspiring for anyone looking to undertake a similar project.
Conclusion
With the cockpit stairs now in place, MJ Sailing’s boat has gained both utility and beauty. This episode is a testament to the hard work, patience, and meticulous planning required for such an intricate project. It encourages viewers not only to explore their own boats’ possibilities but also to appreciate the depth of knowledge and skills needed in the boating and sailing industry.
Next Steps
MJ Sailing looks forward to further refinements, focusing on finishing off their Galley and giving the staircase a fresh coat of paint. With each project, they continue to add value not only to their boat but also to the viewers’ understanding of sailing adventures.
Explore Further
If you’re captivated by this episode and inspired to tackle your own boating or sailing project, consider exploring resources on boat maintenance, sailing techniques, and woodworking for boats. Engage with the community of sailors and boat enthusiasts online and join forums where such topics are discussed passionately. With the right guidance, determination, and patience, your dream boat improvements can become a reality.
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