Skua

Posted photo of my friend Andy Stroude rowing the Skua @ Mystic this past June. I've only
had her out for a good row twice. Am determined to get in (at least) a 3rd before year's end.
For one thing, I want to fit Clint's oar buttons to a pair of Shaw & Tenney 7 1/2 footers & see
how I like them compared to the Douglas "buttons" shown in the same photo.

Spent a great Saturday with Clint Chase getting out material needed to start turning the looms for his oars and discussing various "matters maritime." Also able to add some photos related
to this new activity for Water Witch Woodworking. Life is good : )!

I mentioned leather bailers. Added photo of prototype model. Aesthetically, a world class step
beyond the ubiquitous Clorox bottle! Functionally, outstanding--doesn't scratch or mar the
interior of a wooden boat, "ergonomically correct" fit and balance allow for extended use without
excessive tiring or muscle cramping (on a comparative basis, of course) and, it's efficient: A full
pint + of water per "throw." All thanks to Ben Fuller, who's been using his for 30 years and was
kind enough to share the design with us.

2011 has been a very good year. Tallow sales continue to increase. Product line has expanded
to include oar leather kits, custom wood turnings, additional "comfort zone" products and custom oars and rowing accessories. Newest addtions included Med Chandler's hand-forged
rigger's knives and Ben Fuller designed Leather Bailers. Website upgrade efforts continue.
Also, the boatbuilder now has (after too many years without) his very own excellent rowing
craft, a woodstrip Skua. Have had it on the water twice and am thoroughly delighted with it.
Hope for at least one more outing before Winter sets in.