The panels being stitched up with cable ties.

The transom has a camber, which is pre-set using two temporary pieces of ply. Once the boat is taped, these are removed and the camber remains

The sheerline becoming evident.

The hull shape emerging. One of the best things about stitch and tape construction in the speed with which the boat comes together, and the lack of moulds required.

The inside joints have been taped. You can see the 9mm plywood flat bottom panel tapering away to the transom.

The for'd bulkhead always takes some force to push it into position.

The side bulkheads in place, with the daggerboard case and storage lockers visible in the background

Once the decks go on the whole boat becomes hugely rigid. This is a satisfying step for the home builder - the end is in sight!

The Trouper 12 has an anchor storage locker in the foredeck. This compartment drains through a small hole in the side of the stem post.

Epoxy coating the hull to give a good base for the paint.

Finishing the insides. The seat supports can be seen clearly

The stem post has a backing piece set notched into the breasthook to give the appearance of a traditional construction

Gluing the gunwale on. Screws can be used, with the holes filled afterwards with timber bungs

The inside painted and ready to receive the seats

The boat upside down with the undercoat on

A few days away from going to the show.

Just prior to being loaded in the roof rack

On the water under oars.

The bow is slightly out of the water. A single oarsman would usually sit in the forward position to row.

A pretty shape - we are looking forward to trying her under sail