Crafting a dream

As thousands of New Zealanders will attest, there’s something inherently invigorating about building a boat.

The process of creating a functional, living artefact is particularly satisfying when – after months of slog – she finally slides and settles into the water for the first time. A product of your own, blistered hands, complete in her gleaming paint. Boatbuilding projects, of course, aren’t accessible to all. Not everyone has the space or inclination to tackle a job which might run over many years, and invariably streamline the bank balance for the privilege.

Fewer still are natural Diyers – and even when they are, they may lack the courage to construct something in which they – and their families – might risk their lives. Hammering a planter box into shape is one thing – committing the family to the briny in your first-ever, home-built vessel is a different prospect altogether.

So the DIY Stitchbird dinghy featured is not only a breakthrough, but also heart-warming on many levels. It offers creativity, it’s affordable, it’s technically undemanding and, perhaps most importantly, it presents an excellent opportunity for family bonding.

A kit-set project that removes the tool-handling apprehension and uncertainty from the process, it’s pre-cut components are literally stitched together with cable ties – it’s various parts held together with glue. Without wishing to sound condescending, a Stitchbird project should be within the capabilities of even the most ham-fisted Diyers.

The concept was developed by Auckland’s Charlie North, who says the idea for the kit-set boat germinated after he and his dad built a classic boat.

“It was an enormously positive experience for us both. What I learnt has stayed with me ever since. The memories will last even longer. I want every Stitchbird kit-set boat to provide experiences, lessons and memories for those who bring them to life.”

Indeed.