Apparently, I uttered my comments about milder spring weather a little too soon. Today it’s snowing with 60 kph winds!
All things considered, I’m glad to have some inside boat work to keep my mind off the weather. The picture above shows some of the bits and pieces I’ve been making for the numerous blocks for the boat. I’m finally getting the hang of making the grommets (circular rope rings). The big improvement came when I stopped trying to use the slippery synthetics and resorted to organically grown natural hemp rope. The larger block shell above is made from walnut (because I got a great deal on it) while the smaller one is oak. Both have an oil finish. Also shown is the all-important waxed whipping twine.
The large double blocks will be for the mainsheet and perhaps for the mainsail halyards. Singles the same size will be used on the jib sheet and bowsprit. The small ones will be for the jib out-haul and mainsheet on the mizzen. All the sheaves are made from UHMW plastic from Lee Valley.
