So as I mentioned, I’ve been going down the path of teaching myself to shape. Figured starting with wood and simple designs would make the most sense. As you can see I’ve got a few Alaias of various shapes, sizes, and woods. Just playing around to see what works best from a shaping and riding perspective. Some will be just oiled and others I am going to have to glass…like the two on the right.
I used a balsa like wood known as Plumajillo for the two on the right…thanks Danny for the tip on where to get it. One is an Alaia and the other is a solid wood short board of sorts…In retrospect I would have made it more fishy or eggy, but hey, live and learn. It may go…still need to work out the rocker…so much to learn. I will need to make sure they are well sealed too. Although the simple designs are a far cry from a Wegener or Hess, they are a starting point and those guys will continue to be an inspiration for me.
Even though I’ve shaped a few now, I can hardly comprehend the craftsmanship of the masters out there. It’s a really special experience to try and shape. Requires a lot of patience and hard work, but it is very therapeutic and satisfying even when your finished product is asymmetrical, your rails come out wonky, or you have no rocker….pretty classic! Just like surfing it’s something that I don’t think you can ever truly master in all its forms…there is always something new to explore.
![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](https://i0.wp.com/img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png)
Bluebird Surf 