Below is a list of useful tools to have at hand when starting a project
Block Planes, preferably small and medium sizes
For shaping stem pieces, gunwales
and other finish work.
Spokeshave
You'll need a spokeshave for shaping stems..
Power Drill
Used for many tasks throughout the project.
Sanding Blocks, rigid and flexible
These are used for fairing the boat off.
Router
For producing radiuses on gunwhales etc.
Scrapers
Useful for removing cured glue.
Wedges and Brackets
Used to hold strips in place during construction if you have chosen not to use staples.
Staple Gun
You will be using this a lot if you choose to staple the strips to the mould.
Spring Clamps
You will need about five of these. They are extremely helpful when you need and extra hand to hold down a piece of wood or hold up the cloth while you fibreglass the inside of the hull.
Staple Lifter
If you choose to strip your hull using staples, this is the tool you will need to pull those staples out.
Dowel Drills and Plug Cutters
These will mostly be used for attaching the stems and, if you choose, for putting screws into the gunwales. They are inexpensive and will make the job of getting screw heads flush much easier.
Chisels
You are likely to need a good 3/4 inch (20mm) chisel. However, we highly recommend a good set of basic sizes. If you don't already have a good set, this is your opportunity to get one. A good set of well maintained chisels will last a lifetime
G Clamps
You can't have too many of these. You will need them to put the gunwale in place
Wallpaper Steamer
This is one part of a poor man's steam box. You will need this for steaming the inner and outer stem pieces as well as the deck supports if you are building a decked canoe. The other part is a 5 foot (152cm) length of 3 inch (75mm) diameter PVC pipe, capped at one end.
Belt Sander
This is good for shaping scarf joints. It will make quick and accurate work of it.
Random Orbital Sander
If you don't already have one, buy one with a vacuum attachment. it will be worth the extra cost.
Half Mask
A good quality mask with particulate filters will be needed when cutting and sanding. For your health's sake make sure you use one.
Pullsaw
These saws are invaluable for their flexibility. Used extensively for cutting off the ends of strips flush to the stems, notching out support members for the decked canoes, sizing up the gunwales and lots of other jobs.
Jigsaw
You will mostly use this for cutting the decks and the forms. But if you have a deep-throated band saw, by all means use it.
Workshop Vacuum
This is a useful piece of equipment when attached to your orbital sander. It provides a healthier environment and far more pleasant working conditions.