Using free boat plans to build your own boat is an economical way for you to create a boating lifestyle for yourself, not to mention the satisfaction and enjoyment you get from doing it all yourself.

To assist the first time amateur boat builder here is an overview of the level of wood working skills needed to build your own boat.

The level of wood working skills needed skills will depend to a large degree on the type of boat you want to build and the design. However if you do not have a high level of wood working skills then using free boat plans to build your boat is a very good option to consider because it is possible to build your boat without requiring much in the way of wood working skills or needing to purchase special tools.

Other advantages of building your boat using boat plans include - ensuring that you are using the best and easiest boat building methods available, that you have access to expert advice and assistance while building your boat as well as having access to very detailed building notes which makes the whole building process much easier.

Another advantage that should not be forgotten is that you will also be able to actively get involved with any online community that the boat plan supplier provides so you can share problems, experiences and knowledge with fellow amateur boat builders.

As I mentioned though it is possible to build your boat without requiring much wood working skills and special tools. This is because some companies supplying boat plans use do not necessarily design wooden boats, though they do also include wood boat design if you specifically want to use them. This is because they use proven fiberglass boat deigns, engineering and materials. In the larger boats you can use more wood working skills if you like on the cabinetry but again these can be done by using easy to install prefabricated moldings if you prefer.

You will still need though some basic wood working skills like being able to cut plywood sheets, or cut wooden strips but because there is no beveling or difficult assemblies required there is no need for special tools. The basic tools that will be required include hand tools like a jig saw and sander. There is certainly no need for tools like band saws, routers or jointer.

In the larger boats you can use more advanced wood working skills if you like on cabinetry but for the less skilled you can still use easy to install prefabricated moldings which are just as good and as strong.

So to summarize, if you want to build your own boat but are questioning if you have the wood working skill needed then buy using boat plans you don't need anything but the mast basic skill and tools to proceed and you will also have plenty of support to help you every step of the way.