First inlay reinforcement in

There is an adage amongst luthiers and boatbuilders" you can NEVER have too many clamps!

The inside reinforcement strip is glued and clamped - four layers of walnut about 3/4" x 3/4" altogether.

Speaking of boats I've been volunteering on a replica of the Virginia, also known as Maine's First Ship. The original was built the winter of 1607-1608, returned to England and in 1610 sailed to Jamestown. For the last month or so I've been working on the rudder.

When it's finished the rudder will be 7'-6" high, 3'-6" wide averge about 10" thick and weigh about 1100lbs. It's the antithesis of lutherie. Note the work environment. The rudder is too big to built in the boathouse, as was the mast. I get to work outside all winter. It's a good thing I'm a volunteer. They couldn't pay me enough to work in these conditions.
There are lots of good photos on the Maine's First Ship web site  We are scheduled to launch on June 7.