"Newshound" wrote in message ...
I'm looking for local boat builders, (clubs, school groups, etc.), who can
help get a novice started in wooden boat building. I went to a wooden boat
building show in October and was greatly impressed. I live in the Myrtle
Beach area.

Really, with the technology, materials, and printed material
available, as well as groups like this, there is no reason that an
average person should need a boat school, really.

If you want to build a traditional lapstrake boat, start with "The
Dory Book" by John Gardner. If you want to build a S+T, start with
"Build the New Instant Boats" by Dynamite Payson at instantboats.com
for smaller boats, or that grouchy old Jaques at Bateau.com for a
larger boat. Both have information, plans, help available, adequate
for any beginner to have a successful first build. I also sell a
couple of boat plans but they are not designed to "teach" the methods
as those noted above, my plans more just define the parts and building
order.

There are many other options, but these are the easiest in my opinion.
Note for full disclosure, Dynamite Payson and InstantBoats.com are
clients of my "real" business, not directly related to boating. I make
no commissions or benefits for reccomending his books and plans here,
or anywhere else.

All of this said, you will get a lot from a school that you may never
get from a book or newsgroup, really depends on your priorities. I am
just suggesting an alternative.. at least I am not hawking a pram or 5
meter planing sailboat to a guy looking for a rowboat...
Scotty, The Backyard Renegade
http://www.smallboats.com