Rotary Floats Your Boat
Weldon Spring City Park
Thursday, July 4, 2013
In partnership with the City of Weldon Spring’s Independence Day Festivities
How To Build A Cardboard Boat
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Just like building that high school or college float for the local parade – you start with a
group of friends, a design and supplies. And, your favorite motivator – maybe some Jimmy
Buffet tunes?
Use the largest pieces of cardboard available. We supply 8 sheets of 4' x 8' cardboard in
each kit to help you get started. These may be enough, but we may be able to help you get
more if needed so just give us a call!!
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Decide what kind of boat you want to build. Some designs are better for cutting through the
surf and others are built for beauty, just remember that the goal is to make it to the finish
line! We’ve heard that the slant front types are fastest and easiest to row!
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Make several layers – at least two or three – and don't forget that each layer should be ever
so slightly larger than whatever layer is inside of it. In other words, the first layer is the
inside layer. The next layer would be ¼" larger on all sides to tightly overlap. The third layer
would be another ¼" larger than the second layer. The more layers the stronger and longer
lasting your boat will be!! Use glue between layers so they bond into one solid piece. (for
example: Liquid Nail, Gorilla Glue, adhesive, any no- mixing required glue is OK!)
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Creasing/folding the cardboard is much stronger than cutting and taping the seam. Be
patient with the folding process. Sometimes the best way to fold is to score it rather than
cut all the way through. When making a larger boat (3 or more people) you will need to butt
sheets together, stagger and overlap seams at various locations. Tape all the seams as you
go along in the building process!
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The cardboard sheets are 4’x8’ which can make a boat to hold 2 adults but it will be a tight
fit.
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Remember that household paint is acceptable and will help to waterproof your boat (no
sealants allowed) so consider putting on a couple of coats before you decorate this wacky
watercraft!
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Theme prizes will be awarded so give it your best effort!
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Friendly reminder: There is a list of building material no-no’s so double-check the list to be
sure your boat doesn’t get disqualified for using any of them.
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Any kind of cardboard, paper (or even sonotube) is legal to use. And if you need more
cardboard you can contact us and we will check our supply.
Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Cottleville/Weldon Spring
For more information:
www.CWSRotary.org
[email protected]
www.facebook.com/CottlevilleWeldonSpringRotary
314.378.7888