The Amati xebec model which I am currently constructing presents a number of interesting problems. One of these is the masts which have square cross sections which taper continuously along the spar from the deck level to the mast caps. Traditional tapering techniques, which work well with round cross sections which can be spun, cannot be used on these parts. After puzzling over this problem I have devised a relatively simple process and inexpensive jig which give good results. The method is illustrated in the following photographs.
In the first, the top of the mast is shown with the cap defined on all four sides with razor cuts to the required depth and small chamfers. The piece is then inserted between two parallel pieces of thicker hardwood stock held together with machine screws and wing nuts (figure 2). The base of the mast and bottom of the cutout below the cap are set flush with top surface of the jig. The very thin wedge of material which protrudes from the top of the jig is then removed with a cabinet scraper (figure 3). The mast is then turned and the process repeated fir the remaining sides. The gentle tapers achieved for two opposing sides are shown in figure 4.
In the first, the top of the mast is shown with the cap defined on all four sides with razor cuts to the required depth and small chamfers. The piece is then inserted between two parallel pieces of thicker hardwood stock held together with machine screws and wing nuts (figure 2). The base of the mast and bottom of the cutout below the cap are set flush with top surface of the jig. The very thin wedge of material which protrudes from the top of the jig is then removed with a cabinet scraper (figure 3). The mast is then turned and the process repeated fir the remaining sides. The gentle tapers achieved for two opposing sides are shown in figure 4.
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