The Haida were no strangers to watercraft, but the development of modern technologies changed their lives and paved the way for the collective forgetting of their time-tested methods. They developed adzing wood for water resistance, which helped to make their canoes more durable. In their book, Stormy, they strive to learn why the Haida built their canoes the way they did for centuries.

Cedar strip canoes

This film by Canadian canoeist Jason Eke describes the building process of a cedar strip canoe. It is not a "how-to" guide, but a good overview of the process. You will need a radial arm saw and a table saw. In addition to a saw, you will need patience and persistence. This project takes anywhere from 150 to 200 hours to complete. Despite the length, it is not difficult to complete. However, the only downside is the patience required.

Kevlar canoes

One of the best things about Kevlar canoes is their durability, lightweight design, and ease of maintenance. Building one of these canoes in your own backyard is both simple and cost-effective. With basic tools, you can build a tripper canoe for extended wilderness expeditions or a single canoe for family adventures. The benefits of building a Kevlar canoe are many.

Birch bark canoes

If you've ever wanted to learn how to build birch bark canoe in the wild, you've come to the right place. The Manitoba Museum's curator of archaeology, Kevin Brownlee, provides a step-by-step tutorial. The process involves cleaning the spruce bark before working with the birch bark. Birch bark is shaped with fame.

Cattail leaf seats

If you've ever seen a canoe or kayak, you may have wondered how to build a seat from cattail leaves. Cattails are a perennial plant that grows in marshes and other areas that are prone to flooding. You can also find them in neighboring yards and fish ponds. The leaves are flat and do not contain any pith, but they do have sharp edges. Gathering cattail leaves begins in late July and goes on through early August. The leaves are harvested just before the first hard frost hits.

Wood-canvas canoes

Canoes are among the oldest forms of paddling in the world, and their development dates back to the 1870s. They feature wide, flexible ribs and a waterproof layer. They are often built on forms to give them a smooth shape, and many people believe that hand-built canoes are the best option for wilderness travel. Apart from being silent on the water, they also offer the chance to learn about woodworking.

Ojibwe tradition of canoe oars

The Ojibwe have an ancient connection to waterways, and canoe building is an integral part of their traditional lifestyle. This craft was lightweight and easy to carry across land and maneuver in the water. Birchbark canoes were also made for hunting, fishing, and transportation. The wood was abundant in the Great Lakes region, and the canoes were easily repaired when damaged.