After the ribs are well dried, I have to fair the surfaces. I've tried all manner of sanding blocks, but the best, by far, is this home made on. I use a large belt sander belt, this one is 36 grit, and is from a 6" X 48" is belt. I made up a Styrofoam block for the inside and away we go.

The gunnel ends are shaped to a mortise to secure the tenon shaped stem end. This is the typical method used by almost all Canadian canoe companies. It works well and I continue to use it.

And here it is ready to start planking.