As the old freighter/racing canoe has been successful for its owner in races, I decided that it would be prudent to take the lines off of it for future reference.

I start by using masking tape to establish the centerline. On that I mark 12"intervals, then set perpendiculars.

I also ran a tight string over the keel/centerline and measured from that reference line to the bottom and to the gunnels. This measurements indicate the rocker and sheerline. While I was I at it I also measured the widths at each station.

Once that data is collected I plot it out on a large sheet of paper that is prepared with graph lines.

I then use this pointy stick thing to take the points of the curve of the hull at each station.

And transfer the points to the curve. The points are connected and establish the shape of the canoe hull. This is not an exact drawing of the canoe, as in a new canoe should not be built from these line, but it is close enough that I can refine it through the lofting process.