Building flats

• First measure out and cut the wood for the frame, this is the 4 pieces for the frame and the cross bars in the middle, depending on how tall the flat is will change the number of cross sections needed.
• Cross bars are always set at 2' distances from each other, these and the top and bottom bars must have the width of the side sections cut off so when put together the flat is the width you want and not to large.
• On the side pieces pre drill holes before you start to stop the wood from cracking when you put the screw in, and mark out the 2' intervals making sure they line up on both pieces. It also makes it quicker when putting the cross sections in because you already have it marked out where they need to be.
• Then choose which end your working from and start drilling the sections together, always start from one end and work down the side attaching the cross sections, once this is done work on the other side from the same end.
• Remember to make sure the wood is flush not only on the sides but at the top so when you put the skins on you don't get odd pieces sticking through, so also don't flip the flat over when putting on the second side.
• Use part threaded screws for this, they will pull the two pieces of wood together making it secure.
• Don't Berry the screw and if it wont go in don't keep pushing or the head will be ruined and you might not be able to get it out again.

• Next you pin the skin on, this needs measuring out onto the ply wood and then cut.
• Apply Glue to the frame along all sections and lay the Skin on top.
• line the skin up with the side you started at before with the frame making sure its flush here, then put the pins in across the top then down one side then the other then the bottom, making sure its flush as you go.
• Then mark out where the 2' intervals are so you can pin across the cross bars.
• Finally rout the edges to get rid of any over hang.