Origamiboats forum has been created to explore all aspects of a unique and revolutionary method of building frameless steel sailboats. The technique is known as "folded steel" boatbuilding, or "origami steel" boatbuilding. Many of the steel boats of this type on the BC coast have been designed by Brent Swain. The type is also built in aluminum as well, though steel is most common. Examples of these tough-as-nails yachts have circumnavigated this old earth, and survived intact some hairy scrapes with unforgiving objects. Browse the files and photos sections for images which illustrate how these boats are built, and the places they have visited around the globe.

We are here to share notes and experiences on construction, performance, maintenance, cruising, rig choices, living aboard, and whatever else strikes your fancy regarding the type. The group is moderated by Alex Christie and Brent Swain of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.

For those interested in seeing up close how the boats are built there is a very detailed 3+ hour instructional DVD (2 disc) showing the construction of a 36 foot hull from flat plate to bare hull by Alex Christie with Brent Swain; This is now available worldwide from Alex at achristie@shaw.ca, $54 USD, which includes all shipping costs. For info on ordering books and plans from Brent, contact him at brentswain38@yahoo.ca or find both of us in the File section on the menu under Contact Information.