How to Make a Raft

An open body of water is an invitation for adventure. And whether you want to float the current or just stay afloat on the open water, there's a simple raft you can make with basic lumber and a couple of pieces of Styrofoam.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Three 2-by-3-by-8 pine boards Six 1-by-6-by-6 pine boards Saw Box 3-inch nails Hammer Two sheets 1-inch thick foam insulation
Three 2-by-3-by-8 pine boards
Six 1-by-6-by-6 pine boards
Saw
Box 3-inch nails
Hammer
Two sheets 1-inch thick foam insulation

Step 1

Start by cutting down one of your 2-by-3-by-8 pine boards in to 2-1/2 foot pieces. You'll need three at this length.

Step 2

Cut down your remaining 2-by-3-by-8 boards to 6 feet.

Step 3

Lay out your frame. Place two of your 2-by-3-by-8 boards parallel to each other and then put the three cut down 2-by-3-by-8 boards in between the uncut ones, one on either end and one in the middle.

Step 4

Nail the frame together with the hammer and nails. You should have a wood frame that's 6 feet long and 2 feet, 10 inches across.

Step 5

Take your saw and cut your 1-by-6-by-6 boards in half so they are each 3 feet. You'll need 12 of these for the decking.

Step 6

Affix the decking boards to the frame with a hammer and 3-inch nails.

Step 7

Place foam insulation in the open areas of the frame underneath the decking.

Tips & Warnings

You may want to put the foam in after the raft is in the water or affix it with a waterproof adhesive such as Liquid Nails.

Article Written By Patrick Cameron

Patrick Cameron is a freelance writer with 10 years of diverse experience in consumer goods branding, promotions and retail communications. He works out of his home in Denver, Colo. He received his Bachelor of Arts in mass communication from the University of Minnesota.

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