Caulking
Caulking is an ancient craft technique used in the waterproofing of wooden hulls, in which a long lasting and seawater proof joint is created between the planks.
The caulking expert, the caulker, inserts calico by hand using a special wooden mallet and a particular flat-headed chisel. Traditionally, calico or hemp are used, impregnated with tar.
It is a difficult and precise technique involving not only the sense of touch but also that of hearing, as the caulker judges his work from the sound of the mallet on the chisel.
In ancient times eight years of apprenticeship were required in order to become a master caulker.
"To take caulking seriously, you have to enter into the crack yourself, along with the fibre, (...) see with it’s eyes. If you manage to do that, you will understand how the water tries to get in, because you will have the water's eyes.”
Bernard Moitessier,
Tamata and the Alliance,
Incontri Nautici, Roma 1994
Bernard Moitessier,
Tamata and the Alliance,
Incontri Nautici, Roma 1994