Louis Sauzedde Is Back in the Shop — And Back on YouTube!

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After a long-awaited return, TotalBoat ambassador Louis Sauzedde of Tips From a Shipwright is back — and his beloved boatbuilding wisdom is already in full swing.

For those who’ve been wondering, “Where’s Lou?” — you’re not alone. Fans from across the boating and woodworking communities have missed his unique storytelling, deep knowledge, and signature no-nonsense style. And now, he’s returned to his shop with a full slate of new projects and the launch of a bi-monthly video schedule. First up: a shop tour, a fresh look at his workspace, and a preview of what’s coming this summer.

“Well it’s awful nice to be back in my shop again — with some really attractive things to do.”

Orca: The Build Continues

The biggest project on deck is one that’s been stirring up excitement for months: the Orca build. Inspired by the iconic shark-hunting vessel from Jaws, Lou is deep into preparing Atlantic white cedar planks for the transom, aiming to faithfully recreate the weathered, stained aesthetic of the original film boat.

“Our intention is to get this transom complete — with the trim, the simulated lettering, even the little stain marks from the fasteners—just like the movie.”

And for those wondering about accuracy: there are no original plans. Lou is working from memory, deep experience, and a table full of reference photos to loft the shape of Orca from scratch.

What Else Is on Lou’s Plate?

It’s not just Orca keeping Lou busy. He’s also taking on repairs to his L. Francis Herreshoff auxiliary ketch, including a new stem and a full varnishing project (inside what he proudly calls “Lou’s Learning to Varnish Tent”). And yes — he’s using TotalBoat Gleam Marine Spar Varnish:

“This varnish I’ve been using by TotalBoat has been working out really, really well for me.”

He's also got another classic project in the works — a U38T Friendship sloop getting new floor timbers, and he's even planning to fire up an old Yanmar diesel with a little help from the pros.

Vintage Equipment, New Energy

A walk around the shop reveals vintage Powermatic saws, a Crescent shift saw, and a setup that balances compact efficiency with the needs of a full-scale boat build. The shop may be tight, but with Lou's organization and creative routing of power tools, it's fully equipped for the job.

And yes, that legendary piece of the original Orca movie boat? It’s in the shop too, soon to be sliced into commemorative plaques for fans and supporters.

The Community That Keeps It All Afloat

This return wouldn’t be possible without the viewers and patrons who stuck with Lou through his time away. He’s the first to admit that without early support — and even starting this project on a Social Security check — the Orca dream wouldn’t be possible.

“The patrons and subscribers… they really held this whole thing together.”

If you're excited to see what's next — and want to help make the Orca build a reality — consider joining the Tips From a Shipwright Patreon community or subscribing on YouTube.

Shop through Lou's affiliate link here.

Watch the Comeback: Lou’s Shop Tour

📺 Lou is Back – Shop Tour (Watch on YouTube)
Episode 13 of the Orca build drops Friday, May 30, with more photos and tips coming soon.

“We’re back and gearing up for an eventful summer.”

We’re just as excited as you are to follow Lou’s journey — and proud to support his work with the same TotalBoat products trusted by pros and DIYers alike. Welcome back, Lou!