The ribs are placed quite close together, from 2 to 6 inches apart. Strictly speaking, the kayak has no keel, and any one of the six or seven side-pieces is as important as the other. The upper section is usually built before the bottom. It is placed upside down with heavy stones holding the upper rails in place, which gives the shape to the kayak. The ribs and side-pieces are then added.
Space is left at the top centre of the frame for the entrance hole.
The sewing has to be completed at one sitting before the skins dry, so several women help. Double water-proof stitching, similar to that used in the umiak cover, makes the boat watertight. Why gutskin trousers are needed as well as a frock is not evident. It may be that on account of the protection of the upturned front of the hole, the drawstring is not much used, and a complete waterproof suit is worn instead. It is quite long - 10 to 12 feet.