> Anyone want to give some advice to an eager, if uninitiated, novice?

> I'd like to build a strip touring kayak. Have never tackled any similar
> project, but I owned and did a lot of work on an old 34' wooden ketch, and
> have done a fair share of woodworking around the house. I know lessons
> might be in order, but time off from work and family, plus expense may put
> that out of the question. Would I be better off in investing in materials
> and tools?

> What books should I read (I've ordered Nicks, and several back issues of
> wooden boat for background)? Are there others that are well written and
> give good explanations?

> There seems to be a wealth of plans out on the market. Any experience with
> designs in the 17 to 18 foot length? What should I be looking for? I
> appreciate any and all advice/discussion here or you can E-mail me
> directly.

Having been seared by the firestorm generated by your innocuous questions, you would be excused for concluding that 'yak builders are all crazy. Maybe so. In any case, the degeneration of this thread to ad hominem broadsides has nothing to do with you, and I hope you still feel like building a boat.

In my opinion, you can't go too far wrong building any of the designs on the market. Until you get enough experience in lots of different boats you won't have enough perspective to make informed decisions. But don't let that deter you from taking the first step. We were all in your position at one time. The boat you build will be your favorite until you see or paddle something you like better, and evolution begin to occur. Don't expect that the characteristics important to you now will continue to be so later.

Stitch and glue will get you on the water the fastest, but strip planking can produce more aesthetic shapes. Your first boat probably won't be your last, so don't dither too much about details. There is no sense in worrying until you know what to worry about...