> Ok, I've searched the archive and didn't find my answer. I've just started
> building an expedition single and to make a long story short, I purchased
> some cypress wood from a local mill which is a full 1" by 5"
> inches. I cut the strips into 1/4" by 1" strips. After cutting
> the cove and bead I have 1/4" by 7/8" strip. When I tried to put
> the first strip along the sheer line I discovered that 7/8" width
> strip does not have enough elasticity(sp?) to follow the sheer line. I
> then cut the strip in half and ended up with a two 1/4" by 3/8"
> strips which are very flexible. I don't mind the extra work of cutting the
> board in half and rerouting the cove/bead on one side but I was wondering
> if/how much strength I am losing by using a smaller width strip. My
> initial thought is that a narrow strip may not distribute the force of an
> impact as well as a wide strip. I understand the concept that the
> fiberglass provides alot of the strength but I would like to hear some
> opinions as to the pros/cons of using the smaller width. The smaller
> strips really makes the stripping alot easier as well as providing better
> joints - of course I've only put on a couple of strips, so I look forward
> to hearing everyone's opinions...

> Thanks,

> Paul

> pbsigmon@earthlink.net Paul: I personally like the look of smaller width strips. I used 1/2 inch butt joint strips to build my canoe and found they were easier to bend, made prettier curves, and produced more sound joints than wider (3/4) strips. I suspect using thinner strips would also create a stronger hull in the same way a structural beam is streightened by many laminations.

Of course there is more work involed but the up-side is that you will have longer to save up for your next set of plans.

Happy stripping.

KM