> My rough rule of thumb: Think of the kayak as a barrel. Figure the
> circumference at the widest point on the boat. Be generous. You will need
> at least enough full-length strips (or the equivalent) to cover the
> circumference. If you use 3/4 inch wide strips you will need more than if
> you use 1 inch wide strips. If you use 1/2 inch wide strips you will need
> even more.

> For example: A kayak has a width of 24 inches. I multiply it by 3 ( not
> quite Pi, but this is not quite a circle) and get a circumference of 72
> inches. Thus, I'd plan on having 72 full length, 1 inch wide strips on
> hand. With 3/4 inch strips I'd need 96 strips (96 times 3/4 equals 72
> inches). With 1/2 inch wide strips I'd get 144.

> If I knew the exact circumference -- something I could get by measuring
> around the biggest building frame, I'd go with that.

Paul, the widwest point is 28 inch I think I will rip one more board that will give me 15 1/4 inch by 3/4 inch strips. Really this cedar that I got for the mill is a real pretty red with some tight knots (some loss) the clear pine looks good but I think I will just use for the sheer line and the pattern and use the cedar for the rest. Thanks for the help. Robert

> Since only a few of the strips are used full length, you'll find that this
> method of estimating gives a number of strips that is on the high side.
> You can prbably get along with less. If you carefully save the excess when
> trimming a long piece to fit, you'll find that one long piece can serve as
> two (or sometimes 3) shorter pieces.

> If your strips are 3/4 inches wide, it sounds like you have enough. Pick
> out the nicest looking ones and set them aside so you'll have them for the
> deck. It is tempting to start with them, but if you do the hull first you
> will be putting the nicest looking wood in spots that no one will see.

> Best of luck with your project.

> Paul Jacobson