> As someone who is trying to sell plans yet is a firm beleiver in the value
> of trying boats before you purchase/build, this is a problem for me. I
> would really rather people try my boats before they start building. I want
> people to be happy with the boat they get, and everyone is going to have a
> different idea on what their ideal kayak is.

> However, even though people all over the world have built my designs, they
> are rather diffuse so it is hard for most people to get into one of my
> boats to build. If I am going to sell plans, I need to hope that most of
> my customers are willing to get the plans without ever trying the boat or
> I will not be able to sell many.

> Instead, I urge people to try as many other boats as they can. Take a
> class if you have never been in a kayak before. This will give you a feel
> for what you like and help you make a more educated decision.

I to never paddled a kayak before I built one. Where I live in noth western ontario canada touring kayaks are not all that commom. I live about an hours drive from paddlers paradise (my opion) Qutico Park on a five day trip last summer I only saw one other kayaker and that was one the way, out lots of canoes if ten in five days is alot.IF you like calm water endless miles of paddling I highly recommend Qutico park as atrip of a life time. J.D