Interesting thread! I am finishing up my second CLC boat, a Tred Avon with a strip deck. Another thing to consider with plans is that if you want to do any changing such as materials, the kits are limited. I think that the boats from kits look like they assemble a little better than the plans-built. Meaning, I had to cut and straighten the stern of my Cape Charles, and while I did better on the Tred Avon, I can still see spots that are not as fair as what I have seen in kit-built boats. I really dont think the plans save much money, especially if you pay yourself for the time in making the kit. Plans do allow the expense to be spread out, which helps. They are fun to make and paddle, go for it!