Depending on whether you want to build a stripper(Nick Schade's book The Strip Built Kayak on this web site) or a S&G (Chris K's book The Kayak Shop). They both discuss the merits of the various designs in their book and have a general, overall look at what you are looking for in a kayak and what design elements will allow you to get there.

Also, If you are a bit more specific, you can jump over to the DESIGN board as well as here and get all kinds of input. The advantange you have in posting to these boards is that there is a varied and broad base of experience (versus the one veiwpoint offered in the books).

If you decide to post here some items you need to fill us in on are: -what type of water will you be paddling on. sandy or rocky. ocean. flatwater. streams -do you plan to do any expeditions -do you prefer strip or stitch and glue designs -it seems obvious, but do you want to work from plans or a kit (this, either way you go, will limit your choices) -what is your size. this determines size, cockpit opening, etc.

There are others, but you get the idea. Answer a few of these questions and you will get a lot of input to help you in your decision.

> I am new to this. (The page and kayaks in general) I have the desire to
> build a kayak more for the pleasure of building than for the kayak, but as
> I don't want to end up with something I'd rather not use, I was wondering
> if someone could direct me twords some literature on deciding what kind of
> kayak would be right for me and for the conditions in my area.