Hi Tom,

Like you, I like building boats but have a limited budget. I have been making S&G kayaks from reinforced 3mm luaun with spruce trim for very reasonable costs. The epoxy and the fiberglass cloth being the greatest cost factor.

For my own use I will often just tape the seams and use a couple of strategically placed patches of fiberglass cloth. A couple of coats of resin and some paint/varnish to finish. This keeps the cost and the weight down - 30 to 35 pounds is typical for a 16' 'yak. Soft shore landings and quiet waters don't require the same level of durability as a surf/rock environment.

I sell (or trade - got my 30-06 that way) the kayaks that don't fit in the garage for a reasonable cost - enough to cover materials plus a bit for a new "toy" for the workshop. Covers the cost of the "habit".

Happy boat building.

Hank