I recently stripped a canoe with a pattern that required some beveled strips, and I put a bead and cove on the others, so I've tried both ways. The bead and cove is not necessary, however, it sure makes it easier to fit the strips and keep them aligned between the forms. If you have a table router that will allow you to cut the bead and cove, you will come out way ahead in the time category, because each bevel must be a rolling bevel - that is, the angle of the bevel changes as you travel along the length of the strip (sometimes dramatically, depending on the strip. Thus the bevels must be cut by hand (a small block plane works well).

Having said that, the whole stripping process is enjoyable, and I may not have access to the shop I used this past year, so I am seriously considering the bevel method for my next boat - the process is every bit as enjoyable as the result, so I do not mind the extra time.

> I'm thinking about cutting my own strips and wonder if I really need to
> mill the cove and bead. It sounds like beveling the edges would be easier.
> Could one use a joiner to bevel the edge? It sure would save some money.
> Any advice would be helpful.