I am ashamed at my lack of faith in the Pygmy quality. I continue to be amazed at how perfectly the panels come together. If I had just continued on to panel 2 prior to worrying about the alignment of the keel at the bow and stern, it would have been obvious that no removal of any wood was needed. The stitching is moving along very nicely and everything is magically coming together. It is so exciting to see the hull taking form. I’ll know better the next time! Thanks again for all the helpful comments. Wayne