: Hello, I'm considering bulding a kayak with my sons. I have read through many
: posts and think I'd like to try a s&g 17' or 18' version. I'd like to do
: this whole project for as lettle as possible (read $200). Any ideas on
: where I can get decent plans and material?

: Thanks, Larry

Get a copy of George Putz's book on canvas covered boats and read the posts that Mike Hanks has submitted on using building a plywood boat from those plans. His cost was $160. You say "sons" so I assume you have more than one. Putz's plans for a single and a double are in the book.

After building the forms you can use them over again and build a second boat, for a bit less money, and in less time. Maybe build one a year, or as your budget allows, and eventually have a boat for each son.

Here is my reasoning: Putz's design uses fewer forms which can be cut easily. This is one of the few steps that need power tools. The forms hold a few long, thin strips of wood in place. The plywood is screwed and glued to these thin pieces of wood. Lots of small screws which kids can put in easily with a simple screwdriver. You can predrill the holes and let them go to it.

You only need to waterproof the seams, so your cost for fiberglass materials is less.

Just a thought.

PGJ