: i want to build a kayak frame out of bamboo. does anyone have any advice or
: plans? thanks
Mikel- I've been exploring the possibility of using bamboo for stripping for some time. The same qualities (strength, flexibility, beauty) would make it suitable for framing as well. The use of large culms (canes) is almost a necessity since making it into strips involves taking off the curves with a planer. You may be considering using the canes whole. In that case there are a lot more varieties available. Phyllostachys rubromarginata has culms with the longest distance between nodes (the "knots" in the culms), Guadua angustifolia has interlocking fibers that resist splitting. Be aware that the extremely hard silicaceous outer surface of a bamboo pole is naturally resistant to insect and fungal attack, but also resists preservatives. Check out the American Bamboo Society website for sources. Their bulletin board might be the best source for questions. Let us know how it goes...
Brian