: I have a group of Varsity Scouts (14-15 years old). We are thinking of making
: our own kayaks to take on a 3-day river trip (on a fairly tame river,
: obviously). We need something fairly easy to make, rugged enough to last
: our three days (stopping and camping in the evenings) and last, but not
: least, something that will not cost a fortune. Is this asking for too
: much?

Skin on frame is probably the cheapest way to go , no more than $100.00 for the fabric and all the wood. 8oz nylon is a good skin costs $6.00 yd from George Dyson . They are simple to build either with traditional fasteners such as wooden pegs and lashings or real quick with galvanized nails. Hard chine is easiest and the frames are of three piece construction.