: After a few months of dreaming about building a kayak and learning how to
: paddle I have finally ordered plans for a Guillemot L. My first question
: is what would be the BEST material to use for forms. I may build a second
: or third boat and would like the forms to hold up. Should I use 1/2 or 3/4
: thick materal. Should I use plywood, baltic birch plywood, MDF or particle
: board.
: Thank You,
: Mike Boren

Hi Mike.

I'm actually in the process of building a Guillemot 'L' right now. It is my first kayak and things are going quite well. I'm using 3/4 inch plywood with a basic 2x4 strongback and have had no problems with it. I've benefitted from the larger staple target. You just need to be aware that all of Nick's measurements both in his book and on the plans assume a 1/2" thick form. This comes in to play primarily in dealing with the bevel on the end forms. You have to make some adjustments, but it is no big deal if you're just aware of it.

Some pictures of the forms are up at the below link. The photos for February 14 (head to the bottom of the page, on the right ... ) show the 3/4" plywood forms on the strongback if you're interested. These were the first pictures I took with the camera, and they're a little dark. Sorry 'bout that.

Best wishes on the boat. Maybe we can trade notes once you get going.

Rick Brannan