: hi all, i've been away kayaking for a while.
: i'm planning a bit ahead and am wondering if useing red cedar, exclusively,
: for the frame of a sof is do-able. or is it too weak? robert morris's new
: (great) book suggests yellow cedar or spruce. i have lots of red cedar in
: my stash and thought i might use it if it's strong enough. i would still
: use hardwood for the deck beams for and aft of the cockpit, and the
: cockpit itself.
: regards;
: daren......

Western Red cedar should work just fine. For the ribs, soak it thoroughly (1 to 2 weeks) as it has been kiln dried.

The Yellow Cedar and spruce are easier to steam bend.

Another wood you may want to look into is Port Oford Cedar. I've had excellant luck with it.

Roger