: hi Rehd;
: i'm building from robert morris's book so glue is not a concern. is it your
: opinion that there is nothing to be gained from soaking?
: regards;
: daren....

I found that wetting the strips down with a plant mister before steaming gave me a few more seconds for bending when the strips came out. This was simply because the extra water kept them from cooling as quickly. Some claim that you can over steam/wet the strips. All of this will vary, however, depending on the particular wood you're using. Best bet is to try some scraps and do what ever works the best at the time.

Are you using AYC for the whole boat? That should make a very nice frame.

Bill