You're right, it's easy for a beginner to be intimidated by everything you see posted here. From some of the boat pictures to the discussions on the epoxy/wood bond, you'd think you would have to be part European cabinet carver and part engineer. Don't worry about it, just jump in and do the best you can. My wife and I are building a couple of Pygmy Ospreys and they are not perfect, but we've had a great time building them, warts and all. Besides, the project you've described sounds more difficult to me than building the kit. So be encouraged and build the boat.