Neither method, strip or S&G, is better than the other. Each method can produce a beautiful, very servicable boat. You can also combine the methods for an S&G hull with a strip deck. Each method has strong points and weak points. The strip method CAN, but not necessarily, provide for more room of artistic expression and as a result be "prettier". The biggest difference between the two methods is that you can generally figure 300 hours doing a strip boat and 80 hours doing an S&G. Have fun.