: To clarify, I am thinking strip construction (3/16 or 1/4 thick). I know that
: Struer uses 4 layers of ~1/16" veneer with no glass. Is it this
: veneer layup that gives it such strength or will a strip boat be of
: similar strength once the deck is attached. The reason I am asking is
: because I want to make a K1, but I'd rather do it as cheap as possible and
: light as possible. I don't need the abrasion/impact resistance, but I do
: need it not to flex, bow, or crack when sitting in it.

: thanks

Eric,

I wouldn't build a typical strip boat without glass because I would expect problems with stiffness and strength in the cross-grain direction. The Struer boats are compound curve plywood, which addresses the cross-grain issue. But for a K1, you could consider several variations of typical strip lay-ups. Use very light glass. Use glass only in the center third of the boat. Spend some cash and apply very light unidirectional fibers oriented across the strips (look for Uni-web at http://www.acp-composites.com/acp-ud.htm). Or use some combination of those ideas.

Sam