I am considering building a strip-built version of Ken Basset's "Liz".

I recently built a S&G Night Heron, and really enjoyed building it. I now want to build something out of strips.

Has anyone here built the Liz? I know that Newfound Woodworks sells a kit for it. I'm not sure if I would have to build it from a kit or if I could purchase the tools and lumber to make my own strips. I've yet to find good wood in this area (Palm Beach County, Florida).

Is the Liz a suitable project for a first-time strip builder?