I used two rows of cheaters on the bow of the Guillemot I am building. I didn't use any cheaters on the stern and the strips met the bottom at the same time. I didn't like using the cheaters and I don't think I would use them again. I spent a lot of time friggin around with shaping and getting them to fit properly. I found stripping the stern to be easier without the cheaters. We have not used any on the Guillemot Double we are building and there is no problem making them twist. You did not mention what kind of wood you are using. That could make a big difference as well. I used mostly Northern White Cedar and it bends very well.