Nick - Just a note to pass on a tip, maybe you've discovered it....

I'm fairing out my first boat, a Guillemot from your book. Instead of the fairing sander you suggested, I used the flexible steel blade from a Stanley Surform, the 10" - 12" flat blade. It really knocks it down fast. Take off the Surform blade and use it as-is. I clipped a "v" clamp to one end for a handle, and pulled it across the hull just like a fairing sander. It's a little short, but putting the pressure on with the free hand works like a charm... easily bends around the hull, knocking off the corners and showing the low spots. The aggressive rasp effect sort of makes up for the short length.

Once again, your book is a real piece of work. I first made a half dozen paddles, then your book took me from lofting to what's looking like a real boat. It's an enjoyable project.