: Robert,

: Thanks for your advice. I'll read the manual (and everyone's advice) several
: times before I start any work, and you can be sure I'll ask lots of
: questions since this is my first time. I like what you said about a good
: 'yak not being complete unless it's painted or stained. I was thinking
: about leaving this step out since it's my first time but have decided I
: need to do it right even if it takes a little longer/more learning. I
: particularly like the contrasting darker outer deck panels of the lower
: kayak in this picture (taken by you?). I also like that design on the
: hatch cover. Is that a decal or an inlay? If it's not too dificult I might
: like to try somehting like that on my boat. Also, the grain pattern on the
: lighter areas of the deck (of the lower kayak) seems more pronounced. Do
: you think it has been stained as well? It looks beautiful.

: Thanks for your input,
: Ken

That pattern on the hatch is kind of like an inlay. there is a guy here in Edmonton who uses a laser to cut out patterns that are made out of wood and paper thin. The colored edging on the yaks in the pic are dyed, not stained. Regular wood stain cannot be used as the oil in the stain prevents epoxy from bonding. Wod dye ,on the other hand, can be used effectively. THe deck ont eh kayak in question has not been treated with any other color. The differences you see are differences in wood grain/color. Incidently, the yak with the pattern on the hatch is a Lightning 14, my next project. I want to build a yak so my 9 yr old daughter can start paddling along with me. She is big enough and quite strong. The Lightning 14 fits the bill perfectly. If you have any other questions just ask.

Robert N Pruden