: I really don't have any tools, other than the stuff my father has. More than
: anything, i want a nice hobby. And i think it would be awesome to have
: built a boat with my own hands and float around in it.

: I do have money and could buy a nice boat, but I just can't see spending it
: on a boat if it turns out to be a failure. So if i purchase a kit, is it
: pretty easy for someone like me? I am not very artistic or skillful, but
: would like to learn.

: Where are those kits you mentioned that can be had for 600 dollars or so. So
: if i have few real tools, could i manage?

: On the other hand i'd like to get some tools, and I think the hobby would
: last a lot longer if i didn't buy a kit. Is there something I can buy that
: tells me step by step how to do this like what tools to buy and everything
: for a total novice?

I built a Pygmy Boats kayak from a kit. Take a look at www.pygmyboats.com. I believe most of their kits fall between $600 and $700 dollars. Also, if you haven't, take a quick look at www.clc.com. Both companies have good reputations and they both offer a fairly wide range of styles. Personally, I found the Pygmy kit to be of very high quality and the people at the company were extremely helpful. Also, the folks here at the forum are very willing to answer any questions you might have.

For a first time builder,if you don't have a lot of woodworking experience, a kit is a very good way to get familiar with the building process. Then, if you are bitten by the "bug", you can move on to more challenging techniques.

Hope this helps,

Taylor