Hi,

I wanted to both introduce myself to the group and to ask for your help at the same time. I have been lurking here for a couple of months now. I am going to be building a kayak... well actually 2 but one for starters... I have been unemployed so could not justify the expense but start a new job this week and now I am ready to get going.

I have been leaning towards the Cheseapeke 17 kayak to build as I want a touring kayak and am 5'10" 190.... and the cheseapeke 16 for my girlfriend who is much lighter.... Any other kayaks that I should look into. Also I have found a local Okoume plywod supplier in Chicago (I live in the suburbs), but was wondering about possibly using cheaper plwood for my first Kayak. Would you recommend this or caution against it? Any advice would be appreciated, and especially any first time builder experiences.... I have read several threads that relate, but none that totally answer my questions.

Thank you very much!!!!!

Josh