Thanks for all of the input so far, You have convinced me that okoume is the way to go....I found out that WoodPlanet in Chicago, IL can get okoume for me. They specify the thicknesses in english units though... and carry both 1/4" and 1/8" plywood. which I am assuming is comporable to 3mm and 6mm based on the conversion below.

3.000 millimetre [mm] equivalent to: 0.11811 inch [in]
4.000 millimetre [mm] equivalent to: 0.15748 inch [in]
6.000 millimetre [mm] equivalent to: 0.23622 inch [in]

Can I get away using 3mm plywood when 4mm is called for? Will the strength of the finished product be inferior...will it be as rigid?

2 more questions.
1. Anyone have experience building the Chesapeake 17 from CLC ??? Any other comprable S&G boats I should consider??

2. I have been reading good things about buying epoxy from Raka.... is that the best choice for buying it online? (Price AND Quality). Does anyone know a Midwest supplier where I might be able to buy the epoxy. I live in the Chicago area but am willing to drive a little if the price is right.

Thanks again.... I am going to be ordering plans this week, and most likely getting materials to get started with my Sept 1 paycheck.... I'm in the computer industry so I probably wont be able to resist putting up one of those build journal websites either!!!

Josh

: 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