i did mine in a few hours 6 from a white pine 2x4.

i thought sine its only $2.5 it was safe and cheap practice. i di buy a band saw which madfe it much easier. but otherwise went with the wing it approach. I have no ide if it works well, but it looks like all the pictures i have ever seen, and compared to building the kayak it was instant gratification.

i sugest you just ignore the parts of the instructions that make you unhappy, and go for it. if its not square it probably wont matter by the time you get to planing anyway. i did all mine with just a block plane, a three set of sharp chisles and sandpaper, and it really does look great. BTW i stabbed myself pretty god with the chisle so be carefulle and take your time. and when you done make another.

use cheap wood first and then go for the cedar.

it will turn out OK reguardless of which details you choose to ignore.