Instead of cluttering this up with thanks, thanks, thanks ... I just give one big THANKS to all of you ... especially since this is a diversion from the "real" purpose of this group ... kayaks. Sorry about that, but I figured that if anyone would know how to strip this, you people would. Onto the comments:

- I talked to Ross about his program. Ross was actually quite surprised that his program didn't blow up with this odd looking craft. It actually takes a bit of coxing to get it to make this shape. The real cool thing about this program (besides being free) is that you can print scaled down templates. I've already made cardboard strongback/template setups to get a better idea of the looks. I was going to make a model, but I'm getting pretty comfortable with the shape.

- Thanks for the stripping approach comments. I was thinking more about the "if" than the "how". Although a lot of work, I like the idea of every strip being tapered. As it was stated, a lot of work, but visually very cool. The comment seems applicable to both the bow and the stern.

- The stern of this craft was a compromise to begin with. Sorry to disappoint you "extreme guys", but I think the best solution is to stretch it out a couple of feet and make it look the way I really wanted it to look and then hack off the end and make it into a removable cone. This is a variation of another comment of making a separate streamlined cone. Actually doing it like this will make an interesting experiment ... does the cone really help? It's also a good suggestion to check out how things shape up at the ends (still) and see if I need additional forms ... or another suggestion is to have a horizontal or even a solid stem piece. I'll have a better idea once I get the forms up and lay some test strips. All real good comments!!!

- And yes, after asking these questions, it is simply common courtesy to let you know how it turns out. I know a lot of you have these exotic patterns in your mind, but if I play with patterns it'll be very simple. Certainly not much more than using a couple different woods.

Just for reference for those curious folks. I'm building a solid wing iceboat. For those of you interested in learning more, here is a discussion group. In there is the latest screen capture and *.yak file from Kayakfoundry. This is also the place where I'll post pictures of my progress. You don't need to periodically check this group, I'll let you know when there is progress that may be of interest to you ... or if I get into trouble! :-)
http://groups.msn.com/LandsailerandIceboatdesignandconstruction

Thanks again for your comments! I really appreciate it.
Dave