Marc-

3/4" strips are just a compromise between being narrow enough to handle typical tight curves, like at the turn of the bilge and wide enough so that stripping doesn't take forever. A lot of boats could be stripped with 1" or even wider strips. Parts of almost every boat could be done with wider strips too. Milling 3/4" strips is also achievable from commercially available lumber.

Mike Scarborough
Friendship Kayak