: What are good dimensions to use for the cross-section on steam bent coaming
: for west greenland style kayaks. I plan to try red oak for starters since
: it is what I have on hand. Planning to cut strips 1/8" thick and then
: laminating about 5 layers which I figure will build to about 3/4"
: with epoxy. What works well for the coaming height 1", 1.25",
: 1.5" or something else?. I'm a big buy, so adding a little extra
: strength here would not be a bad idea...

Hi Brent,
If it's for a SoF, a reasonable coaming would be 1.25 to 1.5 inch high and 3/8" thick. A laminated rim between 1/2" and 3/4" wide should do depending on the type of skirt you use. It doesn't need to support much weight as such, the main frame is for that.

For hardshells, the coaming height should let you get your gloved fingers under the rim and out easily. The coaming could have similar dimensions as for SoF.

Hope this helps,
Mike Savage
South West Cork