There is no reason to beleive that laminating 1/8 strips would not work. The problem would be that you would need 20 ish molds and hope they are perfect for the job. Steam bending is a very proven technique. The problem is you have to go through all the learning process for possibly one boat. I've noticed some Yost'ies go with laminated coamings most likely to avoid leaning how to steam for one friggin coaming. If you are building a whole boat, just go with it and expect lots of broken ribs before you finnish the boat. Although I have not read starr's book, I beleive he is the only book recomending molds. Most builders free hand it.
Scott
qajaqusa.org is full of usefull information.