While I have always wanted to build an aluminum non-folder, the cost of the aluminum tubing has always put me off. I'm always on the lookout for "scrap" tubing that will work, but it is not easy to find (at least not as easy to find as "scrap" wood suitable for a kayak frame).

Wood works very well, and is generally much less expensive than aluminum. You don't have to use cedar, although it will probably make the lightest frame. Pine, doug fir, spruce, redwood (and other species) work just fine. Depending on where you are located, those will vary considerably in cost and availability, so go with whatever is easiest to acquire.

: I am contemplating building a Sea Tour 17 and would appreciate advice as to
: alternatives, if any, to building the frame from aluinium or western red
: cedar.