: Ok so it looks like I am getting to the point of putting the two
: keel strips on my guillemot. My questions are many.

: First is it easier to put the two keel strips in place and then
: deal with the two footballs left on either side or go across the
: centerline, cut back, go across the center line from the other
: side, cut back then put the two keel strips in place? Kinda like
: the one ocean meathod? No mitered ends, I don't know just a
: thought

: Second How important is it to use hardwood strips for the two keel
: strips? I don't have any hardwood on hand ripped up for this and
: just want some input on using ceder, mainly because I got lots.

: Third since I have striped all the way up the sides of the boat I
: have come to the flatter bottom and would like to see some of
: your guys accent designs for this section of the hull. I was
: thinking of keeping it pretty basic with a single pine stip at
: some point around the diagonal mark on the forms, since I am
: using pine accents for the deck but I just don't know. At the
: very least this would be a good oppotunity to show off some of
: the beautiful stuff that I know you guys have all done.

: Thanks to everyone on this board and the input it gives is amazing,
: especially thanks to Nick for putting it together.

: Dave.

Cedar will work, and be very easy to fabricate. But, it will not be as durable as hardwood. The stems can take a huge amount of abuse on kayaks, and I believe If you are going to put that much time and money into making one, you should do it right. I have been known to do things cheap, quick, and easy, but usually on a skin on frame where I don't have much time or money invested in the first place.