: This is an interesting thread. Mtkayak that is one lovely boat!

: I assume all these strippers will be glassed for cross-grain
: strength. I am interested in building a glass-free stripper. Has
: anyone tried this, perhaps using steamed or laminated frames for
: the cross-grain strength? I have supplies of very flexible wood
: strips that I think could be inserted inside the boat after the
: strip build is completed. That would give it a more traditional
: look. I wondered if there are any potential snags or lessons
: already learned.

Hi,
There is a method similar to what you describe, edge-nailed planking. The planks were at least square in cross section, say 3/4 X 3/4". Originally, these square planks were edge-nailed and luted, (thickened paint used as a 'glue') with the nails going through at least three planks every four inches or so. Later when glues bacame more reliable for marine use, the luting was replaced with glue and the edge-nailing went through two planks.
The frames that I saw were a mix of sawn and bent, spaced a bit closer than traditional boats.

They made a nice water-tight hull but was slightly heavier than traditional builds given all the extra nails. They were also complicated to repair any hull damage. Pilot holes would be needed for every nail.
For a kayak, the nails would have to be very thin.

There is much less work in making a kayak with the usual strip and glass.

Mike Savage
South West Cork