: I recommend that you follow my instructions to the tee.

: A stripping technique that might work on a simple canoe shape will
: NOT work on this hull.

: Apply at least two strips on each side of the keel line.

: I use an external strongback carried past the boat stems so the
: stem forms can be supported as far out
: as possible. I NEVER apply more than three strips to one side
: before switching to the other side because
: strips can still pull the stems out of alignment with an external
: strongback. It just depends on the moisture
: content of the wood, the air, and the temperature swings, that
: happen every day.

: There are certainly builders who have stable moisture and
: temperature conditions in their shop that may not notice
: any problems, but this is not universal.

: Again, I suggest you follow my instructions. I've ironed out the
: problems over dozens of boats.
: You've paid me for plans with detailed instructions to make your
: life easy.

: This is your first kayak! If you want to make your life miserable,
: that's your choice!

: I hope you have fun.

: All the best,
: Rob

I agree with Rob. I also encourage you to do the same especially on your first build.
I have been building the tail of a baidarka and after three tries doing it "my way" I trashed them all . When I did it the "Rob way" and it came out just fine.
I expect striping the hull the way the instructions indicate will produce the best results.
My 2 cents
Clayton Plunkett