: In the end I decided to go with a simpler overall pattern. From a
: distance the larger sections compliment and follow the lines of
: the boat. As you get closer you see the grain of the mahogany
: and curly maple, separated by the thin lines of walnut and
: cherry. The accent strips define the areas, not compete with
: them.

Good advice. I think designs that follow the boat's lines make the boat look better, whereas overly complicated patterns can be distracting and take away from the overall beauty of the boat--even as it may show off your woodworking skill. Jay has a good point about the role of improvisation when you're working. Sometimes it'll just come to you, and you can let the paper patterns blow away.

No way you won't have fun!

--Scott