: Hi,

: Building my first kayak, a Night Heron Hybrid and i'm about ready
: to get wood for the deck. In the image below i've illustrated my
: intended deck design (although i've decided to take out some of
: the detail such as most of the pinstriping). While I labeled
: everything with the types of wood i intend to use, as though I
: knew what I was talking about; the truth is, outside of oak and
: pine from lowes i'm pretty clueless as to the best woods to use.
: I'm looking for a darker, redish tone wood for what i've labeled
: 'red cedar'. And something light for what's labeled 'white
: cedar' and something inbetween for the 'yellow cedar', but I
: think i'd like it to be closer to the 'red cedar' in darkness
: than the 'white'. The hull is made of okuome with a cherry stem.
: I'm not totally sold on the color choices i've made so i'm open
: to any and all suggestions you may have. Looking forward to your
: responses!

: (PS: What's a good wood for the 'white'?)

: Thanks!
: Damian

Hi Damian,

It looks as though you have a fine project in mind.

Re. the contrasting woods for your design, I suggest that before you include heavier woods, have a careful look at the western red cedar available in your local lumber stores. The color varies enormously from almost as light as spruce and white cedar to chocolate brown. If you are lucky, you may be able to do your entire design in various colors of western red cedar found in different boards. Using red cedar only will keep your boat nice and light.

Good luck,

Best regards,

Allan Edie