: I think a stripped cockpit recess would like very nice if the rest
: of the deck is also strip.

: Some tips:
: 1) Run a thin strip of contrasting color around the perimeter of
: cockpit cutout. This visually makes bad joints between strips
: almost disappear.
: 2) Start and both the bow and stern ends of the cockpit, so glue
: can dry while another area is being worked. Meet near the
: paddler's hips, where the recess strips are very short.
: 3) Every 5th strip or so, run a strip completely across the hole,
: to keep everything on the same plane.
: 4) I used to use masking tape to temporarily hold strips in place,
: but now I just hold each strip in place for 10 seconds or so and
: they usually stay in place.

: A few contruction photos on this page:
: http://www.outdoorplace.org/paddling/SpringRun/sr2.htm

: John

Thanks John,

You won't believe how similar the design of my deck is. What types of wood did you use? I've ordered all western red cedar and asked for light, medium, and dark strips. I'm having second thoughts on whether the light strips will contrast enough though.