You've seen the variations at the Redfish Gallery so you know how creative this thing can get. I tend to like deck patterns that follow the natural curves rather than cutting across, but some of those are cool too. Really just personal taste.

You'll probably lose contrast over time between two woods so don't be afraid to go bolder. The cedar and basswood on mine has already lost some contrast in one year and in addition, the amber color of some varnish tends to blend colors.
View the boat from a stepladder as you play with ideas. I didn't and my centerline isn't as strong as I'd like.
Also, adding dashed lines is not that difficult, just time consuming.
Good luck with the Spring Run.
Ian

: First kayak build!
: Well, finally getting ready to start first strips on my Spring Run
: kit this weekend, if not next week. Lots of things keep popping
: up to delay my project.
: Anyway, enough complaining!
: The kit came with a selection of mostly full length red cedar and a
: smaller bunch full length white cedar. There are also some
: shorter strips ... both light and dark.
: I know color/wood selection is up to the builder. I don't plan on
: any fancy, artistic patterns here ... something basic and
: attractive. I'll have to figure out a plan so it doesn't come
: out looking haphazard.

: So, looking for general advise on strip planning. Any
: "dos" and "do-nots" I should be aware of?

: I plan on stapling the hull and doing staple-less on the deck. I am
: thinking of picking out 1-2 dark strips, for each side, for the
: sheerline and working from there. I'll use most of the white
: cedar on the hull bottom I think.

: Anyway, would love to hear feedback, and stories.
: Thx,
: Rob