: Have not tried this but I am about too. I am going to use a bronze
: rub strip or in canoe terms a stem band. I see no reason that
: wouldn't work and look better on a canoe.

Like the stem band on this? http://www.capefalconkayak.com/adirondackguideboat.html

I've always thought that would look nice. How do you handle countersinking the holes? Can you use a regular countersink bit in the brass?

I'd love to hear how the stapling comes out, I'm tying in ribs right now, hopefully I'll be getting to skinning in a week or two.

I'm also thinking about spacing out the ribs a little farther on the bow and stern maybe 1/3 of the boat. I'm using 3/4" x 3/4" SPF stringers and 1/4" x 3/4" white oak ribs, I've been spacing the ribs on 6" centers, I'm thinking about going to 8" centers for the outer part of the boat to maybe shed a little weight and a little labor. I'm thinking 8" centers between the thwarts and stems, 6" centers between the thwarts. Any thoughts? Just seems like I don't need as much rib where the stringers are closer together. I might even be able to go more than 8", but I'd rather play it safe.