Brian,

Excellent point that you bring up. Let me begin by saying that I too put groceries on the table by my personal labor and know exactly what you are addressing.

I also know from reading messages in this forum, and helping friends build their boats, many builders face various challenges in constructing strip kayaks. I enjoyed building and paddling the CA Storm. My situation is that I have limited storage and my choice was to either toss the forms or pass them on to someone who could put them to good use. I am by the way, keeping the strong back for my next boat.

If you look at the total cost of building a boat, the royalty due the designer is a small part. The difference in having a fun, responsive boat that performs well and one that is on a par with a plastic boat from KMart, is totally attributable to people like Vaclav, Nick, Brian and the many others who provide many of the designs we build. If you then factor in the personal attention and one-on-one technical support provided by these individuals the royalties charged are a true bargain. The information included in Vaclav's instructions and his support is tremendous and worth as much as the plans.

The individual who is getting the forms understands that all he is getting is pre-cut plywood and that they are responsible for compensating Mr. Stejskal for use of the design. I just hope that they enjoy the building and paddling a beautiful boat as much as I do.

I hope this clears up any misconceptions and I wish everyone a great year of paddling,
Bill