I'm a first time builder just getting to the fiberglassing stage. I went to the Wooden Boat School last year and the instruction was invaluable. Still (also a beginning woodworker) I've made a few mistakes. The WBS gives you the opportunity to get hands on with the materials and methods, meet some great people, see some great country and ask questions of (literally) the guy who wrote the book.

I don't know enough about kayaking to recommend a design, but there are some sites that can help you narrow it down, like Guillemot Kayak. I chose to build a Great Auk because it's a nice design for a novice woodworker and a novice paddler as well.

A canoe is next for me.

RP