Epoxy is the most expensive single item. Price the amount of epoxy you would use in the brand you would use and compare that to the price of plans plus epoxy to a kit. Also consider the fact that if you buy plans you can buy materials as needed, rather than having all of the costs up front. Why spend a big hunk of money on epoxy and glass when all you need to get started is lumber and PVA glue? Also, I would never buy wood that I couldn't personally inspect and/or choose myself.

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