> These prices are for a S&G Chesapeake 16LT:

> Okume Stock - 2 sheets - $70 Raka epoxy - 1.5 gal - $65 Fibreglass - Tape
> & sheet- $65 Plans - 1 set - $48 Miscelaneous items - $50

> TOTAL $298

> Stripper canoe

> Cedar for strips - $50 Epoxy (2 gals) - $110 Fibreglas - $75 Ash for trim
> - $20 Miscelaneous items- $75 Gil Gilpatricks book $15 (with plans) total
> - $345

Two other possiblilities:

David Hazen's book on stripbuilt canoes includes full size plans for two different kayak models. The cost would be about the same as you calculate for a strip built canoe, or maybe $50 more.

George Putz's book on canvas covered boats has the plans and instructions for building two boats. The 18 1/2 footer would serve as a double, or as a single for a very large paddler. As has been mentioned here, Putz estimates that this can be built for around $250, and one of the contributors to this board is about to finish his for just about that price, and he has enough left over materials to build the next one for less. Obviously the estimate is accurate.

Both of these books are in the $20 range and available from online book sellers like www.amazon.com

You can start saving money by building your paddles.

If you have a design in mind for a strip-built boat you might be able to find someone who has built such a boat already. If they will loan you, or rent you their frames you can save time and the cost of the materials. You should arrange to test paddle the boat before you build a copy, too.

In the long run you will save the most money by doing careful research -- including test paddling the designs you consider before you build them. I must add that this may be impossible. While you are still building the first boat you start thinking of the improvements you will make in the NEXT one you build, and wonder why you didn't build that one instead.

Hope this helps.

Paul G. Jacobson