> . . . in recent weeks have become
> increasingly enamored with the idea of trying to fashion a Greenland style
> "skin"-on-frame boat. . . . for a
> semi-amateur (I've only built one stitch-n-glue thus far), would it be a
> mistake to try and do anything other than follow pretty precisely someone
> elses plans?

Yes, I think it would be a mistake to do your first attempt without good directions. However, you give a bibliography that shuld include plenty of good directions. If you are constructing something in the same stayle as one of these texts dictates, but merely changing a few dimensions, then as long as you can calculate the required changes the instructions should be sufficient.

> Would some sort of boat design software be of any use it
> trying to replicate the appearance of the Cape Cod boat that I am
> particularly fond of, while also giving me some indication of its handling
> characteristics and whether it would really paddle well with me in it?

Whoa! Don't go too fast here. The boat design programs may give you the dimensions of the hull, but they won't tell you how to assemble the pieces so that it won't fall apart. If you are going to build another stitch and glue design you probably can use the same techniques as you used for your first boat, but merely use panels that are cut to different shapes. There is software that will design these panels for you. If you want to switch to skin on frame, though, you need some different skills and techniques, and materials.

Wait until you get your books, and you have carefully gone over them. They may suggest ideas to you that you will want to incorporate in the construction of your next kayak. They may even have plans and drawings for your use. Don't forget George Putz's book. It is a good read.

Good luck with your project.

Paul G. Jacobson