I agree with George. Excellent post, but, with reservations:

If you give all the secrets of woodworking away, you'll lose kayakers and they'll all be in doing the honer-do's. Refinishing cabinets and furniture. :)

The only thing I could stress Big Time is: Get your hands ON the wood, or glass as ofter as you can, and really get the feel of it. You will learn, with time, just how far is enough and also, you will be able to feel the bad spots long before you can see them. Trust me !! It's half the job, but, half the fun as well. Excellent job!!

Rehd