I'm considering building a Guillemot SK and would like to ask several questions to satisfy my own curiosity.

First, I am fortunate (I think?) to have a lumber supplier that deals only with West. Red Cedar located about 4 miles from where I live. Not a big deal in some parts of the country, but not so common here in Alabama. Anyway, his price for W.R.C. is about $1.90 per linear foot for 1"x6" and $2.something? for 1x8" clear/no nots. (16' to 18' lengths were not a problem and I wouldn't have to worry with shipping etc. I have the equipment to rip and mill the stock.) Thats still right at $4 + per board foot which is close to Mahogany :^) Is this price good/reasonable/ridiculous for WRC? I have no idea because I don't know how much wood goes into the average Guillemot Kayak (17'). What are some REAL figures for the cloth and Epoxy needed and who are some of the most reasonable suppliers.

My next issue is: Has anyone used cypress with good results? or is it too heavy? I may be able to get this for very reasonable. Can it be milled thinner than 1/4" to lighten the boat? I know it shares similar properties with spruces/cedars but don't know how it would work.

Last: As I said, I was considering the Guillemot. Can it be built from the plans included in Nick's "Strip-Building Kayaks" book or should I purchase the full size plans. I know for sure that I'll be getting the book, just didn't want to purchase more than I needed. Will they just need to be lofted?

Obviously, any advice is much-needed. And thanks for the great Forum and for letting me ramble on with novice questions.