: I would make a set of cardboard forms. Run temporary stringers over the forms
: and make the ribs by wrapping around the stringers, then lay the final
: stringers over top of the ribs. You can then cut the internal stringers to
: get them out. This method would let you place as many ribs as you choose,
: where ever you choose.

I considered this, but it would require recutting my forms or notching at least and I decided against it. If I were starting from the very beginning, I think it could be a viable option.

: You could start with the outer stringers and make the ribs on the inside, but
: this would be more awkward.

Possibly, but this is Monfort's technique. Of course, he doesn't go all the way around the boat.

: Platt sometimes increases the spacing of the ribs towards the ends. More ribs
: in the middle, fewer towards the ends. Since the ends don't support as
: much weight they don't need as many ribs.

I may consider this. The Return's forms are about 12" apart. Splitting these, which I was planning on anyway, will give your 6" spacing. I was also planning on skipping the splitting on the very ends. I have a pretty stout stem there anyway.

: I have thought of making a kayak this way since I first saw geodesic boats
: over 10 years ago. I still think you could make a really slick kayak this
: way. BTW don't think about it too much. Just build it. You will have a
: finished boat in the time you would have been thinking and then you can
: actually look at a finished example to determine what to do different next
: time.

Yep. Pretty much my conclusion. I am intrigued, but lack the necessary bending skill as well as wood. I did get a look at some ash, but it seemed very heavy and expensive to me. For now, I think I'll stick to the first plan, i.e. built much like a stripper - build the hull then build the deck and join the two.

Good ideas posted here so far, though :-)

Bill