Kayakcraft: Fine Woodstrip Kayak Construction Paperback – January 1, 1999

This book is a must in any kayak builder's library. Very well written with clear comments on each stage of kayak construction, supplemented with excellent photographs. In addition, one can find in this book a detailed instruction on the stapleless kayak construction method and a miriad of practical tips on, among others, strongback assembly, sanding techniques, decorative methods of stripping and so on. A wealth of author's experiences talk through the pages. There is one feature of this book that makes it different from other books on kayak construction. The method of construction described allows one to build a kayak completely in two parts (hull and deck, inside and outside) and join them as the very last step by a simple glueing method. I built my first kayak using a different method and ended up with a pain in the neck and lower back supplemented by contortionist's skills while trying to finish the work inside the joined deck and hull.While there is no book that tells everything on kayak construction this one comes close as an excellent reference for a novice and experienced builders alike.As a suplementary reading, I would strongly recomment another book by Ted Moores "Canoecraft" with its excellent coverage of wood stripping and, in particular,fiberglassing techniques.

This book has everything you need to know about building a strip kayak from materials, setting up your shop, recommendations on wood and supplies and even includes the information to draw up the plans yourself for several different kayaks - it's not as hard as it looks. It has answered all my questions so far and has got me hooked - the strips cut for my first kayak and I'm just waiting for the router bit to come so I can cut the bead and cove edges before putting it all together. It also has great step by step instructions for every step of the way - from building the form the boat is built on to joining the cedar strips. I can't wait to get started!

I don't know how anybody could go wrong buying this book ! I purchased Ted's first book Canoecraft way back in 1983 and it's covers are well worn a great book .It was the definative book at its time and I feel that Kayak Craft is the same today . If someone isn't able to build a kayak from this book ,then they aren't trying or shouldn't be trying .I built several canoes with Ted's fist book and never bought a plan ever .If you read thuroughly and pay attention it won't be hard.Don't be afraid of this book . I'm glad I bought it the only way that this book could be better for me is if the very numerous and professional pictures were color . This is a very thorough book with nothing missing .

Okay, I purchased this book through Amazon ten years ago. I purchased it along with the CanoeCraft book, and Nick Schade's classic work.I agree with other comment submissions that state that this is a good reference. I like Nick Schade's approach better, however. Ted's approach is more classical and Nick's more innovative. Also notice that Nick's latest book, Building Strip-Planked Boats (International Marine-RMP), actually moderates back toward a more classic building technique in using beveling of strips instead of cove/bead, and in modifying the epoxy end-pour technique he used to use.It's just that Nick's first work is the best of anything I have read, even if I don't use all of his techniques. He communicates a passion and clearness of presentation lacking in Ted's book. It was harder to follow the pictures, which were also not quite as clear. Nick's book also seemed very thorough, and easier to understand, especially through the lofting section.This is still a classic work, however, and should be part of any determined kayak-builder's library.

This book has lots of info for first time kayak build. It does not show everything or explain all but I used YouTube for much as well. It's worth the price to have on hand for reference.

My Uncle builds canoes through the woodstrip-epoxy boatbuilding system. Ted Moores pioneered this system in 1972. This was more than a coffee table book for his birthday. He proudly keeps it in his workshop as reference.

So much information, a lifetime of knowledge and wisdom. Building is so much more than the finished product, hopefully you gain a little wisdom and a bit of Zen.

Very well done book. I have built two boats so far and the information provided works for the average boat builder.Terry from Texas