I agree with Ian. If you are having trouble, don't complicate your task by trying to introduce a different strongback system.

If you need evidence that people have successfully built the North Star, take a look at the just arrived copy of Sea Kayaker. There is a good looking North Star there right above Kent's Guillemot.

Rob's design is a nice one even if it does require some work on the builder's part to make it. Consider the work part of the fun of a creative process.

> I think that you should forget everything except the plans sent to you by
> Rob Mack. As many people have built the boat with little problem, I would
> think that problem is in your understanding of the plans.

> Stop everything you are doing, start all over at step one and use Rob's
> way on everything. Combining different approaches and building techniques
> is probably not a good way to build your first kayak.

> Rob Mack would have trouble advising you on problems if you are using
> Nick's method to build. In fact I would say that it might be impossible
> for him to do this.

> I have seen many pictures of the North Star all build Rob's way and they
> don't seem to have the problems that you are experiencing. Check your own
> practices before trying to modify the established building technique.

> Hope this will help, Ian