This Putz method of skin on frame building is a good way to go and the one fellow I met who built a kayak from Putz's book was very happy his kayak.

The Inuit over centuries devised a more simple way to build kayaks. The differences are that no molds are required and the hull shape is determined by either bent ribs or 3 piece ribs. Fastening is a combination of mortise and tenons, dowels and lashing. No metal fasteners are used. The skin is put on in one piece rather than two separate pieces.

A Greenland Inuit type boat would have more interior room than a Putz type ( if the depth is the same), also the Inuit type would weigh less. Depending on the wood and skin used a Greenland style can weigh from 30-45 lbs finished. The synthetic skins such as nylon or polyester weigh half or less what a canvas skin weighs.

Harvey Golden has built many Inuit Replicas and he has a website at http://home.pacifier.com/~qayaq/

: Actually this is a good idea. I used a similar technique with a long screw
: and wire for the kealson on the end forms. I'll probably use it again in
: some of the tight spots. Hadn't thought about hot glue. I hate the damn
: stuff, but it might be a good option here too.

: Bill