I would recomend just using 1/8" not the 1/4". That is what I did. I also sheathed the entire kayak inside and out with 3.25 oz glass, doubling or tripling the cloth in critical areas. I have a few of reasons for this. 1/8" luan is easier to bend to shape than 1/4", especially on the bottom panels where most of the curvature is. Also 1/8" is lighter. Another thing is that you will want enough epoxy on the inside to thoroughly seal the wood, putting glass on is a good way to make sure you have enough epoxy to prevent the dreaded black ick, it also gives better strength an flexibility than 1/4" luan.

: Hi Paul,
: thanks for the tips - here are my thoughts: the panels will be no problem, I
: need one sheet for the bottom and one sheet for the sides and a single
: sheet for the deck, it all fits nicely. I will also buy one sheet 1/8 and
: 1/4 for all other pieces I need. The price difference between 1/8 and 1/4
: does not concern me - it is the price difference between lauan and okomee
: that makes me go this way. I am only planning to glass the cockpit area on
: the inside - since the reinforcement strips go beyond the bulkheads both
: front and aft I should not have to tuck any glass. I want to use 1/8 on
: the sides and deck to save weight - the whole thing out of 1/4 seems a bit
: too heavy. I think I will buy a 2 gallon kit of epoxy - that should be
: more then enough for the extra glassing I will have to do.
: I wellcome any additional information / thoughs I can get.
: Thanks