If you are not in a hurry and are just as interested in the building and learning as you are in the finished product, then build from plans. That's what I did with my first boat - a stitch and glue canoe. Almost a year and a half after ordering the plans, it's still in progress. If you take your time, read a lot, get advice when you need it, and are willing to make mistakes and fix them, you can do it.

If you want a boat to paddle relatively soon and you anticipate making more than one boat, start with a kit. You'll learn almost as much and avoid a lot of headaches and worry. Then you'll have the confidence you need to try building from plans.

As for price, the kits sound really expensive, but I know I could have bought a good kit for what I've spent on building this canoe. The little things add up, as do the tools. Of course, you'll have to buy a lot of extras even with a kit.

Patsy

: I really don't have any tools, other than the stuff my father has. More than
: anything, i want a nice hobby. And i think it would be awesome to have
: built a boat with my own hands and float around in it.

: I do have money and could buy a nice boat, but I just can't see spending it
: on a boat if it turns out to be a failure. So if i purchase a kit, is it
: pretty easy for someone like me? I am not very artistic or skillful, but
: would like to learn.

: Where are those kits you mentioned that can be had for 600 dollars or so. So
: if i have few real tools, could i manage?

: On the other hand i'd like to get some tools, and I think the hobby would
: last a lot longer if i didn't buy a kit. Is there something I can buy that
: tells me step by step how to do this like what tools to buy and everything
: for a total novice?