Finding a place to work is the biggest challenge for many builders. A garage, large shed, or barn is ideal. The basement will do if there s a door or window that s big enough to remove the finished boat. Most epoxies don t have much odor, but the sanding dust and smell of varnish might annoy your housemates. I know of many boats built in spare bedrooms with tarps on the floor, and a few builders who work outdoors and carry their craft indoors for the night.
Kits vary widely in type, content, quality, and ease of construction.
The moderately experienced woodworker might try a strip-built kit. Before selecting a kit, talk to the manufacturer about what s included. Strip kits will typically contain cedar strips, but other strips, such as Honduran mahogany, may be added for accent stripes. Ask for a sample piece of strip. With canoes, ask about cane seats, bow strips, and optional wood for accents.