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I think the intention of Nick's book was to provide enough information to allow people to build from the book without the need for additional plans. I suspect that the result is that the Guillemot may be the most widely built cedar strip kayak. In this case the purchase of the book seems to be the license to build the included designs. Thr Kayak Shop is similar in this respect, encouraging builders to build directly from the book, although I think both books suggest that full-sized plans can ease the construction process.
Study plans are usually less than complete plans that show the boat's shape but lack complete construction details. Often they do not include full dimensions. They are not intended to be built from and as such the designers intentions should be respected. They exist so that prospective builders may "study" them before committing to a full set of plans.
On the other side of the coin, if you choose to build from study plans you built a less-than-faithful reproduction of the design, having paid a less-than-full price for the design.
Yet another facet of this arguement is the unauthorised reuse of plans. Generally the purchase of plans entitles the builder to construct one boat. The sale of plans is the designer's reward for the work invested in the design. People or groups who build unauthorized multiples of boats from a single set of plans are, in my eyes, scum, as they bite the very hand that provided the inspiration for their boat building.
Support your local kayak designer. Buy full plans.
This is an archived message from The Kayak Building Bulletin Board.
Guillemot Kayak - High
Performance Wooden Sea Kayak Designs
