Page 1 of 3

Why we are lucky

Posted: Thu Nov 17, 2011 12:11 am
by tx river rat
You are a design machine Matt! You are fast becoming (if not already) the No.1 wooden kayak designer worldwide in my book, particularly for recreation/fishing kayaks.

This was posted in another section of this forum and I couldnt agree more.
But I am going to take it one step farther. I have built some boats of my design ,some of some other designers,and I can honestly say Matt has the best plans , simple and easy to read ,best back up if you have a problem.
A lot of little tricks that he incorporates into his designs that dont show but
make the difference between good performance and great performance.
Matt is going to have to try real hard to beat the Northwind :lol: :lol:
Thanks for having this forum Matt and your outstanding designing.
Ron

Re: Why we are lucky

Posted: Thu Nov 17, 2011 3:14 am
by rodot
You are a design machine Matt! You are fast becoming (if not already) the No.1 wooden kayak designer worldwide in my book, particularly for recreation/fishing kayaks.

This was posted in another section of this forum and I couldnt agree more.
But I am going to take it one step farther. I have built some boats of my design ,some of some other designers,and I can honestly say Matt has the best plans , simple and easy to read ,best back up if you have a problem.
A lot of little tricks that he incorporates into his designs that dont show but
make the difference between good performance and great performance.
Matt is going to have to try real hard to beat the Northwind
Thanks for having this forum Matt and your outstanding designing.
Ron


I couldn't agree more.
I have only built two boats, both JEMs, or is it gems, and am absolutely amazed at the accuracy of the plans, the comprehensive instructions and fantastic backup. The other thing that cannot be understated is the encouragement that is given and the way that even the most trivial of questions is answered without making you feel stupid.
Keep it up Matt. Your work is greatly appreciated.

Roger

Re: Why we are lucky

Posted: Thu Nov 17, 2011 8:52 am
by jem
Thanks guys.

Don't under estimate how much you, the builders, are a part of this process. I got started in this as a response to not having a design the way I wanted it. When I asked questions, the reponse I got was one of "I'm the designer and I know what a good design is. You shouldn't question it." Of course not in those exact words but you get the idea.

When I get feedback (even negative) , questions, and requests, it helps me understand what builders want. That turns into popular design which turns into revenue.

It's a continuous growth cycle. You should see some of the designs that never got released from years ago! :shock: Maybe I'll post some pictures for just a laugh. One comes to mind that I named it "pig". Wasn't much more than a box but it was so ugly it was hard to ignore it.

Anyway, it's been fun growing with you all. Looking forward to continuing. 8)

Re: Why we are lucky

Posted: Thu Nov 17, 2011 3:47 pm
by tx river rat
I think that is a big part of the success of your designs, and the respect of folks building your boats.
Ron

Re: Why we are lucky

Posted: Thu Nov 17, 2011 6:02 pm
by goanywhere
jem wrote:.... When I get feedback (even negative) , questions, and requests, it helps me understand what builders want. That turns into popular design which turns into revenue. ....
Under $100 for the plans but $000's worth of support. It was this forum that convinced me to attempt the Sabalo as a first-time build. Without the support of dozens here I would never have even contemplated such a complex project. The results speak for themselves, and will result in lots of referrals.

Matt, by establishing and actively supporting this forum you have a business tool of inestimable value (as I am sure you are fully aware). Even though there are some other nice designs out there, I don't see the level of support or activity on their forums (if they have them at all), which would deter me from attempting their designs. But you have the best designs for my needs anyway.

Not only have I now a nice kayak that is much better than anything I could have bought on my budget, I have a new hobby as well! :D :D

Only problem, where am I going to find room for more boats? :?

Re: Why we are lucky

Posted: Thu Nov 17, 2011 6:15 pm
by jem
goanywhere wrote:
Only problem, where am I going to find room for more boats? :?
maybe I should sell shed plans.

Re: Why we are lucky

Posted: Thu Nov 17, 2011 6:35 pm
by Manjimike
jem wrote:
goanywhere wrote:
Only problem, where am I going to find room for more boats? :?
maybe I should sell shed plans.
:lol: :lol:

Re: Why we are lucky

Posted: Fri Nov 18, 2011 4:50 am
by Earvin
Yep agree with all the above. It's a great service you provide Matt. The number of Aussie's on here is obvious testament to that and our mere presence no doubt raises the credibility of this forum :wink: :P .

Re: Why we are lucky

Posted: Fri Nov 18, 2011 4:56 am
by PiratePete
Earvin wrote: The number of Aussie's on here is obvious testament to that and our mere presence no doubt raises the credibility of this forum :wink: :P .
That would be it :lol: :D :lol: :D :lol:

Re: Why we are lucky

Posted: Fri Nov 18, 2011 11:33 pm
by woodman
goanywhere wrote:
Only problem, where am I going to find room for more boats? :?

If you can't find the space you're..out-a-luck or "up a creek without a paddle."

For storing kayaks mabe Matt could give you ideas on a lift system...
Image