5.5mm ply for Melanesia

[Nathan Stanley]

Hi All,

I live in Japan, and marine ply is extremely difficult to source (most wooden boats here are built from lumber). Even more so, 6 or 6.5 mm. What is plentiful, is 5.5 mm exterior-grade ply. It isn't the greatest looking, but it is what's available. It is cost prohibitive to ship here from US, particularly for just 2 sheets. I haven't sourced from other locations.

If I use this, would it be prudent and/or acceptable to sheath the exterior in 4oz cloth to make up the difference in thickness/strength? I don't want to add too much weight either.

Thanks for any advice!

Nate