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So I've stitched up the notch in the bottom three different times, and I still have this strange dip in the bow. Does this come out when I stitch on the sides, or do I need to re-cut the notch?

Do you mean the front part of the bottom panel ?

İf so, joining those panels was actually on of the hardest panel assembly on the whole boat. İf i tried to really close the gap pulling hard on the ties in order to get the panels to join, I would end up with way too much rocker and a very assimetric distorsion with one of the panels making a strange "bong" sound and twisting, thus either increasing or decreasing the V.
İ ended up closing the gap as much as possible while still maintaining an acceptable symetric shape, with correct rocker and V. However, that left me with a lager large gap between both panels wich was later reinforced with carbon fiber.
İ guess İ must have overcut that middle seam to start off with.

Are you using a build cradle? I didn't even stitch the bottom because after getting it secured into the cradle the two sides just came together. Things get stronger when you get the hull sides stitched and the transom in. Before you fillet and tape the inside chine it is possible to move things around some. If what your experiencing is a slight twist it will likely correct itself when the sides are stitched.

I had to open up the v cut a little bit to get those panels to come together correctly.

Ron

Thanks guys, it's nice to know I'm not alone on this one. I found that I could keep a good shape if I do like you guys are suggesting, and don't pull the ties tight. And yes, I have Chad's build jig, he passed it on to me, thanks Chad!!