[header] How to build a plywood boat [title] Decide which body of water you will be using the boat on. [step] Then choose an appropriate boat design for this body of water. You will never have a boat that will do everything, so don't even try. 
Don't build a 24' tolman alaskan skiff expecting to use it on a small lake, midwest river, or pond. On the other hand, taking your 12' rowboat 10 miles (16 km) out in the gulf of mexico is probably not the best idea either! [title] Buy plans from a reputable boat designer.