How Do You Build A Canoe Paddle?
Building your own canoe is a very rewarding experience that few undertake. Before you run to the store to buy paddles for your creation consider making your own. Having paddles that match your homemade canoe adds that final touch. Building your own canoe paddle is also a great project for the family or just tinkering around. Select the wood that works best for you or matches the finish of your canoe. Softwoods tend to fray and wear faster but they are a good weight that won’t tire you out, while hardwood can last for decades and is easy to maintain. Begin with a piece of wood that is about 5 ½ feet long, at least 6 inches wide and 1 ¼ inch thick. Kiln-dried wood is best for this application and reduces cracking and splintering as the wood ages. Find a template or trace old paddles shape onto the wood you have chosen. If you want to customize the paddle to a specific person, have them sit in a chair and measure from the seat to the tip of their nose. This is the total length the paddle
