: I was intending to build my first paddle
Bryan,
I'd have to agree with Paul. My workbench has about half a dozen delaminated, broken or worn paddles and oars that I'm gon'na get to some day. When I didn't know better I made a pair of 9' oars out of one piece of spruce. The looms taper from 2 1/2" to under an inch. These oars have been kept with care and still are a joy to use. The experience of finding the paddle in a piece wood is a pleasure and experience you shouldn't deny yourself.
Geo. C.