: I've built a Greenland paddle out of cedar and am looking for a system to
: protect the tips. I've epoxied and painted before and that worked well.
: But, I've seen paddles with a thick, almost rubberized, white coating on
: them. This seems like it would be a good way to go; anybody know what this
: stuff is or where to get it?

: Thanks,

: Art
Hi,

I happen to be in the process of finishing a couple of paddles right now. I bought a book on paddle making which was far too much information. My paddles are laminated ash & redwood & mahogany. Since they are mostly redwood for light weight & ease of carving I am going to fiberglass the blades. I have seen & read about 5 techniques for tip reinforcement.
1. Strip of brass
2. 1/8" nylon rope & epoxy
3. Cut a slot & insert a hard material(Requires a jig & table saw)
4. Cover blade with fiberglass & trim 1/4" long. Build up epoxy at blade's edge
5. Apply a strip of kevlar

I think that I will do #4. I included a link for that process.