After reading volumes of postings about building a Greenland paddle, I decided to try it myself. Using Chuck Holst's instructions, I made my first paddle using some inexpensive pine 1x4's laminated together with Tightbond III. I did the rough cutting on my band saw and carved with a combination of block plane and spokeshave. After getting the shape roughed in, I discovered that the laminated board had a slight hook on one end but I decided that since this was my first attempt, I would go ahead and use it as a learning exercise.

After finishing the carving and sanding, I found that the paddle had a slight balance preference for one side due to the hook in the board. Oh well, I finished it anyway. I finished it with Tung oil and it looks and feels "OK" and I'll try it out when the weather warms up a bit.

But, now I understood that a good straight board and attention to balance was required so I picked two prime cedar 2x8's I had been saving for something special and decided to start paddle #2. I built up a very straight 1 1/2" x 3 1/2" board using 9 laminations of dark red and light cedar. I very carefully laid out the rough cut lines and cut on my bandsaw and checked the balance and it felt good. So, I continued and began carving the shape.

I've got about 10 or so hours in building the paddle and I think it came out nice. The balance feels good from one side to another and the oval shaft feels really nice in my hands. I can't wait to go paddling with it when I take my family to Jekyll Island on Spring Break in early April.

I think I may be hooked on making paddles. Man, is this hobby ever addicting. Now, need to go and put a few strips on the Spring Run out in the garage...

Attached is a pic of one of the blade ends..... I'll post a couple more as well....

Let me know what you think of my second attempt...

Bob Beaullieu