How to 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.

Things You'll Need

  • Wood blank 5 ½ feet x 6 inches x 1 ¼ inches
  • Jigsaw or band saw
  • Joiner or planer
  • Hand-plane or spoke shave
  • Varnish
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Instructions

    • 1

      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.

    • 2

      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.

    • 3

      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 must be.

    • 4

      Cut out the template with a jigsaw or band saw being careful to keep the cutout centered.

    • 5

      Use a joiner by alternating the faces of the cutout. Ensure each pass is equal on both sides to maintain balance.

    • 6

      Taper the blade from the center outward using a hand-plane or spoke shave. Maintain the width of the shaft at least to the center of the blade before tapering to ensure the structural integrity under the forces of paddling.

    • 7

      Sand the paddle by alternating between wet and dry sanding before varnishing the paddle. Varnishing the handle and throat will make the paddle last longer however many people prefer to leave the handle natural for a better grip and feel.