How to Make a Wooden Canoe Paddle

There is a lot to consider when choosing a canoe paddle. What type of water will you be paddling in? What length paddle do you need? What material should it be made from? Is the grip comfortable? What type of blade should your paddle have? Instead of simply trusting the salesman that your paddle will be just what you want while you are on the water, why not make your own paddle and experiment with what works best for you? Though some paddles take some time to make, you will have the satisfaction of building your own custom paddle and probably save a few dollars in the process.

Things You'll Need

  • Jigsaw
  • Drill
  • Wood, size TBD
  • Plane
  • Knife
  • Polyurethane
  • Sandpaper
  • Sander
  • 1/4-inch plywood
  • Closet rod
  • Epoxy resin
  • Stainless steel screws
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Instructions

  1. Wood Paddle

    • 1

      Determine the best design for your paddle. Consider paddle-length, blade-width and comfort.

    • 2

      Transfer that design onto your chosen piece of wood. Softwood is easier to carve, while hardwood is more resistant to water.

    • 3

      Using the jigsaw, cut around the outline so you have your basic paddle shape.

    • 4

      With a plane or knife, carve an angle to the blade and around the handle.

    • 5

      Use sandpaper or an electric sander to smooth the surface of the entire paddle.

    • 6

      Apply a coat of polyurethane or other water sealant to extend the life of your paddle.

    Plywood Paddle

    • 7

      Determine the size and shape of your paddle blade. Draw your design on a piece of 1/4-inch plywood. A wide blade is more powerful in the water, but a thin blade is more efficient.

    • 8

      At one end of the closet rod, cut a groove in the center. It should be approximately 1/4 inch wide and at least 4 inches deep.

    • 9

      Slide the blade into the groove. Attach the blade with stainless steel screws through the closet rod and the blade.

    • 10

      Measure from the bottom of the blade to the top of the closet rod and cut the rod at the desired length.

    • 11

      Cut a 4-inch piece of closet rod.

    • 12

      Cut a tenon into the top end of the paddle's shaft (closet rod) and attach the 4-inch piece of closet rod with a screw so you have a T handle.

    • 13

      Finish the paddle by sanding and sealing it with polyurethane or an epoxy resin.