Started out with 3 - 8' X 6" X 5/8"cedar fence panels. I selected one board dark and the other 2 were lighter. I had to run them through the planer to get the all about 1/2" thick and uniformly smooth and clean.
Cut a basic shape out and found these things were greeeeennn. Had to press them flat for a couple of weeks to dry. I used a heat gun on them almost every night to speed the process.
Once I got the general shape I wanted for the paddle I marked the center board for a final cut for the blade shape.
Then marked the outer boards to shape the blade support brace.
Then I shaped the support braces to try and keep them uniform.
Once everything was cut and shaped they were glued together.
Once everything was dried the hand shaping of the shaft began. Praise God for good sharp planes.
Then the shaping of the blades with my ROS.
Final sanding touches by hand.
Resin coat to seal the wood.
Varnish to finish.
Rubber electrician's tape (not plastic) for handles.
Now I have a 244 cm paddle for my wide boats with the high seats.
