Preparing the Shafts - Scarfing and Tapering
Most of the paddles I make are feathered. This means the blades at each end are at an angle relative to each other. This can relieve some stress on the wrist when paddling and help cut through a headwind.
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Watch video on kayak and other small boat building as well as on-the-water small boat trips
Cutting the Blades
I use a jig I made for the band saw that helps cut a curved blade, but you can just mark the curves onto your blade blanks and make the cuts free hand.
Making Kayak Paddles - Preparing the Blanks - E1
The blades will be cut out of blanks that are 16"-18" long, about 4" thick and at least 4" wide. With wider blanks you can make more blades.
Stripping The Deck - Petrel Kayak Build - E5
In this episode of Building the Petrel Strip Built Sea Kayak, the focus is on deck stripping, with an emphasis on precision fitting and joint creation. Despite minor sound issues, Nick pushes on with details of the process of creating a tight joint for the kayak deck.Stripping to Music - Making a Kayak - microBootlegger Sport - E19
I didn't put much dialog on this video Continuing on the bottom. Fitting both ends of strips in a precise manner.
Into the Mystic - Making a Kayak - microBootlegger Sport - E18
Continuing on the bottom. Fitting both ends of strips in a precise manner.
Registration is open for the Schoodic Retreat
It was 1984 when I first paddled in the Schoodic area. This trip really changed my life.
Making a Wooden Kayak Paddle
The YouTube videos are a step-by-step guide to making kayak paddles using laminated wood. The first video focuses on preparing the raw materials, with explanations of the types of wood and their properties as well as how the pieces will be cut and glued together. The second video covers the creation of a jig for cutting the paddle blades into their final shape. The third video explores the process of cutting and shaping the shafts, including how to make a scarf joint for feathered paddles. The fourth video covers gluing the paddle blades to the shaft, and rough shaping of both. The fifth video delves into the finer details of sculpting the paddle blades, using a variety of hand tools and power tools. The sixth video shows how to create a reinforced edge using nylon cord that will be later covered in fiberglass. The seventh video demonstrates glassing the blades, including the process of applying layers of fiberglass cloth and epoxy for strength and durability. Finally, the eighth video outlines the finishing touches of assembling the feathered paddles, shaping the shafts, and sanding them in preparation for applying a clear coat.Stripping The Keel Line - Petrel Kayak Build - E4
Nick Schade introduces an innovative technique for strip-building the Petrel kayak's hull, inspired by Dan Caouette. By using a router to clean up the centerline, Nick streamlines the process and debates its educational value.
