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Kayak Paddle Building
Do-it-yourself boaters will enjoy building their own kayaks to paddle around in. After building something as large and complex as a boat, kayak paddle building will seem easy by comparison. Kayak paddles are a fairly simple tool. They differ from other types of paddles in that they are double-bladed; there is a blade on each end of a shaft. This allows kayakers to paddle on both sides of the kayak without having to switch their paddle between hands. Kayak paddles are designed this way for efficiency and ease. To build a kayak paddle, you will need some basic materials. Many people building their own paddles use wood because it is easy to find and work with. You need a long, straight piece of wood for the kayak paddle shaft; a wood like spruce is better because it weighs less. Plywood can be used for the blades. A slightly thinner plywood makes a lighter blade, while thicker plywood will be more durable. Kayak paddle blades can be different shapes, depending on the preference of the builder. Tear-drop and elongated ovals are common shapes for blades. Once both the shaft and blades have been formed, they are fitted together using screws to get the placement right, then joined using an epoxy mixture. This will hold the parts of the kayak paddle together while eliminating the risk of metal screws or nails rusting away. Kayak paddle building can be done in a fairly short amount of time, and a homemade paddle is the perfect complement to homemade kayak.
Related Information
Skin on Frame Kayak Building
The materials for skin on frame kayak building are easy to find.
Stitch and Glue Kayak Building
Stitch and glue kayak building uses pieces of plywood stitched, then glued, together.