Popular Woodworking 2004-08 № 142, страница 40

which is something that I like. This strengthens the end, which is vulnerable to being cracked.

Shape the handle by first sawing a kerf across the paddle 1V2" from the end to a depth that leaves 3/8" in the center. Then drawknife away the wood for 5" along the shaft to meet your cut line. Chisel the handle to meet the cut line. I like to chisel a hollowed cut for a good finger grip.

Round the end with a block plane and use a wood rasp (a toothed file) for finishing touches as shown in the drawing below.

The shaft is made slightly oval using a bench plane to first reduce it to an octagon. This will keep it

uniform when planing the smaller edges smooth with a block plane and a curved spokeshave.

Use the spokeshave to shape the transition from the shaft to the blade. This versatile tool works equally well pulling or pushing so you can follow the change in grain direction.

Sanding and varnishing completes the paddle. Traditionally, a canoe paddle's handle is left unfinished to give you a better grip on the wood.

I have spent many enjoyable days paddling a canoe with a traditional paddle such as this. Making paddles for your children appropriate to their height is especially meaningful for a parent introducing offspring to the water. PW

Chisel a hollow approaching the saw kerf. Beware that two cut lines like this can be difficult to blend smoothly. Before cutting too far, expect to clean it up with a rasp and sandpaper.

Saw here to remaining in middle

Chisel this area Block plane this area

A block plane will round over a comfortable end. The profile shows well here. The shaft is planed into an octagon following guide lines.

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Popular Woodworking August 2004