> Yes, I really don't know about wood. The instructions I have seen have
> reccomended quarter sawn fir or cedar. Here in Atlanta, there are tons of
> yellow and southern pine, but not so much good quality fir and no spruce
> that I have yet come across. I finally found some high quality cedar and
> grabbed it. Apparently, white and red oak is also available quarter sawn
> and I have seen some decent (but not really quartersawn) appropriately
> sized pieces of maple and poplar at Home Depot. Do you think I should
> glass the paddle? Will that help with fracturing? I have heard that simply
> oiling the paddle gives a nice feel and decent grip whereas serious
> varnishing etc., can make it too slippery (and I believe that a previous
> post said something about varnished shafts having a higher incidence of
> blisters).

> Dave Long leaf yellow pine is godawful strong,and just as heavy.Same for oak,,and poplar is not suitable as it is also somewhat brittle.Considering the cost of some 2x3 or 2x4 spruce,less than $3 for an 8 foot piece,cost considerations are not a concern.Even clear Sitka,the best spruce for spars andoars/paddles,wont cost more than $20 a piece,so you can have a collection for $100.I dont think any other wood or combination of woods can give the quality,usefulness,and feel of spruce.As to finishes oil or varnish ,1/1 with solvent,will give a durable usable finish,and no blisters ,which gloss will give.Notice that axe ,hoe and pulling oar handles are left unfinished or given a seal coat of oil.If you choose your grain well,the only glass you may need is on the ends of the blades,to give added strength to the thin ends,as they will contact rocks,gravel and be used to push off,etc.By all means paint part of the blades yellow,leave the loom oiled or varnished sealed.Make a bunch ,they are easy to make and a lot of fun,and make great gifts. Jerry