> I did see that. And I figured, according to thier formula, that 1/4 x 3/4
> strips would give a 1-1/2" shaft. I am a little unsure how to blend
> it into the blade though. If you were to taper it at each end, and then
> laminate tapered strips for the blade it might work pretty well. I think
> it would be quite lightweight. My spokeshave must either be cheap or dull,
> or a combination. It doesnt work all that well.

I saw the article too, and am planning on starting a paddle of that design in the next week or two. It looks like you could make a very lightweight paddle shaft. I plan on plugging each end as deep as the blade or slicing it open to slide a thick blade in. I will probably do a 1-1/4 x 1-1/2 inch shaft for strength and feel. I'll try it in both red and yellow cedar.

Mike