Gibban

After cutting out a blank, the next step requires marking out the paddle with pencil lines to guide you in the shaving of the blade, shaft and grip. Warren's book has some templates that you can copy and cut out to help with marking, but I was taught a more hands-on method that allows better customization for every different paddle design. It involves simple measuring and marking with a straight-edge ruler and combination square. Marking the Blade 1. If not already done, mark out the centre line on the whole face of the paddle (from grip to shaft). Even though you will be shaving off these lines, they are necessary for other paddle dimensions. 2. Measure the blade (from paddle tip to where it meets the shaft) and divide into thirds. Mark a line across the blade and down the edges 2/3rds up from the tip (ie, 30 inch blade would be marked at 20 inches from the tip). The markings on the edges are the real important guidelines...at these points the blade tapers up to form shoulders wit...