Since I have some extra time at the moment i'm going to start building some more paddles. I just cut a bunch of cedar, poplar, and mahogany for the shafts. The blades will be similar but with some koa as well.

I'll post pics when they're done. In the meantime these are a few of my first experiments. #'s 1 and 2 were much too heavy...ended up becoming wall art. #1 with some pyrography added and auctioned for charity (Save the Children) #2 a gift for PonoBill.


#1 and 2...1 on left


Mako Inlays


Pyrography - humpback cow and calf

#3 was great until I snapped the shaft in the bitter cold ...now a canoe paddle (going to add some glass to the next bunch and orient the wood for strength). #4 was a weird experiment that didn't work...still need to reshape it one of these days.


#3 Back


#3 scooped power face....very nice feel and really moved water.


One slight problem though.....


#4 back


#4 face....total failure...too weird for words

#5 will be a cross between my #3 and a Malama. I doubt I'll get it as refined as he does though.....what an amazing craftsman he is.

Should keep me busy when there's no waves. I have enough wood cut for about 4 paddles. We'll see what comes out.

Yeah, very nice Bob. Can't wait to see the next generation.

Do you reckon you could post photos at key points through the process so we can see their progress (or are there too many trade secrets that you don't want to get out )?

awesome work Stoneaxe , how long do they take you?