Create the traditional paddle used by Northwoods travelers for hundreds of years. In this course—a North House classic—students will learn about wood selection and wood grain considerations as well as paddle sizing and the theory of shape as applied to handles, shafts, and blades. Choose from a variety of different classic paddle designs and leave the course with a custom-designed paddle constructed with simple hand tools, including a traditional spokeshave and block plane. Many students have shared this experience with a child or grandchild, creating two paddles and memories that will last a lifetime. Youth ages 12+ welcome with an adult.

Required Tools

North House will provide all the required materials and tools for this project.

Optional Tools

• Spokeshave
• Drawknife
• Eye and ear protection
• Carving knife
• Aluminum yard stick