You need at least one paddle for a kayak.  Some people seem to make lots of paddles !. The paddle detailed in Nicks book was beyond my capabilities as it requires a band-saw and I don't have one. Anyway, I rather prefer the Greenland style paddles over the spoon-blade types as I think they suit the look of the boat better.

I downloaded an article on Greenland paddles by Chuck Holst from the Web.  I built a paddle using the guidelines, which for the most part are based upon your own personal dimensions.  I'm not sure if this is strictly necessary or historically accurate, but it was a unique thing to do. The idea of measuring yourself and applying these measurements to a paddle, for me,  made the paddle mine, and what more motivation for getting it right can you ask for ? Ross Leidy has not only got the same article on his site, he has cross-referenced it with his own experience of building such a paddle and so is extremely useful.

I made it completely from cedar and the main dimensions are...

I used Colron Danish Oil,  which is resin and tung-oil based, and applied four coats.  I did not  apply varnish, epoxy, cloth etc.  The finish is nice to the touch and the paddle is light. I am slightly worried that it may be a bit too light but then I am planning on making more paddles of various sizes so I'll always have a apare !  I used Cascamite, a water-proof glue for the paddle.

I made a second paddle,  using a central strip of mahogany and increasing the length to 90".  This weighs 3 lbs. I prefer to use this one, but it is more tiring because of its length and weight.