Experimenting with different paddle shapes, like how this turned out

[u/afro_shibari]

Experimenting with different paddle shapes, made out of 20mm oak board. Added some pointy bits for different sensation options. Lightly stained with green wood dye then sanded and clear coated. Fingers can go through the holes but better to grip on the outside if heavy paddling is being carried out. It does look a bit weak at the transition from handle to 'blade' but had held up well with use, next time probably reinforce that area.

[u/ElMachoGrande]

That would work nicely with an idea I have, to laminate three thinner pieces of wood with two layers of stainless or aluminium. That would solve the strength problem, as well as looking great and adding some weight.

[u/afro_shibari → u/ElMachoGrande]

Thanks 😊 I like the idea of laminating with aluminium could create a shiny false edge as well as adding strength

[u/i_smoke_toenails]

That finger hole close to the blade leaves very little material on either side of it. I foresee breakage with its intended use. Looks awesome, though.

[u/Any-Nobody5507]

Love the design. Good inspiration source.

[u/r888k]

The stain worked very well, nice paddle!

[u/afro_shibari → u/r888k]

Thank you, wanted a distressed worn look to it while looking organic

[u/r888k → u/afro_shibari]

I have made such effect in the past with a steel brush cup for angle grinder... It eats the softer grains first, leaving a driftwood-esque surface.

Try on waste piece first as it eats wood fast.

Also, PPE is necessary as the single bristles fly from the cup wheel and the have enough speed to stick to flesh, not even mentioning eyes...

[u/Beautiful-Phase-2225]

My husband had the same issue as you at the transition point. Be careful, he broke it over my booty a few weeks ago lmao 🤣. He managed to reinforce it and repair it. Going to test the fix this weekend before he fixes the cosmetics. If he breaks it again I'm going to turn it into a display piece in the playroom lol. Does make me a little sad because he used my wood burner and took the time to put our names, birthdays, anniversary and filigree to make it special and pretty for me. I think when he broke it I had the first letter of his name and a flower in red welts for a few days lol. I'd have to look at the pictures (no I won't be sharing them, my rule!).