The new batch of paddles is done and is now beeing packed up for shipping.

This is the Freestyle paddle.  White cedar blade and shaft core, walnut shaft facings and grip.  Herringbone blade trim with walnut strips.  2 oz. fiberglass covering over the balde and shaft.

 

 

 

I received an order in February for a new Freestyle paddle.  This order is from a previous client.  I particularly appreciate orders from previous client as it is a real expression of support.  Anyway, this order specifically used the word "distinctive" as a design criteria.

So, I took the opportunity to try a couple of things that I've been wanting to try out for awhile.  This paddle is using a white cedar shaft core and blade, walnut shaft facings and grip, and a walnut blade border incorporating a kind of herringbone pattern within it.

And just one more, who could resist?

The new Esprit canoe is finished and delivered. Time for some photos!

Here she is sitting pretty on the dock.

Long shot of the interior. I love how all that Walnut works together.

And the new owner trying a cross post. Who says that new wooden canoes ar eonly bought by wealthy old people?! If you are familiar with Freestyle paddling, also known as Advanced Quietwater Paddling Technique, you will instantly notice that he has some work to do on his technique. He is new to this approach to paddling but is a good paddler and it will come. At this point he has had about 4 hours in the canoe. If you are not familiar with Freestyle paddling, then he's looking awesome!

A couple of nice long shots.

I've been selling plans for home canoe building for a few years. The most popular plans are for the Elan and the Red Fox.

Recently, I sold a set of Elan plans to a fellow in Brazil. It seems that he is working very hard to establish North American open canoeing in his home country, and is developing a special interest in Freestyle paddling.

You can see his work here: http://www.companhiadecanoagem.com.br/

Mark Molina went over to deliver a Freestyle course, and recommended the Elan as a suitable canoe for building. Thanks,Mark!

Mark and Becky Molina: http://www.canoeandkayak.cc/

Freestyle canoeing: http://www.freestylecanoeing.com/

Both canoes are 14' length with 30" beam. The Red Fox is a copy of an old Chestnut Fox, and is a great all-round solo canoe. The Elan is my own design, is a good general purpose canoe for a skilled paddler, and a great Freestyle canoe.



This is Mark paddling an Elan of my construction. I wish that I could paddle as well as he can, he's one of the best!

Below are photos of canoes built to the Elan plans. Nice job, all.