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Are you looking for wood paddle board plans? Making your own paddle board is fun, exciting, and gives you a tool to use for other activities. If you love to build your own stuff, this is one of the most unusual woodworking projects—we’re sure you’ll love it!
You can also consider using our wood paddle board kit to help you through the process. Below, we’ll break down everything that you need to know!
The project features a hollow core wood paddle board, which is easy to make and fun to use. If you’re ready to get out on the water, you can follow the instructions below to get started!
First, you’ll need to assemble the frame. You receive several frames with the wood paddle kit, which comes with everything you need. However, you can also build them on your own. We offer paper plans that you can use as a template, allowing you to build the board completely from scratch.
Make sure that you have a large, flat surface to work on. You’ll want to make sure you have enough space for the entire ribbing section to sit out.
You should have several frame pieces, which build your inner ribs. You’ll need to join the pieces using a wood adhesive and scrap wood with a clamp, then allow them enough time to cure. This process should make the parts extremely strong. You’ll need to go down the entire frame with this process.
Once you have the rib finished, you can then add the skins to the wood. The kit includes several manageable strips, which is much more manageable. This also ensures the skin is very secure and has a better, longer lasting bond.
Find the center of your board, then run your glue the entire way down. You’ll start adding the strips from the inside area, moving to the outer areas of the board. You don’t want to start at the ends, although you can add two strips at one time. Use this process for the top and bottom of the board.
As a tip, twisted cling wrap is strong enough to hold the strips securely to the hollow core wood. It also reduces the amount of clamps you need. Plus, you don’t need to worry if your board doesn’t look perfect—you’ll be sanding down everything nicely at the end of the project. So, you can ignore glue drips for right now.
Now, it’s time to shape your wood board! You’ll need to add the nose and tail blocks, and shape the board. Make sure you start with the tail end, you can use any type of wood, as long as it’s light weight.
You’ll use a handsaw at the end, around two inches across. You’ll want your tail piece to be the same size as what you remove. Then, when it’s cut, make sure to sand everything down to a smoother texture. Compressed air removes any debris.
From there, connect the tail block using an adhesive and clamps. You won’t want to touch it until it’s completely cured.
For the head, you follow the same steps. Although, it could be different, depending on what type of nose tip you want on the end of your board. Having one or two blocks can give the nose a different shape. Measure out from the center block, to where you want the center blocks to go on the board. Then, cut it again and repeat the previous process.
When these parts are attached and cured, you get to start shaping! Many woodworkers enjoy that step the most.
You’ll need to sand the board down from one end to the other. That way, there’s no warping or dips along the board. No matter the tool you use, you need to always go from tail to nose in a straight line. Then, always remove the same amount of wood from both sides.
Finally, make sure that you always stop and look at the board. You want to do this as often as possible. That way, you know it’s taking the proper shape. Overall, there’s no right way to go through this process—everyone sands differently.
You’ll need to add several features to the board. At least, it’s important to add a handle and bungee set up. Plus, you can use this method to add mounting areas to the paddle board. We have everything you need on our site to help you through this step. It’s your DIY paddle board, so make sure to add anything you want!
To add your inserts, you’ll measure where you want to place them and mark it on the board. Then, route out this area. You can use a thickened epoxy to secure the plastic to the wood of the board. It’s alright if the adhesive leaks out; you’ll be sanding down everything again later, so don’t worry about being clean.
Finally, you’ll need your paddle board to be waterproof! This involves laminating the board using fiberglass and epoxy. This process gives your board an entirely new, shiny appearance.
You’ll need to make sure you wear gloves when working with the epoxy. Mix the two parts of epoxy and stir. Pour the materials on the wood, then spread it evenly. You’ll also want to make sure the epoxy you use offers a good working time. If you are in need of epoxy, Jarvis Boards offers a complete kit for fiberlgassing your board which can be seen here.
Overall, doing a DIY paddle board project is a lot of fun. These woodworking projects are perfect for building your skills and learning a new craft. Plus, when you’re done, you’ll have something awesome to show for it! We recommend that you download our “how to guide” to get more help with this project.
