: I made two GPs by laminating redwood 'blades' onto a douglas fir shaft. The
: paddles may be a bit heavier than my WRC paddle, but the strength of the
: douglas fir allowed me to shape a small loom and still have a reasonably
: stiff paddle. Now that I've carved, tested are reshaped them to my liking
: (although they are xmas presents), I wonder what the most appropriate
: finish is to best preserve the contrast between the fir and the redwood. I
: fear the normal tung oil treatment will significantly reduce the contrast
: and make it a light brown / dark brown paddle. Despite many people's
: aversion to spar varnish, that would yellow the color only a touch. Are
: there any better suggestions?

Tung oil, lots of coats, gives by far the best feel for a wood paddle and looks nice.

Bill H.