Letting the epoxy tack up before sticking the fabric to it may serve to hold the fabric in place. However, it is likely the fabric will not wet out clear. The sticky epoxy will only partially into the cloth. And the next application of fresh epoxy may be blocked from soaking in by the partially cured epoxy.

When I make paddles, I do not attempt to wrap the cloth. Instead I apply a cord or rope around the perimeter of the paddle and then glass over this on both side. An 1/8" diameter parachute cord perimeter is very tough.

If the 1/8" diameter is not thick enough to cover the edge of your paddle, you blade is too thick. With 2 ounce glass on either side and a rope edging, an 1/8" thick blade is very strong and quite lightweight.