The boards are in thin strips. The glue is Titebond III. The fiberglass and epoxy are composite miracles. Put it all together, along with just a few tools, and some time, and your first paddle is the result!
Whether a 2x4 from the lumberyard, or vertical grain western red cedar, a paddle you build can be a simple utilitarian tool, or a work of art suitable for the living room, when you are not using it. Just like a house, paddles fit the Design Plan Build sequence.
Jeff gives an interactive show and share presentation that offers up examples of Design ideas, Planning requirements, and Building tips.
The same basic techniques work not only for canoe paddles of all types, but paddleboard and kayak paddles, as well. Oars and decorative paddles are possible, too.

A paddle, like a house, starts with ideas and curiosity. Collect a few pictures, look at what others are doing, maybe find a wood source and see what's available. That's the core of design. Now look at an old paddle. Measure it. Decide what you like and what to do differently. Round up some tools. Find a workspace. That's the gist of a plan. Make some sawdust, bend a few laminates (or not), and work through the steps it takes to build your own paddle!