06/19/2026
Over the course of 2–3 classes, participants learned how to build their own bent-shaft canoe paddle under the guidance of Don Carlson. Each participant had the opportunity to design and customize their paddle, creating something uniquely their own.
This was the third paddle-building class Don has taught, and we hope there will be more in the future!
Don crafted his very first paddle in 1999 and has been creating them ever since. He works with a variety of woods, including cedar, birch, black walnut, and others. Whether he is making a paddle for himself or for someone else, he enjoys incorporating unique handles and custom design elements that make each paddle one of a kind.
We were thrilled to welcome Don and his class to the Headwaters Science Center. Thank you, Don, for your hard work, dedication, craftsmanship, and passion for teaching!
