Mash Paddle

I grew up around a very hands on family. Growing up my dad has always enjoyed woodworking. He eventually turned his hobby into a business. I had the joy and opportunity to spend my summer and vacations home working with him. During the years I learned tons. A skill that will come in handy when I need furniture for the house. Even though it's only a small project and took all of an hour to make, a custom mash paddle was born. The paddle is made of Black Walnut, Maple, and Cherry. It was then coated with mineral oil to seal the grain.

I first took some stock and planed it down to 3/4" and glued the pieces together using bar clamps.



Once the glue dried, I unclamped it and cut it to shape.


Finally I put two coats of mineral oil on it and let it soak in for a few days before applying more. It really brought out the colors of the different woods.


Many people will claim that putting oil on the paddle will kill your head retention, that maybe so for other oils. However I have had no issues with that. I think the key is to give the wood plenty of time to soak everything up.