Thread: Building a Paddle Strop

Howdy all,


I've been thinking about making a paddle strop an just had a few questions.

First would a maple be suitable for the wood or does anyone have a favorite wood of choice?

Second. Do I just slap some glue on the wood and paste the leather on? Or do I need some sort of backing first.

And last but not least. Will any old glue do to bond the leather to the wood?

I use oak but I never specifically looked for oak just what I grabbed at the store.
I sis not back mine with anything, as far as glue it depends if that old glue you have is still strong or not.
You can try 3M 77 spray, or double sided carpet tape , it works great for me.

I've made several, some with the help of other members. Never use any backing. It will just interfere with the adhesion of the leather. I used 3m spray adhesive, the "super" kind. It's pricey, but worth it. You need to spray both sides, the leather, and the wood...Think of it like spray paint. When your finished, turn the can upside down and spray for a few seconds until the glue stops coming out. When picking wood, your choices are endless. I've used Red Oak, Maple, and Walnut. Weight can be an issue, so that's something to think about.
Also, Leather, I went to Tandy. We have one locally. It's an excellent source for leather. They everything from Cowhide to Kangaroo. I bought a strip 3"w x 50" long.
The also have a scrap bin, and will normally hook you up....Good Luck....

Most glues will work. I asked a pro who made them for a living, He recommended the spray adhesive.

Here's some pics, feel free to pm me with any questions. The paddle without leather was my first attempt ever at woodworking. I used a scroll saw, and a drum sander for the bulk of finishing, hand sanding after that, it's not that pretty, but it's functional, and I learned a lot. The other 3 paddles woodwork were made by friends/members. I applied the leather....except the last one, The was entirely made by a fellow member for me. He too wanted to try his had at paddle making.
I think he did an excellent job...That's the remains of my first long English Bridle strop...(Never strop while distracted) Thanks Kelly....