After fiberglassing, I applied several coats of Epifanes Clear Gloss Varnish to act as a UV inhibitor for the epoxy. I'm sure it boiled down to inexperience but what a PITA this stuff is to apply. I brushed on the first 5 or 6 coats the build it, sanded it nice and smooth and then sprayed the last 3 coats. It takes 24 hours to dry no matter how much you thin it and because of that, dust nibs are impossible to avoid. I eventually settled on a less than perfect finish knowing it was going to get scratched and used anyway but someday I'd like to achieve that high gloss, clear-as-water finish I've seen on some paddles and kayaks.

After varnish, I epoxied on the carbon fiber ferules from Duckworks Boat Builders Supply. I wanted the paddles to be collapsible for transport but I've also read that experienced paddlers often have the blades canted (not co-planar) for a more efficient stroke. I wanted to try that with out committing to it being permanent. These allow you to lock them in either orientation.