Welcome to Paddleducks..... The home of paddle steamer modelling enthusiasts from around the world.
Hello Peter,Before you start to 'cut the wood/metal' please do not hesitate to ask the members here any questions. Paddlers can be unstable and many of us have seen hours of work come to no avail. There is a terrific amount of experience on this site.Nice to have another member from the NW.Tony Hadley (Manchester).
Peter, the best advice I can give you, is build as light as you can and increase the draft. Then add the ballast. R.G.Y.