Hello question about a paddle

[William.quella]

Hello,

I am a new Carvewright owner but have been doing woodworking for years. I have recently begun making paddles (military gifts) and I would like to build/shape them before carving so I can use multiple woods. What wood be the best way to then go about carving these to personalize them?

I have included a picture of a paddle although not multiple species of wood. I would prefer to not carve it out of a board to save on material waste.