How to Make Greek Paddles
Fraternities and sororities often subdivide members into smaller units called "families" in which older members are assigned to sponsor and guide specific new members. Wooden paddles are sometimes handed down to the younger generations of these families as a tradition because they are easily customized and can keep a visual record of family history over the years. A variety of pre-made paddles are available for purchase in Greek life specialty stores or online. Some may already be partially decorated with letters or symbols, but you can hand-decorate plain wooden paddles to make the gift more personal.
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Instructions
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Design your paddle. Wooden pieces are common decorations to match the wooden paddle, but you could also try other materials such as fabric or foam. Include the letters, crest, and symbols unique to the sorority or fraternity in question. To further personalize your paddle, add the recipient's name or other symbols of significance.
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Paint your paddle, if that's part of the design, before adhering any decorations. Also, if you wish to paint the items you've chosen to attach to the paddle, do so before gluing them to the wood. Allow these pieces to dry completely.
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Glue the pieces down on the paddle surface. Allow the glue to dry.
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Tips & Warnings
While wrapping is optional, you might try adding a bow to make the gift more special.
Fraternity paddles tend to be less decorative than sorority paddles. If you are making a paddle for a young man, keep the decorations simple, including the basics: the letters, symbols, and most importantly, the crest.
These gifts are usually hung up on walls, so it is only necessary to decorate one side of the paddle.
