Wednesday, March 23rd, 2011 at
7:40 pm
Make your own sorority pledge paddle for your Big. I really like starting with a basic pine paddle and then making a one-of-a-kind sorority paddle gift with acrylic paint and a perky bow around the handle.
I looked around for some reasonable prices on sorority pine paddles and this is what I found today:
Look at Cutie Pi's Greek Ideas Site to get inspiration for painting your own paddle. Personally, I love the Cutie Pi paddles, but there are so many other options for painting sorority paddles, don't let your mind be limited to just one type of design. Look at Google Images for some great ideas for using your mascot, symbol, and or flower.
Here is an example of Google image for Chi Omega Owls
Acrylic paint can be fun to use. Just be sure that you have quality brushes or your best efforts will be less than desirable. I have learned that from experience.
1. First paint the paddle with the chosen background color. I would put on at least two coats of paint. You want it to cover completely. (for a better result, paint on sealer before painting on the color paint- Sealer is available in paint department or hardware store. Sealer may also be at craft stores, but it may be more expensive. You can probably find it at Walmart, too)
2. Decide what you want and draw it on paper first. Keep the drawing simple, put pretty. You don't need every detail on the drawing, but all the basic lines should be there.
3. You can transfer your pattern to your paddle with graphite paper which should be available at all craft stores that carry acrylic paint.
4. Once your pattern in on the paddle, paint your design. You may want to outline some of it with black paint or even a Sharpee marker. It depends on the look you are aiming for.
5. When all the painting is like you want it, spray on a varnish. I use Crystal Clear by Krylon.
6. Optional: Tie a matching ribbon around the neck of the paddle into a pretty bow. I think the ribbon makes the paddle really stand out. When I made paddles for orders, I always tied a bow on and everyone loved the outcome.
