Creating A Wedding Paddle Fan: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding paddle fans are a fun and unique way to present your wedding ceremony details while serving a dual purpose: keeping your guests cool during warm spring and summer weddings. Making your own wedding paddle fans is easy, especially when you use a template to edit the wedding program. You can purchase templates online and customise them using a design application. Once you're happy with the design, download the template as a PDF file and print it with the crop marks option checked. Fold your template in half using the centre crop marks, then trim the template along the crop marks. You can then glue the program together, insert a paddle stick, and add your finishing touches, such as ribbon.

Choosing the right paper

For a more rustic look, you can use Kraft paper, which can be purchased from stores like Staples. Additionally, card stock weighing around 65-67lb is a good option, as most home printers can handle this weight, and it will give your fan a professional feel.

Folding and cutting

Once you have your design ready, it's time to print it out. You can use Kraft paper purchased from Staples to give it a rustic look, or opt for card stock paper, with 65-80lb weight recommended for two-sided fans, especially if you're using a home inkjet printer. If you're only doing a one-sided fan, order from a professional printer and ask for at least 110lb paper.

Now, fold your template in half using the center crop marks. This will give you an exact mark to show you the fold line. Use a bone folder to help you get a nice, neat crease.

Once you've made a good crease, trim the template along the crop marks. You can use scissors, but a paper cutter will give you the quickest and best results. Trimming the template while it's folded will help you achieve precise cuts and a neat finish.

Gluing the template

Now that your program is ready, it's time to turn it into a fan! Lay it on a flat surface and apply a generous amount of glue to one side where the stick goes. Place the stick on the fan and press firmly, making sure it is straight.

Apply glue around the edges and fold immediately, remembering to be generous with the glue where the stick will be placed. Press each edge firmly, ensuring that all edges are sealed. Make sure to use clean fingers or a clean bone folder, as even a small amount of grease or glue can leave a mark on your beautiful program design.

Try to get the glue as close to the edge of the paper as possible. When finished, set the paddle stick in place, centring it and keeping it straight. Insert the paddle stick halfway into the paper. You can purchase these paddle sticks at most craft stores.

Once you have the paddle stick in place, fold the other half of the template over and press firmly on the glued edges.

Adding the paddle stick

Next, fold the fan over the stick and press firmly for good adhesion. You can then add your finishing touches, such as ribbon or twine, to decorate the stick. You could also spray paint the handles an accent colour, but be sure to do this before taping the stick to the fan so you don't get paint on the paper.

Finishing touches

Now for the finishing touches! First, use a corner punch to round the corners of your paddle fan. You can find one of these at any craft store. Next, tie a ribbon around the paddle stick where it meets the paper. We recommend using a ribbon that complements the colour of your paper, such as gold or burlap. Cut the ribbon to 18 inches and tie it into a bow. You could also notch out the ends of the ribbon to give it a nice finished look. And there you have it! A beautiful, functional wedding paddle fan.

Frequently asked questions