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

Paddle fans are a fun and unique way to present your wedding ceremony details and can be personalised to fit the style of your event. They are also functional, keeping your guests cool during warm spring and summer weddings.

To make paddle fans, you will need wavy jumbo fan sticks, glue, ribbon or twine, a mini corner rounder punch, a pre-printed program, and a bone folder.

First, download and customise a template for your program. Once you are satisfied with the design, proceed to print. If you have a one-page design, fold and crease your paper before adding the glue. This way, you don't have to worry about the glue sticking or drying before it's lined up.

Next, lay your program on a flat surface, apply glue to one side where the stick goes, and place the stick on the fan. Press firmly and ensure it is straight. Apply glue around the edges and fold immediately. Press each edge firmly, ensuring that all edges are sealed.

Finally, add the finishing touches to your fan. Use corner punches, apply ribbon or twine, or come up with your own embellishments to personalise your fans.

Choosing paper

When it comes to choosing paper for your wedding paddle fans, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, if you are printing a design on both sides of the paper, it is recommended to use 65lb-80lb paper, especially if you are using a home inkjet printer. This weight paper should work well with most home printers and will give your DIY project a professional feel.

However, if you are only printing on one side, it is best to use a professional printer and opt for 110lb paper. This will ensure that your fans are sturdy and can withstand being handled by your guests.

Another thing to keep in mind is the size of your paper. A standard 8.5" x 11" cardstock is a good option, as it can be easily folded in half to create a booklet-style fan. You can also trim the paper to your desired size using a paper trimmer or scissors.

Additionally, consider the colour of your paper. Opting for a colour that complements your wedding theme or using plain white paper and decorating the handles with ribbon or spray paint can add a nice finishing touch.

Finally, when choosing your paper, make sure to do a test print to ensure that the colours and design print clearly and that the paper is compatible with your printer.

Printing

When you are happy with your design, it is time to print. You can print your paddle fan design at home or use a professional printing service. If printing at home, it is recommended to use a heavy cardstock, with 65-100 lb paper being ideal for a sturdy fan. You can also use brown kraft paper for a more rustic look.

When printing, use an 8.5" x 11" sheet of paper, and be sure to print on card stock that can handle the weight of your chosen paper. Most home printers can handle 67lb paper just fine.

Trimming

Step 1: Fold and Crease

Before you begin trimming, it is essential to fold and crease your paper. This will ensure that you have a precise fold line to work with. If you are working with thicker paper, you can use a bone folder to help create a neat crease. Line up the corners of your paper and use the bone folder to smooth out the crease.

Step 2: Trimming the Edges

Using a paper trimmer or scissors, carefully trim the three outer edges of your program. Make sure not to cut along the fold line. This step will give your fan a clean and precise finish. Take your time and be careful during this step to ensure straight and even cuts.

Step 3: Gluing the Fan Stick

After trimming, it's time to attach the fan stick. Apply double-sided tape to both sides of the fan stick and the reverse side of the program. Tape is preferable to glue as it will not leave any soggy marks on your paper. Place the fan stick in the centre of the bottom edge of the program and fold the program over the handle, pressing down to ensure good adhesion.

Step 4: Embellishments

You can add some final touches to your fan handles with ribbon, spray paint, or other embellishments. If you choose to spray paint the handles, be sure to do so before taping them to the program to avoid getting paint on your paper. Ribbon can be wrapped around the handles, and you can also punch holes in the paper and tie the ribbon through for a decorative touch.

By following these trimming steps, you will be well on your way to creating beautiful and functional paddle fans for your wedding guests!

Gluing

Step 1: Fold and Crease Your Paper

Before you begin gluing, fold your printed program paper in half. This creates a centre fold that will serve as a guide for gluing and ensure a straight fold. You can use a bone folder to achieve a neat crease, especially when working with thicker paper.

Step 2: Apply Glue to One Side of the Fan Stick

Place your folded program on a flat surface. Take your glue, either a glue pen or glue tape, and apply a generous amount to one side of the fan stick. Ensure you cover the area where the stick will be placed.

Step 3: Attach the Fan Stick to the Paper

With the glued side facing down, place the fan stick onto the glued area of the paper. Press it down firmly, making sure it is straight and centred.

Step 4: Glue and Fold the Edges

Apply glue along the edges of the paper. If using glue tape, apply it to both sides of the program. Then, carefully fold the paper over the fan handle, pressing down to ensure good adhesion. This step secures the fan stick in place and creates a neat finish.

Step 5: Embellish Your Fans (Optional)

You can further embellish your paddle fans by adding ribbon, twine, or other decorations. For a rustic look, consider using burlap ribbon. You can also round the corners of the paper with a corner punch for a softer appearance.

Embellishing

• Ribbons and Spray Paint: Using ribbons to decorate the fan handles is a simple yet elegant way to embellish your paddle fans. Gold ribbons, in particular, can add a nice finishing touch. Alternatively, you can spray paint the handles with an accent colour. Just remember to paint them before attaching them to the program to avoid getting paint on your paper.
• Corner Punches: Using corner punches is a creative way to add some flair to the edges of your fans. You can find these punches in craft sections of stores or online.
• Twine: Twine is a great option to add a rustic or natural touch to your fans. You can wrap it around the fan handles or use it to attach embellishments.
• Personalised Embellishments: Get creative and come up with your own unique embellishments! You can use items like dried flowers, pearls, or even small charms to decorate your fans and make them truly yours.

Frequently asked questions