How long is a sorority paddle?

Fraternity Sorority Paddles 14 inch, Pack of 1 Unfinished Greek Wooden Paddle, Smooth Birch for Decorating and Painting, by Woodpeckers.

What size is a normal sorority paddle?

(Official) Sorority/Fraternity 22" Greek Square Paddle.

Why do sororities give out paddles?

The fraternity and sorority paddle is most commonly used today as a decorative keepsake representing brotherhood or sisterhood and is given as a gift according to a local chapter's traditions. The history of the paddle, however, is rooted in violence and remains both a tool and symbol of hazing in Greek organizations.

Do sororities use paddles?

To most sorority alumnae today, paddles represent sisterhood, pride, and tradition. Unfortunately, paddling continues to be used as a hazing tool in fraternities, and although less frequently, sororities too.

Do you paint the back of sorority paddle?

Paint it. The first step in making your paddle is to paint it. You may be staining it, painting it, or decorating the paddle in some way, but this step should be done first. Painting is most common.

DIY Custom Made AKA Paddle | Step By Step

How do you seal a Greek paddle?

To apply the paper, trace the loose shape of your paddle on the back of the paper. Then, apply an even coat of modge-podge to the wood and carefully apply the paper. Smooth out any bumps or ripples while the glue is still wet. When the paper is pressed down firmly, seal it with another coat of sealant on top.

Do bigs give Littles paddles?

Sorority paddles are gifts in Greek Life that littles give their bigs or bigs give their littles as a sign of their bond and sisterhood within the sorority. Sometimes the paddle has a theme that links the sisters – something they have in common besides the sorority.

Does hazing still happen?

Indeed, hazing is not only banned by most colleges and universities but also violates laws in nearly every U.S. state, but these incidents continue to occur. A recent NBC News report noted that, from 2000 to 2021, at least 50 college students died from hazing incidents.

Why do sororities exist?

Fraternities and sororities were established to further the social, scholastic and professional interests of its members. They are mainly associated with colleges and universities.

What are paddles used for?

When used for paddling a boat, a paddle is a simple solid tool, flat at one end, used to propel a boat in a direction opposite its applied force. A mixing paddle is used to more thoroughly mix separate ingredients within a mixture.

How do you paint a paddle?

Why do fraternities use paddles?

The Paddle's Place in the Greek Community

To show their appreciation, little brothers and sisters present their mentor with a paddle as a sign of gratitude, loyalty and respect. Also, many fraternities give paddles to newly pledged members as a welcoming sign of inclusion into the chapter.

Where did hazing come from?

Hazing has a deep history dating back to 387 B.C. with the founding of Plato's Academy. At the time, hazing was called “pennalism,” which meant “a system of mild oppression and torment practiced upon first-year students.” While Plato criticized the practice, it continued throughout the middle ages.

What do you put on the back of a sorority paddle?

How do you seal a painted paddle?

Sealing your new decorative paddle can be done using either a spray-on sealer or brush-on sealer. Sanding in between multiple coats offers the best results and a finish that will protect your paddle for many years to come. If you plan to use this paddle for canoeing.

How do you seal a wooden paddle?

Touch Up: seal any exposed wood with varnish on a regular basis. Lightly sand area, apply a diluted (by 10%) coat of finish and let dry. Lightly sand area again and apply a full strength coat of varnish. Complete Refinish: strip all finish off the paddle using sand paper.