My chapter didn't use the traditional paddles. We gave our bigs wood blocks that were cut into different objects. There was a greek store by the University that sold these types of paddles but they're no longer in business. I'm not sure where the girls in my chapter go now to get their paddles.
We had "Paddle Parties" where the new pledge class would gather together at this store to decorate their big's paddle. They had paint, glitter, and adhesive letters/symbols for our use.
My big is into synchronized swimming so I got her a paddle with a swimmer cut out. I collect stuffed animal pigs and other pig paraphenalia so my little got me a pig paddle.
