Don’t know how you want to present your ceremony details yet? A paddle fan is a fun way to incorporate your ceremony details while serving a dual purpose — it can keep guests cool during warm spring and summer weddings.

“And they lived happily ever after…” All brides and brides-to-be wish that happily ever after is just as easy as 1, 2, 3. But you don’t have to be a wreck preparing for your  most awaited day. Planning is the 1 secret to achieving your dream wedding. One of the details that needs to be reckoned with is your program details. Make sure to do it with sense and style — like these DIY wedding program fans. Follow the steps below to customize and create these fans at home for your wedding. Enjoy!

Here’s what you will need:

Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• Wavy Jumbo Fan Sticks
• ZIG 2-Way Glue Pen (At least two if you are making over 100 fans)
• Ribbon or Twine(optional)
• Mini Corner Rounder Punch(Optional)
• Pre-Printed Program (See tip on choosing paper)
• Scissors
• Bone Folder (Optional)

TIP: Use 65lb-80lb paper for two sided fans, especially if printing on a home ink jet printer. If you are only doing a one sided fan, you should order it from a professional printer and ask for at least 110lb paper.

Step 1

Download and customize templates for your program. Once satisfied with the design, you can proceed to printing. If you have a one page design, like shown below (printed on 8.5″ x 11″ paper and folded it in half so we didn’t have to make any cuts), it’s best to 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.

TIP: Sometimes it is difficult to get a nice crease when working with thicker paper so we suggest using a bone folder. Simply line up the corners and use the bone folder to smooth out the crease. You can find bone folders in craft sections, craft stores and art supply stores.

Step Two

Now that your program is ready, its time to turn it into a fan! Lay it on a flat surface, apply a generous amount of glue to one side where the stick goes, and place the stick on the fan. Press firmly and assure that it is straight.

Step Three

Apply glue around the edges and fold immediately. Remember to be generous with the glue where the stick will be placed. The image below shows where glue should be applied.

Step Four

Press each edge firmly, assuring that all edges are sealed. Make sure to use clean fingers or use a clean bone folder or your programs! Even a small amount of grease or glue can leave a mark on your beautiful program design.

Step Five

Add the finishing touches to your fan. Use corner punches, apply ribbon or twine, or come up with your own embellishment to personalize your fans.

And, voila! You now have your DIY wedding program fans! You can explore other ideas on how to decorate your fan.