Mash Paddle Ideas

Robert Rhoades WoodWorks

Here Are Some Ideas to Use When Selecting a Mash Paddle.

I put this page together in order to perhaps spark some ideas as well as demonstrate the types of designs that I can incorporate into a Mash Paddle. I have been asked to make Paddles for all occasions - Birthdays, Weddings, Retirements, Armed Forces Ceremonies, Brewery Openings, etc..... and have been able to make most of the paddles personal to each event.

Recently, I was asked to make a Paddle into the shape of a "Flying V" Guitar - it was a challenge, but I think I pulled it off! :-)

Laser Engraving

Along with carving and cutouts, I also offer custom Laser Engraving!

What does this mean to you? It means that just about ANY level of detail is possible!

AND, since I own the machine, the price to engrave is the same as carving!

Here's some examples of logos cut into a paddle - as you can see, they are VERY detailed

The Paddle Area

Typically, A Mash Paddle SHOULD have a number of openings in the main paddle area - this is to allow the paddle to move through the mash easily and to break up any clumps of mash during stirring. I usually accomplish this with the use of a scroll saw - cutting out any number of shapes from simple hops flowers to entire battleships!

While I would recommend larger, more "simple" shapes to allow the grains to flow through easily, just about anything is possible.

I offer a number of shapes and lengths of paddles, however my most requested shape sports a rounded bottom and is about 3 1/2" / 9 cm wide and comes in four "common" sizes:

"The Mini" - at only 33" / 84 cm long, can be used for Homebrewers but is usually ordered to be given as a presentation gift.

"The Homebrewer" - at 41" / 104 cm long, it's the perfect length for the homebrewer.

"The Homebrewer Elite" - at 48" / 123 cm long, it's a great length for those really tall mash tuns.

"The Craftbrewer" - 55" / 140 cm of solid hardwood makes the IDEAL paddle for 5-8bbl systems used by Craft Brewers all over the world.

I also routinely make a paddle with a squared off bottom and tapered sides - it's more of a "classic" shape and some prefer the flat bottom for stirring their mash.

Here's a number of previous shapes I've incorporated - hopefully this can give you an idea of what can be done........

The Handle

The Handle is yet another area to personalize. My CNC Router can do all sorts of carving in this area, but typically this area is used to put lettering on. This TOTALLY personalizes your paddle!