Spanking paddles can deliver a memorable beating.
The rhythmical thud against my skin makes me squirm and squeal in equal measure, and I’m never sure whether to beg for mercy or beg for more.
Using a spanking paddle for the first time can be daunting, but I’m here to provide practical advice, step-by-step techniques, and creative scenarios. If you want to find out how to use a spanking paddle, read on…

How to choose the right spanking paddle
Spanking paddles come in a range of colours, shapes, and materials and deliver a thud when used for impact.
Most of the paddles I have encountered are rectangular, but you’ll also find rounded, heart-shaped, and even palm-shaped paddles. The wider the paddle, the larger the surface area of skin you’ll strike.
A basic, flat paddle is perfect when you’re starting out.
Black is the color of choice for many, but colored implements are playful and make a nice change. One of my favorite tools is a black paddle with the word “slut” stitched on in scarlet red letters.
As you gain experience, you can try out a spanking paddle with studs – not for the fainthearted, but perfect for those who enjoy a more painful experience.
If you’re new to spanking, I would suggest you go for a real leather or artificial leather paddle. Real leather is tough and hard-wearing, and heavy paddles can deliver a good whack.
If you’re not keen on products made from animal products, a good-quality imitation or PU leather spanking paddle will provide similar results.

Wooden paddles look classy and are perfect for those with BDSM experience under their belts. Durable wooden paddles deliver a seriously thuddy smack, so they must be handled with care.
Play it safe with a spanking paddle
When you’re engaging in any BDSM activity, safety is key.
Discuss how the scene will play out, and make sure everyone involved fully consents. You also need to outline boundaries and limits and identify safe words and signals.
Before you pick up your tool and start paddling your partner, familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of impact play. Certain body areas are ripe for paddling, and some are no-go zones.
Read: Erotic spanking: How to properly spank your partner?
The buttocks make an ideal target as they are fleshy and take impact well. The upper thighs can take some impact too, but don’t go in overly hard and heavy.
While bums and thighs are good for a spanking, there are some places you should stay away from. Avoid the lower back as hitting this area can damage the kidneys.
Striking the spine, bones, and joints can also cause injury, so avoid this at all costs.
Basic spanking paddle techniques for beginners
Newbies should take it slow when getting to grips with paddling their partner.
I would advise a warm-up before engaging in impact play. I prefer a gentle hand-spanking to warm my cheeks before a cold, hard leather paddling.
How to hold and handle a spanking paddle
Spanking implements shouldn’t be handled with care, especially if you’re new to BDSM.
Always hold your spanking paddle firmly by the handle by wrapping your fingers around the shaft. It’s a good idea to practise moving the paddle up and down and tapping yourself on the thigh to check your grip is satisfactory.
How to control force and precision
Like any new spanking tool, you’ll need to get a feel for how much force you need to use. Try hitting a target, e.g. a cushion, aiming for the middle, with a few practice strikes.
When you strike your partner for the first time, use minimal force and build up slowly.
Basic spanking paddle swings
Don’t get too caught up on creative ways to whack. Keep it simple when you’re starting by using a forward swing. Keep the paddle straight rather than angled, and use it to strike the fleshy part of the buttocks

Advanced spanking paddle techniques and variations
When you’re ready to ramp play up, you can move on to more advanced spanking paddle techniques.
Building rhythm and varying force
Try varying the intensity of the spanks.
A light paddling to the buttocks followed by harder smacks can prove intense. Move the paddle to the back of the thigh and repeat the pattern of strikes to that area before returning to the ass cheeks for a final flourish.
Combining play with other BDSM acts
Team a good paddling with other BDSM activities for an extra dose of naughty fun. I like to be forced to kneel before a spanking, and being made to beg for a paddling is a mind-fuck worth trying if you’re interested in erotic humiliation.
Creative spanking paddle scenarios for BDSM fun
Spanking paddles can be used to bolster a D/s (Dominant/submissive) dynamic.
Punish your submissive as part of a BDSM contract, or use the paddle as a fun way to engage in your spanking fantasies.
Power exchange
Dominants can use spanking as a way to punish their partner or reinforce a D/s dynamic. A spanking paddle can be used as a deterrent against rule-breaking and to punish submissives for infringements.
Role play
You don’t have to embark on a D/s lifestyle relationship to have fun with a spanking paddle.
Get into character as a harsh teacher dealing with a student who has neglected to do their homework. A sound paddling makes for a perfect punishment.
Read: 14 erotic role-play prompts and scenarios to try with your partner
Alternatively, adopt a Master and slave scenario where you order the slave to fetch and carry, do household chores, and serve you. When your slave messes up or neglects to carry out their duties, you can punish them with a paddling.
Spanking paddles at the ready
BDSM can liven up your sex life and add extra sparkle to your D/s dynamic. Spanking paddles are good fun to use, providing you use them correctly.
Don’t forget to warm up the booty before you paddle, and start with light taps before you move on to huge whacks.