Out of the packaging, the striking pink color and the light weight of the product are probably the first things that you will notice. The construction is simple; a flat, two-sided paddle constructed of a fake leather stitched over padding and a stiffening bar. The Blush is bright pink on one side - with an 'XOXO' stencil-like cut-out, and black on the other side.

At the outset, let's not pretend that this is a 'serious' instrument for the sadist (or masochist, for that matter) but is a fun, novelty item. It belongs under your pillow, and not in your dungeon toy bag.

The quality of materials and manufacturing are reflected in the price - this product is almost disposable at its 'below $10' price point. I don't expect to see years of hard service from the Blush, but it's small enough to hide in a pocket and produce as a conversation piece at a party.

It's an ideal toy to use to introduce someone 'new' to something a little different from a bare-handed slap. To someone new, it may look a little intimidating, but it is almost impossible to do any real damage. Want to see how (s)he reacts to a little BDSM? Reach under the pillow and pull this out. Watch for that look of fear, fascination, or pleasure - and get to work!

With a little practice, and a degree of confidence, it IS possible to leave an 'XOXO' mark - but this takes one good hit, preferably somewhere fresh and pale, to achieve. The Blush paddle does just that - it leaves a little blush, which quickly fades. It stings without really hurting, so it's ideal either for an introduction, a warm-up before something more, or just as a little fun. I'll often give one to a new sub as a souvenir of their first paddling.