A memorable parade starts months before the first float rolls. Krewes that plan their throws early get better designs, better prices, and enough stock to reach every crowd along the route. This planning guide walks krewe captains, float lieutenants, and throw chairs through the steps of designing and ordering a signature throw that riders are proud to hand out.
Start With a Signature Throw
Every strong krewe has a signature throw that fans hope to catch. It might be a full-color medallion with the krewe crest, a molded custom shape tied to the parade theme, or a hand decorated collectible for the front of the crowd. Decide early what your signature piece will be, because it sets the tone for the rest of the order. See ideas on our krewe beads page.
Build a Throw Budget
Work backward from the number of riders and the length of the route. A rider on a long route throws far more than most first timers expect, so estimate a generous count per rider and multiply. Split the budget between a smaller run of premium signature throws and a larger run of everyday beads and doubloons. Higher quantities earn better price breaks, so ordering as a full krewe beats each rider buying alone.
Lock the Theme and Artwork Early
Once the parade theme is set, gather the artwork. A vector crest, the krewe name, the year, and the parade theme all belong on the signature medallion. Clean art prints sharp, so send the best files you have or ask us to lay out the design. Our artwork guidelines cover file types and color matching.
Choose Your Throw Mix
Most krewes order a mix of products for different moments in the parade:
- Full-color medallion beads for the signature crest throw
- Custom shape beads molded to the parade theme
- Custom doubloons in aluminum or colored finishes for collectors
- LED light-up beads for night parades
- Custom lanyards for riders, captains, and staff
Set Your Timeline
Parade season fills the production calendar, so order early. A safe timeline is two to three months before your parade for signature molds and full-color runs, which leaves room for proofs, production, and shipping. Most custom orders finish in 14 days or less, but during the busy weeks before Carnival the smart move is to be early rather than rushed. We ship to all 50 states.
Coordinate the Whole Krewe
One order for the whole krewe beats a dozen small ones. It earns better pricing, keeps the design consistent, and makes reorders simple next season. Assign a single throw chair to collect counts, approve the proof, and place the order. Once your design is on file, next year is a quick reorder.
Learn From Parade Cities
Krewe traditions vary by city. New Orleans krewes lean into signature medallions and doubloons, while Mobile mystic societies carry their own throws and history. See city specific ideas on our New Orleans krewe beads and Mobile Mardi Gras beads pages, and browse parade options on our custom parade beads page.
Plan Your Krewe Throw Today
Send your crest, theme, and rider count and we help you build a throw mix that fits your route and budget. Browse the custom bead shop, call (877) 723-2348, or contact us to start your krewe order.
Track What Works Each Year
After the parade, note which throws drew the biggest reaction and which ran out first. A quick review while it is fresh guides next season, so you order more of the winners and less of what sat in the bag. Keep the approved artwork on file and adjust the counts, and each year the order gets sharper.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should a krewe order throws?
Order two to three months before your parade, especially for custom molds and full-color runs. Parade season fills the calendar, so early orders avoid the rush.
How many throws does each rider need?
Estimate generously, because a rider on a long route throws far more than expected. Count per rider, multiply by riders, and add a cushion. Call (877) 723-2348 and we help you estimate.
What makes a good signature throw?
A signature throw is unique to your krewe, often a full-color medallion with your crest or a custom shape tied to the theme. It is the piece fans hope to catch.
Can the whole krewe order together?
Yes, and it is the best approach. One order earns better price breaks, keeps the design consistent, and makes next season a quick reorder.
