Several Etsy stores have been stocking the handmade wooden spanking paddles since September last year

While many have praised the vendors for their craftsmanship, others claim the items promote child abuse

One seller says they have been bombarded with dozens of 'nasty messages' and are now offering a discount on the paddles as an act of defiance

Another vendor says the paddles are not intended for use, and are designed to be decorative objects 

The American Academy of Pediatrics has warned parents against spanking children, calling it 'ineffective and harmful'