How to Make Crepe Streamer Pom Poms for Cheerleading

Homemade crepe streamer pom-poms can be used for dress-up games.

Cheerleaders use pom-poms to emphasize their words, draw the attention of spectators and add to the overall effect of their movements. When you purchase a set of pom-poms, they are commonly made out of plastic; however, you can make your own out of crepe paper streamers instead. These pom-poms do not last as long, but making your own allows you to fully customize them to match the colors you need for a specific occasion.

Things You'll Need

• Crepe paper
• Scissors
• 1/4-inch diameter wood dowels or unsharpened pencils
• Vinyl tape

Instructions

1. Cut lengths of crepe paper into streamers that are twice as long as you want the pom-poms to be. For instance, if you want the pom-poms to be 4 inches, cut the streamers into 8-inch lengths. You will need at least 10 full streamers for a good-sized pom-pom. You can always add more or subtract some if you aren't happy with the fullness.

2. Cut the streamers down the center lengthwise to make the pom-pom strands thinner. If you want thicker strands, you do not need to cut the streamers in half lengthwise.

3. Fold the streamers in half so they are the proper length for your pom-pom. Bunch all of the streamers together to form a puffy pom-pom.

4. Tape the bunched ends of the streamers one end of a wooden dowel or unsharpened pencil. Overlap the streamers with the dowel or pencil by about 1/2 inch for a better hold.

Tips & Warnings

• Trim the ends of the streamers if your pom-pom is too long for your preference.

References

• Martha Stewart; Tissue Paper Pom-Poms; 2002