How to Choose Homecoming Mums, Corsages and Garters

A homecoming mum is a large mum corsage worn during homecoming celebrations in Texas and Oklahoma. Homecoming mums are decorated with lots of embellishments and long streamers. They're worn in the middle of the chest by women or as a garter on the arm by women and men alike. Homecoming mums can be given by friends, parents or family members. You can even make one for yourself.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Choose the flower. You can use fresh or silk mums. Silk lasts longer and is easier to find and work with. For a garter mum, choose one flower smaller than 6 inches. For a single, double or triple mum, choose flowers 6 to 8 inches in diameter.

2. Select streamers and ribbon. Use your school colors. High school seniors often add gold, white and silver ribbon.

3. Purchase enough ribbon to make at least two 18-inch length ribbons for a garter. For corsages, make a minimum of two ribbon styles, 18 inches to 60 inches in length. Check with your school to see if there's a limit to the length of the ribbon. If you use a plain backer, you will need additional ribbon to cover it.

4. Find trinkets and embellishments for your mum. Add plush animals to the mum, charms that correspond to your team's mascot or whistles, footballs and cheerleaders. Spell out your team's name or a spirit quote with glittery stick on letters on the ribbon. Dress up your mum with dried flowers, garland, glitter or battery operated lights.