Bringing exuberance and energetic movements to any routine, cheerleading pom poms are the perfect timeless accessory. In this tutorial, I will show you the process of making your very own cheerleading pom using inexpensive materials—specifically plastic table covers. Whether you’re making these for school, a cheerleading squad, or simply a fun pastime at home, this detailed guide will break down the process into simple steps. This project aims to be effortless and budget-friendly, while also giving you the option to customize it however you like. You will certainly gloat with pride after seeing your high-quality, homemade pom poms which would seem indistinguishable from the ones bought at the store. So get ready to stomp and pom with confidence and creativity!
What Materials Are Needed for DIY Pom Poms?
To create DIY cheerleading pom poms, you will need the following materials:
- Plastic tablecloths (in your preferred colors, typically 2-3 sheets for fullness)
- Scissors (sharp enough for cutting through layers of plastic)
- Ruler or tape measure (for precise cutting)
- Tape (duct tape or strong adhesive tape for securing the handle)
- Optional: Glitter or decorative tape (for extra customization).
These materials are cost-effective, easy to find, and perfect for creating vibrant and durable pom poms.
Choosing the Right Plastic Tablecloth
While purchasing plastic tablecloths for DIY pom poms, one has to pay attention to their thickness, color, and quality. Preferred tablecloths are from medium-weight plastic as they are easy to cut, layer, and durable. Extremely flimsy tablecloths can rip too easily while thicker options are difficult to work with. When it comes to tablecloth colors, go for the ones that work in line with your theme or team spirit, as more vibrant colors greatly bring together a design. Furthermore, check if the tablecloths are consistently dyed throughout because inconsistency will hinder the quality of the pom pom’s color. Many standard party tablecloths from local stores or online retailers fit this throttle, making it easy and inexpensive to use for this project.
Essential Tools: Scissors and More
Tools need to be in check to create unparalleled pom poms from tablecloths. Wearing the best one’s surface area losing sharpened scissors, particularly long-bladed ones, is best for cleaving through several layers of tablecloths at once. The downside to trying to cut and dull-blade scissors is tearing and fraying the resulting pom poms. With plenteous time on hand or rotary cutters, smoother and quicker cuts can be achieved when dealing with bulk pom poms.
Moreover, thick rulers or measuring tape is paramount when clipping strips with designated lengths and widths for a consistent base. Strong rubber bands, twist ties, or even zip ties can be used to secure the layers together during assembly. Sturdy cutting mats are also great for maintaining a surface free from details and serve as a boundary for guided cuts. Purchasing these pieces of equipment will make the creation processes far more fluid and seamless while securing a long-lasting and vibrant end product.
Other Materials: Handles and Decorative Elements
When selecting handles for your pom poms, durability and function should be prioritized. Wooden dowels, plastic rods, or sturdy cardboard can serve as effective handles based on availability and intended use. Wrapping the handles in decorative tape or fabric not only enhances grip but also adds aesthetic value. Lightweight materials are recommended for ease of use, especially if the pom poms are intended for cheering or repetitive movement.
For decorative elements, consider using metallic ribbons, glitter spray, or adhesive gemstones to add flair. Coordinating colors and patterns with the theme of the event or purpose helps achieve a cohesive appearance. Hot glue guns and durable adhesives are essential tools for securely attaching decorative components. Integrating lightweight yet textured materials such as tulle or crepe paper can add volume and dimensionality to the pom poms, providing a more professional and eye-catching finish.
How to Make Cheerleader Pom Poms Step-by-Step?
- Gather Materials
Collect the necessary supplies, including plastic tablecloths or tissue paper for the pom strands, scissors, durable handles (wooden dowels or plastic rods), and adhesive tools like hot glue guns or tape.
- Cut the Strands
Evenly cut the chosen material into strips of equal width. Standard widths typically range from 1/2 to 1 inch, depending on the desired fullness.
- Bundle and Secure Strands
Arrange the strips into a bundle, ensuring they remain evenly aligned. Secure the center with a sturdy material like zip ties, strong tape, or a tightly wound cord.
- Attach the Handle
Affix the handle to the secured center of the bundle using hot glue or durable tape. Ensure the handle is firmly attached to prevent detachment during use.
- Fluff the Strands
Spread and separate the strips to create a full and voluminous appearance. Trim any uneven edges for a polished finish.
- Add Decorations
Incorporate optional decorative elements such as metallic ribbons, glitter, or adhesive gemstones to match the theme or enhance visual appeal.
Preparing Your Tablecloth
To begin, select a lightweight plastic tablecloth, preferably in colors that match your theme or event. Unfold the tablecloth completely and straighten out any creases. Using sharp scissors, cut the tablecloth into equal strips, approximately 1-2 inches wide, ensuring the length of the strips suits the desired size of the pom poms. For optimal results, keep the strips consistent in width to create a uniform and professional look. If multiple colors are being used, layer the tablecloth colors alternately to add a visually dynamic effect.
Once the strips are prepared, stack them neatly into a pile. Align all the strips at one end to keep the assembly smooth and manageable. This preparation step is critical for creating pom poms with even distribution and balanced volume, ensuring both durability and aesthetic appeal.
Creating the Pom Pom Strips
After preparing the tablecloth strips, follow these steps to transform them into pom pom strips. Begin by securing the aligned strips at their center using a strong rubber band or a piece of string. Wrap it tightly to hold the strips firmly in place, ensuring they do not shift during the process. Next, fold the bundle of strips in half at the secured center point to create the base of your pom pom. While holding the base firmly, begin fluffing and separating the strips outward to give the pom pom its characteristic volume and fullness. For a professional finish, trim any uneven edges to achieve uniformity. This method ensures durable and visually appealing pom poms suitable for any event or performance.
Assembling the Cheerleading Pom
To assemble the cheerleading pom, begin by attaching the pom pom strips to a secure handle or grip. Common materials for handles include dowels, plastic tubing, or pre-made handles available from craft supply stores. Using strong, durable adhesive or tightly wound tape, affix the center of the folded pom strips to the handle, ensuring the connection is robust enough to withstand dynamic movement during use. Rotate the handle as you secure the strips, distributing them evenly around the base for consistent fullness. Once the pom pom strips are securely attached, fluff out the strips to ensure optimal volume and symmetry. If needed, trim the edges slightly to create a professional and polished appearance. By following these steps, you create a fully assembled cheerleading pom that is functional, visually appealing, and ready for performance.
How Can You Customize Your Cheer Pom Poms?
Various methods can be applied to customize cheer pom poms, enabling teams to portray their individuality. First, select metallic, holographic, or basic plastic strips in team colors to match the desired aesthetic. For additional beauty, incorporate ribbons or glitter strips which add dimensional texture or visual appeal. The strands can also be made wider or thinner depending on the performance requirements. Shorter strands can provide a tighter, more energetic look while longer strands grant dramatic, flowing movements. Further personalization can come from decals, initials, or mascots branded on the handle. These considerations allow for the crafting of cheer pom poms that are unique and well-tailored to the team’s presentation.
Using Different Colors and Patterns
Choosing the right colors and patterns for cheer pom poms is important for their overall aesthetics during a performance. For team branding compliance, primary team colors may be used, or a gradient effect that combines several colors can be utilized. Metallic materials, as well as holographic materials, can enhance the reflection of light, thus making movements more visible during stage or stadium lighting. The pom poms can also have additional touches and movements with patterns like stripes, swirls, or even polka dots which allows for a more entertaining visual experience. Another option is color blocking where distinct sections are dyed or crafted in contrasting bold colors for a stronger statement. By selecting the focal mix of colors and patterns, cheer pom poms can be used as an extension of team spirit and presentation.
Adding Foil for Extra Sparkle
Incorporating foil into cheer pom poms enhances their aesthetic value by giving them a glittering, reflective look. Strands of foil are usually made from Mylar and other metallic materials, which reflect and bounce off light, making performances more energetic and visually appealing both indoors and outdoors. Foil can be incorporated in different forms such as Blended foil strands with traditional tissues, Layered foil designs for more depth, and Textured full metallic pom poms. The use of foil also improves the life span of the pom pom since these materials do not get damaged easily, thus, accommodating rough usage during high-impact performances. Teams can choose from an array of foil colors and finishes; matte, holographic, or glossy to completely alter the pom poms to achieve their desired style and further enhance visual impact while performing.
Personalizing with Team Colors
Customizing pom poms to team colors is an important part of fostering team identity and unity. This can be done by taking strands of tissue, plastic, or foil in specific shades of the team’s color, often in a combination of different shades or primary and secondary team colors. Advanced methods of production enable accurate matching of a team’s brand colors to pom pom production. Also, some vendors allow logos, mascots, or slogans to be imprinted on materials, thus increasing the level of customization. Different materials and layouts such as alternation and layering can have striking visual effects while conforming to the design style and energy of the team. Proper customization enhances team spirit and makes performers instantly recognizable in a competitive setting so they can stand out.
Why Use Plastic Tablecloths for Pom-Poms?
Pom-pom constructions use plastic tablecloths, which are easily accessible, durable, and inexpensive. Furthermore, It is simple to cut these tablecloths into strips, which aids in the assembly. While performing, the sturdy composition of the plastic tablecloth ensures that the pom-poms maintain their shape. The plastic tablecloth also comes in white and is easily cut into strips. Also, its glossy finish enhances its aesthetic quality which makes it a suitable and economical choice for bespoke pom-pom designs.
Benefits of Plastic Material
Plastic materials are economically favorable as they are durable, versatile, and lightweight making them ideal for crafting pom-poms. The ease of handling delivered by lightweight materials is essential for performing routines that require agility. Plastic’s flexible nature allows for effortless cutting and shaping into strips, further facilitating simple assembly. Additionally, the material’s resistance to wear and tear makes it perfect for repeated use in more demanding environments. Glossy finishes on plastic tablecloths amplify the visual appeal by reflecting light which enhances the vibrancy of performances. Along with aesthetics, their availability in numerous colors and patterns makes them ideal for various team designs and branding needs. Overall, the flexible properties of plastic materials make them a great option for crafting high-quality pom-poms.
Cost-Effectiveness with Dollar Store Finds
Sourcing materials from dollar stores serves as a cost-efficient strategy without compromising on quality. Numerous dollar stores sell a great selection of plastic tablecloths that are pom-pom friendly. These tablecloths come in a range of colors and designs that are ideal for team branding while also being sturdy and pliable for crafting. Moreover, dollar stores typically have scissors, tape, and zip ties which makes them a convenient place to shop for most assembly tools. These dollar store resources allow teams to create pom-poms that are visually appealing and durable without going over budget considering the low cost of production.
Durability for Football Games and More
That is particularly true for cheerleaders, who have to make use of pom-poms constructed from plastic materials like dollar store tablecloths. These materials are incredibly durable and can take a lot of severe use at football games and similar occasions. The plastic material ensures that the pom-poms can be waved frequently, rained on, exposed to windy elements as well as handled over and over again without losing their beauty or tearing. Additionally, plastic tablecloths do not fray or fade over time, keeping them intact even when they are put through heavy use. Such durability makes them exceptionally economical when combined with performance requirements and polish for cheering teams in active use for long periods.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheerleading Pom Poms
1. How are cheerleading pom-poms made from plastic materials like tablecloths?
Cheerleading pom-poms are crafted by cutting plastic tablecloths into strips of desired length and width, bundling them together, and securing them at the base with tape or wire to form a grip. This process ensures a lightweight and durable pom-pom.
2. Why is plastic material preferred for making cheerleading pom-poms?
Plastic is preferred due to its durability, resistance to tearing, water resistance, and ability to maintain vibrant colors over time. These qualities make it ideal for frequent use in various weather conditions.
3. Can these pom-poms withstand outdoor elements?
Yes, pom-poms made from plastic tablecloths can endure rain, wind, and repeated handling without significant wear or damage, making them highly suitable for outdoor performances.
4. Do plastic cheerleading pom-poms fade over time?
Plastic pom-poms are highly resistant to fading, even with extended exposure to sunlight and constant use, ensuring long-lasting color vibrancy.
5. Are plastic tablecloth pom-poms cost-effective?
Absolutely. Plastic tablecloths are inexpensive, yet they offer high durability and a professional appearance, making them a budget-friendly option for cheerleading teams.
How Long Does Each Pom Pom Take to Make?
Depending on experience and size, one can expect to spend 20 to 30 minutes creating a cheerleading pom pom out of a plastic tablecloth. A novice, for instance, may take longer than expected especially when needing to cut and assemble the strips evenly. Other times may also be affected such as the time taken preparing materials, tying the handle on securely, and fluffing the pom pom to make it appear fuller. But with repetition comes mastery — the more one practices, the easier and faster the task becomes while maintaining professional quality work.
What Size Should Pom Poms Be?
Custom sizes can range from the standard seven, eight, and ten inches broad. 10-inch pom-poms, specifically, are suited for performances requiring high visibility and dramatic effect. Default pom-poms tend to measure anywhere between four to six inches for youth school teams and six to eight inches for high school and college teams. With such further variations, pom-poms can be made to suit the visual style of any routine. It can be used for all age groups – youth, high school, and even at a collegiate level. Such flexibility in the size of the cheerleading pom-pom gives it greater appeal as it can be tailored to suit the existing style and structure of the team.
Can I Use Other Materials Besides Plastic Tablecloths?
Yes, other materials can be used to make pom-poms depending on what effect is desired, the expected durability, and the funding available. Common alternatives include metallic foil which increases the sparkle and visibility for performances, and tissue paper which is light and easy to manipulate but is less durable than the aforementioned alternatives. Specialty craft materials such as mylar sheets or other synthetic films offer unique textures and finishes that other materials cannot provide. Fabric options like tulle or felt make excellent materials for reusable pom-poms because they have a softer look, more so than rigid styles, while still being sturdy. Pay attention to the routine’s visual requirements and wonder if weight, color variety, and texture materials will complement their needs. Ensure these materials can withstand repeated use during practice and performance.
References
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I make pom poms using plastic tablecloths?
A: To make pom poms using plastic tablecloths, you’ll need to cut the tablecloths into strips and then tie them together at the center. Fluff the strips to create a full, fluffy pom pom. This cheerleading pom pom-making tutorial is easy to follow and great for crafting enthusiasts.
Q: What materials do I need to start this DIY cheerleading pom poms craft?
A: You’ll need plastic tablecloths, scissors, and string or ribbon. These materials are inexpensive and readily available, making this craft both affordable and easy to make.
Q: Can I use tissue paper instead of plastic tablecloths for making cheer pom poms?
A: Yes, tissue paper can also be used to make cheer pom poms. However, plastic tablecloths are more durable and provide a fluffier appearance, which is ideal for professional cheer settings.
Q: How many pom poms can I make with one plastic tablecloth?
A: Typically, one standard-sized plastic tablecloth (54 x 108 inches) makes 2 pom poms. You can adjust the size of the pom poms by altering the dimensions of the strips you cut.
Q: Is there a video tutorial available for making these pom poms?
A: Yes, there are several video tutorials available online, including on platforms like TikTok. These can provide visual guidance and additional tips for making pom poms.
Q: How do I ensure my pom poms are fluffy and full?
A: After tying the strips at the center, be sure to fluff each strip individually. This will help create a fuller appearance, perfect for decoration or showing support for your favorite team.
Q: Can I customize the colors for my cheerleading pom poms?
A: Absolutely! You can choose plastic tablecloths in your squad’s colors or your favorite team colors to make customized pom poms that show your spirit.
Q: Are there any safety tips for working with scissors and plastic tablecloths?
A: Always use caution when handling scissors and ensure they are sharp enough to cut through the tablecloths cleanly. Keep the work area free of clutter to avoid accidents.
Q: Where can I find product reviews for the materials used in this craft?
A: Product reviews can often be found on retail websites where you purchase plastic tablecloths and other materials. They can provide insights into the quality and durability of the products.
