Cheerleading entails a lot of energy and vibrancy to get the crowd and the team going. But the display of color and liveliness does not end with the choreography or the costume; it also extends to the props. To add the extra oomph in cheerleading, having a flamboyant and dazzling set of cheerleading pompom is crucial. It should be eye-catching and should match the overall look you are trying to achieve.

Making a cheerleading pompom is easy. Although you can always buy pompoms through manufacturers, you can always do it by yourself or with the rest of your cheerleading squad. There’s even the option to make it into a bonding activity before the final day arrives. You’ll get more control over the pompoms that’s going to be used. In addition, you get to save yourself a lot of money too.

The first step in making a cheerleading pompom is to identify your squad or team colors. This will be your basis in buying the materials you need for your pompom. Some people choose to have a single, solid color for their pompom. Some go for mixed colored pompoms. Meanwhile, others go for the half-colored pompoms. Whatever you decide, make sure it will match the event you’re attending.

The next step is to choose what kind of material to use for your pompom. There are a number of options available when it comes to materials. You have the option to choose colored plastic or garbage bags.  Both materials will give your pompom the color it needs. For a more eye-catching pompom, go for metallic foil paper that you can buy in your local art and supplies store. Foil paper is also easier to cut, as the scissors tend to glide easily.

The first thing to do is roll out the foil paper or garbage bag and lay it flat on the surface.  Then, fold it lengthwise and make sure that the ends meet. The technique ensures that your pompom will come out perfect.

Afterwards, decide how long your handle will be. Mark the length on the folded part of your foil paper or garbage bag, also lengthwise. Then, position the paper in such a way that the unfolded edge is directly facing you. The paper should open upwards.

From that position, start cutting the foil up to the mark you’ve allotted for the handle.  Make sure not to go over the line. It isn’t a good idea to cut all the way through, only cut until the mark that was set. Cutting in small strips will give you a bulkier and fuller pompom, while big strips will give you a flatter one. Using a straight edged tool will help you cut straight lines so use a cutter instead of a scissor.

Do this with as many foil paper you want. Once you’ve reached your desired number, lay all the paper on top of another in one pile. Roll them and tape the uncut portion together.  This will serve as your handle. Add the necessary string or yarn if you want. And now you have your very own do-it-yourself cheerleading pompom!