STEP 1 - Gather Your Materials
Tools
- Scissors
- Tape (Any kind works. We used packing tape and artist tape).
Making Materials
- Colored papers (We used 5 different colors, 2 sheets of each)
- Sheer plastic we found from clothes packaging
That's it! It's a simple list, but you can add to the list if there's another material you would like to add to your pom-poms. Consider thin materials like paper or plastic with exciting textures that could make the pom-poms look more full.
STEP 2 - Cut your materials into strips
This step is pretty simple. Cut the paper and plastic sheets into strips, vertically so they're long. Start by cutting one sheet of each color. We recommend only cutting the strips for one pom-pom at a time so there won't be any confusion about how many strips go in each pom-pom.
We used, for one (1) pom-pom:
- 5 sheets of paper of different colors
- 2 plastic packaging bags
STEP 3 - Bind your strips into clusters
We stacked the strips into 5 small clusters, arranging the colors so that no two strips of the same color are next to each other. To bind a cluster, fold the bunch about half an inch, fold it over a second time, then tightly tape the folded over section.
Tape these 5 clusters into a full pom-pom! Try to tape them in different directions to look more full and dynamic when you wave them around. What other materials could you use to make a handle for your pom-pom? What materials could give fullness or wiggle to your pom-pom?
STEP 4 - Make the second pom-pom repeating the same steps
Pom-poms are more fun when you have a pair!
STEP 5 - Test your pom-poms, show your PRIDE!
How strong are your pom-poms? Are they staying intact as you wave them around? Have fun and dance around with them while listening to your favorite songs! These pom-poms are a product of your confidence and skills. Take pride in that. Use them to celebrate you!
ADULT HELPERS
Young makers will mostly need help organizing their strips of paper and staying motivated to do repetitive steps. Guide them as they go!
For any tips on how to use specific tools safely, visit our Youtube library for Tiny Techniques.
RESOURCES
Visit the Techniques tab in reDiscover Center's Pedagogy Resources for more activity guides, access our Tiny Techniques videos, and get tips for working safely and efficiently with tools.
Once you have finished your pom-poms, share them with friends and family. Maybe you can inspire others to make pom-poms and show their Pride. If you want to share a picture on social media, make sure to tag @reDiscoverCtr. We love to see what you make!
