Is Making Your Own Pom Pom Garland Actually Worth It?
Pom pom garlands are one of those party decorations that look expensive but can be surprisingly affordable to make at home. A standard store-bought pom pom garland at a party supply store runs anywhere from $12 to $25 depending on length and fluffiness. The DIY version requires yarn, twine, and a little patience.
The key variable is how many pom poms you get from a single skein of yarn. A typical worsted-weight skein costs $4–$8 and yields roughly 8–15 pom poms at the 2.5-inch size, depending on how tight you wrap and the exact size. Bulkier yarn and larger pom poms eat through yardage faster, while fine or sport-weight yarn stretches further.
What Goes Into the DIY Cost
- Yarn — the biggest cost driver. Budget yarn from a craft store runs $3–$5 per skein; premium yarn (metallic, chunky, pastel) can hit $10–$15.
- Twine or ribbon — a spool of jute twine for $3–$5 typically strings five or more garlands.
- Pom pom maker (one-time cost) — a plastic pom pom maker set costs $5–$12 and lasts for dozens of projects.
When DIY Wins
DIY consistently beats store prices when you're making more than two or three garlands. A single garland might cost you $4–$8 in materials, while the same garland at a party store is $15–$20. The break-even becomes even more obvious when you compare quality — handmade pom poms are fuller and more customizable in color than mass-produced alternatives.
Tips for Keeping DIY Costs Low
Buy yarn on sale or with a 40% off coupon from craft stores. Reuse twine across multiple garlands by keeping lengths consistent. A pom pom maker pays for itself after the first or second garland.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many pom poms do I need per garland?
A typical 6-foot garland uses 15–25 pom poms spaced 3–4 inches apart. For a fuller, denser look, aim for 20–30 poms. Longer garlands (8–10 feet) for backdrops or mantles may need 30–40 poms. You can adjust spacing to stretch your materials further without the garland looking sparse.
What yarn weight makes the best pom poms?
Worsted-weight yarn (weight 4) is the most popular choice — it's easy to find, affordable, and produces fluffy, well-defined pom poms. Bulky yarn (weight 5–6) makes oversized poms quickly but uses more yarn per pom. Lightweight or sport yarn works for delicate miniature poms but takes more wraps and effort.
Do I need a pom pom maker or can I use cardboard?
Cardboard works fine — cut two matching doughnut shapes from a cereal box, wrap yarn around them, and cut along the outer edge. A plastic pom pom maker ($5–$12 at craft stores) speeds up the process and produces more uniform poms, especially if you're making large quantities.
How long does it take to make a pom pom garland?
Expect about 3–5 minutes per pom pom once you're comfortable with the process. A 20-pom garland takes 60–90 minutes from start to finish, including trimming, fluffing, and stringing. Your first garland may take longer while you find your rhythm.
Can I reuse a pom pom garland after the party?
Yes — yarn pom pom garlands are durable and can be stored flat or loosely rolled in a bag for reuse. Avoid crushing them under heavy items, as compressed poms take time to re-fluff. Light spot-cleaning with a damp cloth removes most party grime. Many crafters keep garlands for years and reuse them across different events.