How To Make Tissue Paper Pom Poms: 3 Different Ways

Learning how to make tissue paper pom poms is a great way to add fun and color to a party without breaking the bank. If you’ve ever checked the price on store-bought decorations, you know how expensive decorating for an event can be. In this guide, I will show you how easy it is to make these pom poms and fill your next event with color.

Don’t Buy Your Decorations – Go Ahead and Make Them

Tissue paper pom poms are perfect for birthdays, baby showers, or adding a little flair to your space. You can pick any colors you like to match your theme or mood. All you need are a few simple materials and some creativity, and you’ll have beautiful decorations in no time! Join me as I walk you through the steps to create these charming decorations that will make any occasion extra special.

Table of Contents

Materials and Tools Required

To make tissue paper pom poms, you will need colored tissue paper sheets from a craft store or online shop. You can pick colors that go with your event’s theme, like pastel for a baby shower or bright colors for a birthday party. Use 8 to 10 sheets of tissue paper for each pom pom to make it look full and fluffy.

You will also need scissors to trim the tissue paper into the desired size and shape. Make sure your scissors are sharp to make clean cuts without tearing the delicate tissue paper. You’ll need floral wire to secure the center of the pom pom tightly, and I recommend wire cutters to cut the floral wire. (Don’t use your good scissors!) A ruler will come in handy to make sure your tissue paper is square.

Materials and Tools:

• Tissue Paper
• Floral Wire
• Sharp Cutting Scissors
• Wire Cutters
• Ruler

How to Make

Evenly Layer Sheets

Start by layering several sheets of tissue paper. Lay the sheets evenly on top of each other so that the pom poms have a consistent and full appearance. For a standard-sized pom pom, you can use around 8-10 sheets of tissue paper, but the larger the pom pom, the more layers you will need.

The note above about using more layers of paper is where I see other tutorials go wrong. Ten sheets of tissue paper are not enough for a large paper pom-pom. Once the size goes beyond 12 inches, you need to add more layers. At 12 inches I added 5 more layers and at 18 inches, I added 10!

Layering the tissue paper properly is essential for achieving a well-rounded and fluffy look. If the layers are not even or if there are too few layers, the final product may appear sparse or misshapen.

In order for your pom poms to turn out round instead of oval, the sheets need to be square. Measure both sides and use scissors trim the stack into a square.

Fold the Stack

Once you’ve layered the sheets, it’s time to fold them accordion-style. This means folding the entire stack back and forth in a zig-zag pattern until you have one long, narrow strip of folded tissue paper. The width of each fold will determine the size and fullness of your finished pom poms.

I recommend folding the paper in one-inch increments. Don’t worry if your folds are not perfect. It doesn’t really matter if it’s exactly an inch; you just want to fan fold it all the way across and fasten it in the center (as shown in the photo below) with your floral wire.

When folding, make sure to crease each fold firmly so that when it comes time to fluff up the layers, they separate easily without tearing.

Trim the Edges

You can trim the edges any way you wish. Adding a pattern to the edges really gives the pom poms a floral look. I experimented and I liked the scalloped edge look the best as they look like big fluffy peonies in the end, but you can try anything!

Separate the Layers

Start separating your layers by gently pulling each layer toward the center. Go slow. The tissue paper tears very easily, so be patient (unlike me!) and keep going layer by layer pulling in toward the center. Do half of the layers toward one side and then flip it over and do the same for the backside.

If you tear your tissue paper, don’t worry about it. You likely won’t see it at all. If it is very noticeable, you can simply snip that torn piece out.

And there you have it, a beautiful tissue paper pom pom!

Expert Tips

• Small pom-poms require only ten layers of tissue paper, but the larger the pom-pom, the more layers of tissue paper are required. For 18-inch tissue paper sheets, I used 20 layers of tissue paper.
• If you don’t have floral or crafting wire, you can tie them off with string or fishing line.
• Try layering different shades of the same color for a multi-tone effect, or layer completely different colors for a rainbow look!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make tissue paper pom poms?

It typically takes around 3-5 minutes to create a single tissue paper pom pom, making it a quick and enjoyable DIY project.

What materials are required to make tissue paper pom poms?

You’ll need tissue paper in various colors, floral wire or string, scissors, wire cutters and a ruler.

Can I use different sizes of tissue paper to make the pom poms?

Yes, you can experiment with different sizes of tissue paper. Smaller squares will result in smaller pom poms while larger squares will yield bigger ones.

Are these pom poms suitable for outdoor decorations?

While they can be used outdoors, it’s best to keep them away from direct moisture as the tissue may become damaged if exposed to rain or excessive humidity.

Closing Thoughts

You’ve got all the tips and tricks to craft beautiful tissue paper pom poms. Now, it’s time to unleash your creativity and let your imagination run wild. Experiment with different colors, sizes, and hanging lengths to add a unique flair to any event or space. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes – that’s how the most stunning creations often come to life. Depending on the look you’re going for, you can fill a wall or a table display quickly. They make such an impact!

So, grab your tissue paper and start pom-pom-making! Whether for a party, home decor, or a thoughtful gift, these delightful decorations will surely bring joy and vibrance wherever they go. Get crafting and have a blast!

Materials

• 1 pack of tissue paper 
• Floral Wire

Tools

• Wire Cutters
• Scissors
• Ruler

Instructions

Stack 8-10 sheets of tissue paper. Measure and cut square.

Fold the stack in 1-inch increments to create a "Z" or accordion folded strip. Secure the center with floral wire.

Trim the ends of the strip with a half-circle to create a floral look.

Separate the layers by pinching and pulling towards the center. After separating half the layers, flip the pom pom and separate the other side.

Notes

• Small pom poms require only 10 layers of tissue paper, but the larger the pom-pom, the more layers of tissue paper required. For 18 inch tissue paper sheets I used 20 layers of tissue paper.
• If you don’t have floral or crafting wire, you can tie them off with string or fishing line.
• Try layering different shades of the same color for a multi-tone effect, or layer completely different colors for a rainbow look!
• If you tear your tissue paper, don’t worry about it. You likely won’t see it at all. If it is very noticeable, you can simply snip that torn piece out.

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on October 9, 2018, and was updated on January 29, 2024, for clarity and ease of use.

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Author: Laura Kennedy

Writer & Owner of Little Yellow Wheelbarrow

Laura is a highly skilled gardener and fervent flower enthusiast. Despite her playful battle with plant spacing guidelines, Laura’s work inspires gardeners to create thriving, beautiful spaces that reflect both creativity and sustainability. Share With Your Friends 1.8kPinterest80FacebookRedditWhatsAppMastodon1.9kSHARES