DIY Homecoming Mums: A Step-by-Step Guide to Show Your School Spirit

Homecoming mums are a Texas tradition unlike any other. These elaborate, personalized creations are worn by students (typically girls, but increasingly guys too!) during homecoming week, showcasing school pride and individual personality. While you can certainly purchase a mum, crafting your own adds a special touch and allows for complete customization. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of creating a memorable and impressive homecoming mum.

What is a Homecoming Mum?

For those unfamiliar, a homecoming mum is essentially a large, elaborate flower (traditionally a chrysanthemum, hence the name “mum”) adorned with ribbons, trinkets, bells, and other embellishments. They are a symbol of school spirit and are often given by dates or friends. The size and complexity of the mum can range from simple and sweet to extravagant and over-the-top.

Gathering Your Supplies

Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials. This will save you time and prevent frustration later on. Here’s a comprehensive list:

* **Base Flower:** A large chrysanthemum. Artificial mums are preferred for durability and reuse. You can find these at craft stores like Hobby Lobby, Michaels, or online retailers like Amazon.
* **Backing:** This provides the structure for your mum. Common options include:
* Cardboard Circle: Cut from a sturdy cardboard box.
* Felt Circle: Provides a softer, more professional look.
* Foam Board Circle: Lightweight and easy to work with.
* Pre-made Mum Backing: Available at craft stores in various sizes.
* **Ribbon:** This is where you can really showcase your school colors and personal style. Consider a variety of colors, widths, and textures. Popular options include:
* Satin Ribbon: Classic and elegant.
* Grosgrain Ribbon: Durable and textured.
* Printed Ribbon: With school logos, mascots, or themes.
* Glitter Ribbon: Adds sparkle and shine.
* Decorative Ribbon: Lace, tulle, or patterned ribbon.
* **Bells:** A must-have for any homecoming mum! Choose various sizes and colors.
* **Braids and Garland:** Add visual interest and texture. Options include:
* Ribbon Braids: Create your own braids using ribbon.
* Pre-made Braids: Available in various colors and styles.
* Tinsel Garland: Adds shimmer and shine.
* Beaded Garland: Adds texture and color.
* **Trinkets and Charms:** Personalize your mum with trinkets that represent the recipient’s interests and activities. Consider:
* School Mascot Charms
* Sport-Related Charms (e.g., football, basketball, cheerleading)
* Academic Charms (e.g., books, musical notes)
* Hobby Charms (e.g., dance, art, gaming)
* Monogram Letters
* Class Year Charms
* **Hot Glue Gun and Glue Sticks:** Essential for attaching all the components.
* **Scissors:** For cutting ribbon and other materials.
* **Ruler or Measuring Tape:** For ensuring even ribbon lengths.
* **Stapler:** For extra reinforcement (optional).
* **Hole Punch:** For attaching trinkets and charms.
* **Safety Pins:** For attaching the mum to clothing.
* **Optional Embellishments:**
* Feathers
* Sequins
* Rhinestones
* Personalized Name Ribbons
* LED Lights (battery-operated)
* Photos (laminated)
* **Craft Knife or Box Cutter:** For cutting cardboard or foam board (use with caution).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your supplies, let’s begin creating your homecoming mum!

**Step 1: Prepare the Backing**

* If you are using a pre-made mum backing, you can skip this step.
* If you are using cardboard, felt, or foam board, cut a circle to your desired size. A 6-8 inch diameter is a good starting point. You can make it bigger for a larger, more elaborate mum.
* If using cardboard, consider covering it with felt or wrapping it in ribbon for a more polished look. Secure the felt or ribbon with hot glue.

**Step 2: Attach the Mum**

* Apply a generous amount of hot glue to the back of the chrysanthemum.
* Center the mum on the backing and press firmly until the glue sets.
* Allow the glue to cool completely before proceeding.

**Step 3: Create the Ribbon Streamers**

* Cut your ribbon into various lengths. A good range is from 12 inches to 36 inches, depending on how long you want the streamers to be. Mix and match different colors, widths, and textures.
* Create loops or folds in the ribbon for added visual interest. You can create simple loops by folding the ribbon in half and gluing the ends together. Or you can create more complex folds like box pleats.
* Attach the ribbon streamers to the back of the mum backing using hot glue. Start with the longest ribbons and layer shorter ribbons on top. Arrange the ribbons so that they are evenly distributed around the mum.
* Consider adding a “waterfall” effect by staggering the lengths of the ribbons. This will create a more dynamic and visually appealing look.

**Step 4: Add Bells and Braids**

* Attach bells to the ribbon streamers using hot glue or by threading them onto the ribbon. Space the bells evenly throughout the streamers.
* Attach braids and garland to the back of the mum using hot glue. Position them strategically to add texture and visual interest. You can attach them horizontally or vertically, depending on the desired effect.

**Step 5: Incorporate Trinkets and Charms**

* Use a hole punch to create holes in the trinkets and charms if necessary.
* Attach the trinkets and charms to the ribbon streamers using jump rings or by threading them onto the ribbon. Distribute the trinkets and charms evenly throughout the streamers.
* Consider grouping trinkets and charms that are related to a specific theme or activity.

**Step 6: Personalize the Mum**

* Add personalized name ribbons with the recipient’s name, class year, or other special message.
* Incorporate photos of the recipient by laminating them and attaching them to the mum.
* Use paint pens or markers to add custom designs or messages to the ribbon streamers.
* Consider adding LED lights for a unique and eye-catching effect. Secure the battery pack to the back of the mum using hot glue or tape.

**Step 7: Finishing Touches**

* Inspect the mum carefully for any loose ends or gaps. Secure any loose items with hot glue.
* Trim any excess ribbon or string.
* Attach safety pins to the back of the mum for easy attachment to clothing.
* Allow the glue to cool completely before wearing the mum.

Tips and Tricks for a Stunning Mum

* **Plan Your Design:** Before you start gluing, sketch out your design or gather inspiration from online sources like Pinterest and Instagram. This will help you visualize the finished product and ensure that you have all the necessary materials.
* **Color Coordination:** Choose a color palette that complements your school colors and the recipient’s personal style. Consider using a combination of solid colors, patterns, and textures.
* **Layering is Key:** Don’t be afraid to layer different ribbons, braids, and trinkets to create depth and visual interest. Experiment with different combinations until you achieve the desired effect.
* **Less is More (Sometimes):** While it’s tempting to add everything you can think of, sometimes less is more. A well-designed mum with carefully chosen embellishments will be more impactful than an over-the-top mum that feels cluttered.
* **Use High-Quality Materials:** Invest in high-quality ribbons, embellishments, and glue to ensure that your mum lasts throughout homecoming week and beyond. Cheap materials may fall apart or fade over time.
* **Protect Your Work Surface:** Cover your work surface with newspaper or a drop cloth to protect it from glue and other messes.
* **Be Careful with Hot Glue:** Hot glue can cause burns, so use caution when working with it. Keep a bowl of ice water nearby in case you accidentally burn yourself.
* **Take Breaks:** Creating a homecoming mum can be a time-consuming process, so take breaks as needed to avoid fatigue and burnout.
* **Get Creative:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and materials to create a unique and personalized mum. The most important thing is to have fun and express your creativity.
* **Consider the Recipient:** Keep the recipient’s personality and interests in mind when designing the mum. Choose trinkets and embellishments that reflect their hobbies, activities, and passions.

Specific Ribbon Techniques

* **Curling Ribbon:** To curl ribbon, use scissors to gently scrape the ribbon. The more pressure you apply, the tighter the curl will be. Practice on a scrap piece of ribbon first to get the hang of it.
* **Crimping Ribbon:** To crimp ribbon, use a crimping tool or a pair of pliers to create small folds in the ribbon. This will add texture and dimension to the streamers.
* **Ribbon Roses:** Create ribbon roses by rolling a piece of ribbon into a spiral shape and securing it with hot glue. These can be added as accents to the mum.
* **Waterfall Effect:** To create a waterfall effect with the ribbon streamers, cut the ribbons into varying lengths and attach them to the back of the mum in a staggered pattern. The longest ribbons should be at the bottom, and the shortest ribbons should be at the top.
* **Box Pleats:** Cut your ribbon strip longer than the intended finished length. Fold one end back and crease a pleat. Continue to fold and crease pleats along the ribbon strip. Hot glue down each pleat as you move along the strip.

Adding Lights to Your Mum

Adding LED lights to your homecoming mum can make it truly stand out. Here’s how to do it:

1. **Choose Battery-Operated LED Lights:** Opt for battery-operated lights to avoid the hassle of cords and outlets. Fairy lights or small string lights work well.
2. **Plan the Placement:** Decide where you want the lights to be positioned on the mum. Consider weaving them through the ribbon streamers or outlining the perimeter of the mum.
3. **Secure the Lights:** Use hot glue or small pieces of tape to secure the lights to the mum. Be careful not to damage the lights or the wiring.
4. **Hide the Battery Pack:** Find a discreet place to attach the battery pack, such as behind the mum or inside a pocket made from ribbon. Secure it with hot glue or tape.

Mum Etiquette and Traditions

* **Who Wears Mums?** Traditionally, mums are worn by girls, but increasingly guys are wearing them too! Smaller versions for guys might be called garters.
* **When to Wear Mums:** Mums are typically worn throughout homecoming week, culminating on homecoming day itself.
* **Mum Exchange:** Mums are often exchanged between couples or friends as a symbol of affection and school spirit.
* **Size Matters:** The size of the mum can be a status symbol, with larger and more elaborate mums often seen as more impressive. However, it’s important to be mindful of the cost and effort involved.
* **School Rules:** Be aware of any school rules or guidelines regarding homecoming mums. Some schools may have restrictions on size, materials, or embellishments.

Troubleshooting

* **Ribbon Streamers Falling Off:** Ensure that you are using a generous amount of hot glue and that the glue is completely cooled before moving the mum. You can also reinforce the streamers with staples.
* **Trinkets and Charms Coming Loose:** Use strong jump rings or thread to attach the trinkets and charms to the ribbon streamers. Make sure the holes in the trinkets and charms are large enough to accommodate the jump rings or thread.
* **Glue Gun Clogging:** Clean your glue gun regularly to prevent clogging. Use a glue gun cleaning tool or a piece of wire to remove any debris from the nozzle.
* **Burned Fingers:** Be careful when working with hot glue. Keep a bowl of ice water nearby in case you accidentally burn yourself. Use a pair of tweezers or pliers to hold small objects while gluing.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Mum Techniques

* **Custom Stencils:** Create custom stencils using cardstock or acetate and use them to paint designs or messages onto the ribbon streamers.
* **Sublimation Printing:** Use sublimation printing to create custom ribbon with personalized designs or photos.
* **3D Printing:** 3D print custom trinkets and charms to add a unique and personalized touch to your mum.
* **Circuit Integration:** Incorporate simple circuits into your mum to create interactive elements such as flashing lights or sound effects.

Where to Find Inspiration

* **Pinterest:** Pinterest is a treasure trove of homecoming mum inspiration. Search for “homecoming mums” or “DIY mums” to find countless ideas and tutorials.
* **Instagram:** Instagram is another great source of inspiration. Follow accounts that specialize in homecoming mums to see the latest trends and designs.
* **Local Craft Stores:** Visit your local craft stores to see what materials and embellishments are available and to get ideas for your own mum.
* **Homecoming Mum Competitions:** Attend local homecoming mum competitions to see the work of other crafters and to get inspired.
* **Online Forums and Communities:** Join online forums and communities dedicated to homecoming mums to share ideas, ask questions, and get feedback from other crafters.

Making Mums a Family Affair

Creating homecoming mums can be a fun and rewarding activity for the whole family. Involve your kids in the process by letting them choose colors, trinkets, and embellishments. This is a great way to bond with your family and create lasting memories.

Caring for Your Mum

To keep your homecoming mum looking its best, follow these tips:

* **Store it Properly:** When not in use, store your mum in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
* **Avoid Moisture:** Keep your mum away from moisture to prevent mold and mildew.
* **Clean it Gently:** If your mum gets dirty, clean it gently with a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents.
* **Repair Damage:** Repair any damage to your mum as soon as possible to prevent it from getting worse.

Conclusion

Creating your own homecoming mum is a fun and rewarding way to show your school spirit and express your creativity. With a little planning and effort, you can create a unique and personalized mum that will be the envy of everyone at homecoming. So gather your supplies, unleash your creativity, and get ready to make a mum that you’ll be proud to wear!