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School just began, and I’ve been looking for little ways to have fun with my kids beyond homework and routines. After we made a Tulip in a Heart Card together, I stumbled on the idea of a pom pom shooter and it instantly felt like the perfect next project.
The problem was simple: I wanted something playful that didn’t take hours to prep or cost anything fancy. This tutorial showed me how even a plain toilet paper roll and a handful of pom-poms could be transformed into a craft that sparks much laughter.
As I followed along the magic unfolded. I stretched a rubber band across one end of the tube, taped on a spoon for the launcher and gently loaded a bright pom-pom inside. The anticipation built as I pressed down and then pop! The pom-pom soared across the room sending my kids into fits of giggles.
The whole process was so simple but carried that mix of surprise and delight that makes DIY crafts so rewarding. Even the act of testing different sizes of pom-poms turned into a game of its own, like experimenting with homemade science.
By the end, we weren’t just holding a pom pom shooter we were holding hours of laughter wrapped in cardboard and fuzzy puffs. What started as a quick DIY idea became a way to connect and make ordinary materials feel extraordinary.
Now, whenever I need an easy activity with my kids I know this little launcher will deliver more than just pom-poms it delivers memories.
What You Will Need
You only need a handful of everyday craft supplies:
- Paper cup (with the bottom removed) or toilet paper tube
- 12-inch balloon
- Pom poms
- Duct tape
- Stickers or washi tape (Optional)
- Scissors
How to make Pom Pom Shooter
Step 1: Get your shooter base ready
If using a paper cup carefully cut or remove the bottom. A toilet paper tube skips this step.
This creates the barrel where the shooting action happens.
Step 2: Decorate the pom pom shooter ‘s body
Before making, cover your tube or cup with duct tape or beautiful stickers.
Step 3: Attach the balloon to you pomp pom shooter
Trim the tip off a 12-inch balloon and tie a knot at the other end and stretch the cut end over one end of your cup or tube with the knot centered over the opening. Finally Secure it firmly with duct tape.
Step 4: Load & Launch
Insert a pom pom into the open end. Pull back the balloon’s knot and release to launch the pom pom.
Step 5: Play & Explore STEM
Set targets or create distance challenges using a tape measure and Try launching cotton balls or mini marshmallows to vary results.
Understanding the Science
This shooter demonstrates Newton’s laws of motion and energy transfer:
- Potential Energy: Stretching the balloon stores elastic energy.
- Kinetic Energy: Releasing the balloon converts it to motion propelling the pom pom.
- Action & Reaction: Equal and opposite forces are demonstrated as the balloon pushes the pom pom out.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use duct tape: washi tape may not hold the balloon securely.
- Adult supervision is important when cutting balloons or cups.
- Target practice: Use indoor mats or trays to contain flying pom poms.
- Science extension: Compare distances by changing launch angle or pom pom size.
- Alternate versions: Try using a pool noodle instead cut into short sections for a kid-friendly handle.
FAQs about Pom Pom Shooters
What age group is this craft best for?
Pom Pom Shooters are perfect for kids ages 5 and up.
Can I use something other than pom poms?
Yes, cotton balls or even crumpled paper balls work well. Just avoid anything hard or sharp.
Do I need to use a paper cup?
Not at all. A toilet paper roll or even a pool noodle section works just as well for the base.
How do I make the shooter stronger?
Use duct tape to secure the balloon tightly and pull the balloon knot back further for more power.
Will it make a mess indoors?
Not really. Pom poms are soft and safe and you can keep the play area tidy by setting up a basket or box target.
Can kids decorate the shooter?
Definitely, with washi tape your pom pom shooter will be extra unique.
Conclusion
You’ve just learned how to build a super-fun Pom Pom Shooter a quick DIY toy that combines creativity and play. Whether you’re hosting a craft party or exploring STEM in the classroom this launcher brings energy and learning all in one toy.
