So I've decided to do a series involving some Martha Stewart insider trading of a different ilk. The kind that won't put any of us in the slammer. Arguably, Martha is the undisputed "Suzie homemaker" who can entertain the pants off of anyone with her impeccable taste and her (or her team's) undying commitment to pushing the home-making and hosting envelope. With this said, in this series I will highlight some of the great ideas that Martha has shared with us both on her television show and then on her website. I'll be sharing some "trade secrets" as it were.

The first installation focuses on a simple but beautiful DIY project revolving around tissue paper, floral wire, fishing line and some sharp scissors! Really that's all it takes and I'm confident almost anyone can do a great job. The picture above shows the finished craft favorite; festive pom-poms. The following is a step by step look, as demonstrated on the Martha Stewart website, to create the colorful "poofs" to suspend gayly at your next party or gathering.

What you will need:

  • Several sheets of colorful tissue paper that matches the color scheme of your party.
  • Scissors (sharp)
  • Floral wire (white works best)
  • Fishing line (or any clear wire for suspension)


Step 1. Stack 8 sheets of the same color tissue paper together. 20" X 30" is one possible size for your sheets. You can make size them bigger or smaller depending on the size of the pom-poms you want to achieve. Fold these sheets tightly and smoothly in 1 1/2" pleats (accordion style).




Step 2. Fold an 18 inch piece of floral wire in half and then towards the middle of the sheets, secure the tissue paper within the folded wire by twisting to a close. The edges of the paper can then be shaped however you may wish, either round or pointed.



Step 3. Start "fanning out" the paper, pulling the sheets out one by one to the point where it becomes spherical and the pom-pom look is achieved! This might take a few trial runs before its perfect but the end result is so pretty!!



Step 4. For suspension, cut a length of fishing wire/clear wire that is desirable, and tie it onto the floral wire used to secure the sheets of paper. Voila!! Beautiful poofy puffs for your party! :) An instant crowd pleaser!



Party Idea: Hang these pom-poms strategically above a dinner table, dessert display table, gift table or just randomly throughout a room in clusters to immediately brighten up any party space! The options are endless. Just use your creativity and make your space the best it can be!