Vintage Scrapping

Understanding the Mum Business and what it means for the Community

 

Hello my friends!

 

I will try to keep this post short but over the past few years there seems to have been more shaming of the Mum tradition and pushing students towards forgoing the almost 100 year tradition and donating funds.  This effects me as a Mum Small Business Owner directly so I wanted to share my take on this and share some of my experiences over the past few years with Students.

 

I want to start by explaining this #1 MOST IMPORTANT FACT:  All Homecoming Mum Makers are local small business owners.   What does this mean for you?  Small businesses help keep the American economy growing and provide income and taxes paid in your local area.  When you buy from a small business, you are not supporting Multi Million dollar corporations, you are in fact supporting (as in my case) local moms put food on the table for their children and pay for extracurricular activities for their kids.  It provides income for local families who are paying state and local taxes where it goes back into the community.  Also as in my case I have to hire two to three employees every year to help.  One who has worked with me for years uses the money to save up for Christmas every year and help pay her sons day care tuition.  Another used hers to help pay for her college tuition.  

 

Now I must say I am a huge advocate for Charity.   I personally work hours every year with a local charity and donate a set amount of money every month to 3 other charities of my choice.  I will NEVER say that donating is not a wonderful idea.   Where the problem with the Mums has come in is from the mum shaming.   Every year I have students come to me saying they want their mum but are getting a smaller one because they are made to feel badly because they wanted a mum.   Most of these kids donate money in addition to getting their mum.  This is what is wrong.  

 

Here are some bullet points of what I would like people to please understand:

• Boycotting Mums hurts local small business owners.  Not multi million dollar corporations.   So you take away from your community.  The Mum wholesalers are actually located in Texas and Oklahoma as well.
• It does not need to be a binary choice.  Students should be able to enjoy the mum tradition without feeling guilty.  It is possible to both donate AND still participate in the Mum Tradition.
• Why not donate year round?  There have been many people who do not understand the tradition try to use it as a platform of frivolous spending that could be better suited elsewhere.  Let me stop everyone RIGHT THERE.   We are ALL guilty of frivolous spending.  Why attack a long standing tradition only?  Every year I see parents spending $500 to $1000 on a prom dress.   Tuxedo rentals.  Limo Rentals.  If you are so concerned with frivolous spending then why not have a jeans and t shirt prom and donate the funds to charity.  This idea is totally taboo because prom has long been considered a right of passage so to speak for seniors everywhere.  Well here we take our homecoming mums just as serious.  Or how many of us pay hundreds for handbags and shoes?  The list can go on and on.  I will tell you that most girls keep their mums for many years hanging them on display on their bedroom walls.  These are cherished and loved memories you are creating for many people.   I still remember EVERY mum I had over 25 years ago!!
• The Mum tradition has been around for almost 100 years.   Some people love it and some people hate it.   Regardless of how you feel it is a long standing tradition and not all traditions are loved by everyone (i.e. Green Bay fans wearing cheese on their head?? lol!) but PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE just respect that it IS a tradition and don't hate on it.   Telling someone their traditions are stupid and ridiculous is both rude and inconsiderate.   We all come from places that have traditions you may not understand - but just appreciate it for being a tradition valued by many. No one will make you participate if you don't want to - that is always a personal choice - but don't shame people for loving a tradition that has been around longer than any of us have been :)

 

I hope this post doesn't offend anyone it wasn't meant to target anyone in particular.   For people who do not like the mum tradition - HEY THAT IS OK TOO!!! We are all entitled to our own opinions!  The point of this post was just to gain some perspective from someone who does love the tradition and wants to see it kept alive.  Its part of our culture here.   It doesn't matter how big or small a mum is - it is just about our long standing tradition.

 

BEWARE OF HOMECOMING MUM FRAUDS!!!

Hello my friends! 

 

I know it has been a long time since I have posted but finally I am sitting down and taking the time to write this post.  As most of you know over the years I was the first to make free tutorials and put them online.  Reason being I simply wanted to help others who wanted to learn the craft or make something amazing for their child.   Homecoming Mums are a fun and crazy tradition and should be enjoyable and I wanted to make the process of either making one or ordering one easier on parents everywhere :)

 

Now for the frauds.  I tend to be the one who speaks up in defense of others or when an injustice is being done and nothing upsets me more than seeing these people take advantage of consumers.  Every year I see these people just "pop up" overnight on Craigslist or Facebook, sometimes even Etsy or a website!  They use other mum makers photos, never original photos of their own work and solicit mum business at deeply discounted prices.   The old piece of advice here is 100% true:  if the deal seems too good to be true then it probably is.

 

 

How to spot some frauds:

• Look for watermarked photos.  Somewhere on some of their photos if you see a business name or logo that is NOT THEIRS then they are illegally using digital copyrighted photos of another persons work.  Another way to spot whether they are using another makers photos is look at their "examples" do they have a similar style?  Or are they all over the place?  I will post a pic below as an example.  Most mum makers have a style that you will find in their work that big or small, you can tell it was made by the same person.  Please look at my website MelzMumz.com and you will see how my "style" is reflected in all of my mums.
• Not in business for long.   Its a new Facebook page or Etsy listing.   Craigslist ads are almost always fly by night frauds UNLESS they have a link in their ad to their website or Facebook page which shows the legitimacy of their business.
• They tell you they can make an exact replica of someone else's work.   Most legitimate mum makers will tell you they can not duplicate exactly but will make something similar with their own style on it.  No one but the original mum maker can actually "duplicate" a mum because they and the owner of said mum are only people who know everything on it.
• Extremely low prices.   This is the biggest indicator.  When they are advertising Mums for $20 - be aware of what $20 gets you.   Go to a retail store and look at the price of ribbon alone.   It is not possible to make a full length custom mum for $20.   
• Ask EXACTLY what is included on the mum.  If they want to say it is only $50 and show you a photo of something that runs $150 everywhere else then you will not be getting a mum like the $150 one.   I have proof of this too!!

 

First here is a photo from a good friend and fellow Mum Maker Kisha Crooks.  A fraudulent mum maker was using Kisha's photo illegally to solicit business.   A customer of hers saw it and knew this was a mum Kisha had made however the lady was offering it at half the price!   So this customer wanted to see what you would actually get and she ordered one.   Remember the picture on the left is what the fraud was using (Kisha's mum) and the mum on the right is what the customer received from this fraud.   When I said if the price is too good to be true then it usually is. 

Now here is another example of a mum fraud.   This was just found last evening.   A lady used 4 different mum makers photos to advertise on Etsy and Facebook!  Not one photo was actually hers.  If you look at the mums none of them resemble each other.  Each mum used a different style of loops on back.   One mum used curling ribbon to hang down.   I know this can be tricky but it is one reason it is better to stay with someone who has been in business at least a couple of years and can provide you with many photos of their own work.

 

I also will be doing a post shortly to explain some of the costs of homecoming mum making.   I hope this helps any possible MUMTATROPHIES from happening to unsuspecting customers.  As always please feel free to contact me directly if you have any questions!   Please visit my website melzmumz.com for Custom Mums, Mum Supplies and Tutorials!   Happy Mum Making!!

 

Melissa

 

 

Inspiration for Mum Kits: TIME & MONEY!!!!

So I had to make a quick post to show this!   I went to the local craft store a few weeks ago roaming around and they had their homecoming stuff out and I thought "well why not check it out!"

 

Well I'm glad I did.  I know that the cost of materials has greatly increased.  I can honestly tell you that most suppliers have gone up anywhere from 15% to 30% on their wholesale prices over the past couple of years.  HOWEVER - I could NOT believe the prices in the store!

 

 

No wonder so many people complain about the high cost of making homecoming mums!  Well, I took my time and started to go through and pick out all the basic items needed to make a single homecoming mum WOW!  I couldn't believe what it added up to!  Not to mention, you have to buy packs of some things (like pipe cleaner or jingle bells) and you don't need a whole pack (that just forces you to spend more money).  Oh........yeah, it's a store, of course they want you to spend more money than you need to.

 

That was when I decided I wanted to start making mum kits.  I know so many enjoy making their own mums but dread fighting the crowd during homecoming mum season and are tired of buying so much more than they need.  Not to mention the multiple trips to different stores because of inventory (every year they run out of something - flowers, bears, backers, etc).  For those of you who have shopped during mum season you know what I'm talking about.  Standing in line waiting your turn to cut some ribbon only to have someone jump up in front of you!  Or having to look "around" other people trying to see what trinkets are on the wall.  AND don't forget the multiple trips to the store!  THAT'S RIGHT!! Every year I hear people over and over say how many times they have had to go back to the store because they forgot the backers or forgot the solid ribbon, etc. 

I sat down and made a mum from start to finish to figure each piece needed to create a really nice mum - not one of those small dinky ones you see hanging in the craft store - a more substantial size mum with sufficient ribbon and items.  And that is what is in the mum kit!!

If you are curious as to the price difference from the local craft store, here was my break down after I went "shopping":

 

Single Mum

• 7" White Flower $6.99
• 2 Pack of 6" Round Backers $1.49 (had to buy 2)
• 1 Military Braid $8.99
• 3pk Cowbells $2.99
• 2 Jingle Bells had to buy a whole bag for $5
• 3 Large Trinkets $1 each
• 3 Medium Trinkets $1.49 for a 2 pack
• 4 Small Trinkets $1.49 for a 3 pack
• Class Star $1.29 for a 2 pack
• 20 yards #16 Ribbon $12
• 12 yards #9 Ribbon $6
• 4 yards #5 Ribbon $2
• 2 yards #3 Ribbon $1
• Garland  $5.99 for 9 feet
• Beads $1.99 for 9 feet
• 1 yard Honeycomb Ribbon $1.50
• 1 yard Superlane Ribbon $1.50
• 1 yard Ice Crunch Ribbon $1.00
• 2 yards Metallic Mylar #9 Ribbon $2
• 2 yards Metallic Mylar #5 Ribbon $2
• 3 Printed Ribbons $4
• 1 Printed Class Ribbon $1.40
• Roll of Curling Ribbon $1.99
• Homecoming Stickers $2.49
• Stickers For Name $.49 per letter
• 1 Yard Satin Ribbon for Neck $1
• Bow  $1.49
• Pipe Cleaner  $1.99 (for 20)
• TOTAL  $93.44

 

WOW!!! I couldn't believe the price!  Even with a 40% off 1 item coupon and a 10% off Homecoming items coupon, it was still much higher than a kit!!  The average was $30 more (using coupons) and could go higher!

PLUS the kits come with step by step picture instructions!  You won't find that in the store!! We do also offer additional items to buy to make your mum even bigger and fuller! Save time and money and buy a kit - MUCH EASIER!!

 

NOW FOR FREE - DOWNLOAD OUR STEP BY STEP PICTURE TUTORIAL FOR SINGLE HOMECOMING MUM, DOUBLE HOMECOMING MUM, TRIPLE HOMECOMING MUM & HOMECOMING GARTER!  Located at our website MelzMumz.com Make Your Own Mum Kit.  Scroll to very bottom of page and you will see the FREE printable instructions!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deluxe Make your Own Custom Mum Kit!

SAVE TIME AND SAVE MONEY!!

 

We have made an easier way of buying your homecoming mum supplies:

 DO - IT - YOURSELF MUM KITS. 

These kits are a much easier and economical way to get everything you need to make a Homecoming Mum or Garter!

 

• No fighting your way through the homecoming isles at the local craft store trying to grab pieces you need (if you have experienced this - you KNOW WHAT I MEAN!)
• No multiple trips to the craft store to pick up items you forgot
• No multiple craft stores to visit trying to find all the supplies you need! (Because they ALWAYS run out of something that is a necessity!)
• MUCH CHEAPER than buying these individual supplies at the craft store (I compared prices with two difference local stores and these kits easily save you anywhere from $20 to $35!)
• No guessing - this has EVERYTHING you need to make an AWESOME Homecoming Mum or Garter! Most kits only offer the bare bones basics - these kits have more ribbon, trinkets and extras that most don't offer!!  You won't be making a rinky dink little mum - these are more substantial (just look at photos below!) than any off the shelf ones at the local stores!
•  More Variety!   Most trinkets come 2 to a pack at the store forcing you to buy more than you need.  This way you get a better mix of items!  Only buying what you NEED!
• Customizable - need more ribbon to make a braid?  No problem - add it on!  Or need a band theme?  Add it on!!  These are called Boosters to personalize your mum or garter!
• Mailed straight to your front door!
• All solid acetate ribbon is in continuous yardage per color so YOU decide the lenth you want the streamers - no wasting ribbon!
• STEP BY STEP PICTURE TUTORIALS INCLUDED!!!!! 

There are 4 kits:

1. Single Homecoming Mum Kit 
   
2. Double Homecoming Mum Kit 
   
3. Triple Homecoming Mum Kit 
   
4. Single Homecoming Garter Kit

BUY ONLINE AT: www.MelzMumz.com

NOW AVAILABLE FOR FREE - PRINTABLE INSTRUCTIONS FOR SINGLE, DOUBLE, TRIPLE HOMECOMING MUMS AND GARTERS!!  Go to Melz Make Your Own Mum Kit, and you will find printable instructions there for free!!

 

Here are the details of each Kit with pictures of the kit and pictures of a mum made ONLY WITH THE ITEMS INCLUDED IN KIT followed by details of Extras Boosters you can add on.  I wanted to show just how much stuff you get in these and just how detailed of a mum you can make with what is in the box!  

Single Homecoming Mum Kit

 

MelzMumz.com Single Homecoming Mum Kit

Single Homecoming Mum made with MelzMumz.com Single Homecoming Mum Kit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Single Homecoming Mum Kit $Includes:

• One - 6.5" Flower (or you can upgrade to the 7.25" 21 Layer flower)
  
• Four - 6" Round Backers (you will use 3 for making the mum and 1 extra for just in case!)
• Piece of Pipe Cleaner to Attach Flower
• 1.5 yards Satin Ribbon to tie around neck
• One - 36" Military Braid
• One - 3/8" Pull Bow (for end of braid)
• 2 Jinglebells
• One - 1" Cowbell (for end of braid)
• 3 Large Trinkets
• 3 Medium Trinkets
• 4 Small Trinkets
• 1 Class Star
• 20 yards #16 Satin Acetate (2" wide ribbon) in school colors (for mum top, streamers and homecoming loop)
• 12 yards #9 Satin Acetate (1.25" wide ribbon) in school colors (for mum top, streamers and homecoming loop)
• 4  yards #5 Satin Acetate (7/8" wide) in school colors (for mum top)
• 2  yards #3 Satin Acetate (3/8" wide) in school colors  (for mum top)
• 2 yards #5 Metallic Mylar
• 2 yards #9 Metallic Mylar
• 1 strand Garland
• 1 strand Beads
• One 36" Honeycomb Streamer
• One 36" Superlane Streamer
• One 36" Ice Crunch Streamer
• Three 36" #9 Printed Ribbons
• One 36" Class Ribbon (Freshman, Sophomore etc)
• 5 yards curling ribbon (to hang or tie trinkets on with)
• HOMECOMING 1.25" Block Letter Stickers
• Stickers for up to 2 Names
• PRINTED TUTORIAL - STEP BY STEP WITH PICTURES!

 

Double Homecoming Mum Kit

 

MelzMumz.com Double Homecoming Mum Kit

Double Homecoming Mum made with www.melzmumz.com Double Homecoming Mum Kit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Double Homecoming Mum Kit Includes:

• Two - 6 1/2" Flowers (or you can upgrade to the 7.25" 21 Layer Flower)
  
• Four - Oval Backers (you will use 3 for making the mum and 1 extra for just in case!)
• Two pieces of Pipe Cleaner to Attach Flower
• 1.5 yards Satin Ribbon to Tie around Neck
• One - 36" Military Braid
• One - 3/8" Pull Bow (for end of braid)
• Two Jinglebells
• One - 1" Cowbell (for end of braid)
• 3 Large Trinkets
• 3 Medium Trinkets
• 4 Small Trinkets
• 1 Class Star
• 20 yards #16 Satin Acetate (2" wide ribbon) in school colors (for mum top, streamers and homecoming loop)
• 12 yards #9 Satin Acetate (1.25" wide ribbon) in school colors (for mum top, streamers and homecoming loop)
• 4  yards #5 Satin Acetate (7/8" wide) in school colors (for mum top)
• 2  yards #3 Satin Acetate (3/8" wide) in school colors  (for mum top)
• 2 yards #5 Metallic Mylar
• 2 yards #9 Metallic Mylar
• 1 strand Garland
• 1 strand Beads
• One 36" Honeycomb Streamer
• One 36" Superlane Streamer
• One 36" Ice Crunch Streamer
• Three 36" #9 Printed Ribbons
• One 36" Class Ribbon (Freshman, Sophomore, etc)
• 5 yards curling ribbon (to hang or tie trinkets on with)
• HOMECOMING  1.25" Block Letter Stickers
• Stickers for up to two Names
• PRINTED TUTORIAL - STEP BY STEP WITH PICTURES!

 

Triple Homecoming Mum Kit

 

MelzMumz.com Triple Homecoming Mum Kit

Triple Homecoming Mum made with www.melzmumz.com Triple Homecoming Mum Kit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Triple Homecoming Mum Kit Includes:

• Three - 6 1/2" Flowers (Or you can upgrade to the 7.25" 21 Layer Flower)
  
• Four - Heart shaped Backers (you will use 3 for making the mum and 1 extra for just in case!)
• 3 Pieces of Pipe Cleaner to Attach Flower
• 1.5 yards Satin Ribbon to Tie around Neck
• One - 36" Military Braid
• One - 3/8" Pull Bow (for end of braid)
• Two Jinglebells
• One - 1" Cowbell (for end of braid)
• One - 1.25" Cowbell
• 4 Large Trinkets
• 4 Medium Trinkets
• 4 Small Trinkets
• 1 Class Star
• 22 yards #16 Satin Acetate (2" wide ribbon) in school colors (for mum top, streamers and homecoming loop)
• 14 yards #9 Satin Acetate (1.25" wide ribbon) in school colors (for mum top, streamers and homecoming loop)
• 6  yards #5 Satin Acetate (7/8" wide) in school colors (for mum top)
• 4  yards #3 Satin Acetate (3/8" wide) in school colors  (for mum top)
• 2 yards #5 Metallic Mylar
• 2 yards #9 Metallic Mylar
• 2 strands Garland
• 1 strand Beads
• Two 36" Honeycomb Streamers
• One 36" Superlane Streamer
• Two 36" Ice Crunch Streamer
• Four 36" #9 Printed Ribbons
• One 36" Class Ribbon (Freshman, Sophomore, etc)
• 5 yards curling ribbon (to hang or tie trinkets on with)
• HOMECOMING  1.25" Block Letter Stickers
• Stickers for up to two Names
• PRINTED TUTORIAL - STEP BY STEP WITH PICTURES!

Homecoming Garter Kit

 

MelzMumz.com Homecoming Garter Kit

Garter made with MelzMumz.com Homecoming Garter Kit

 

 

Single Homecoming Garter Kit Includes:

• One - 5.5" Flower
• 1 Piece Pipe Cleaner to attach flower
• One - Single White Satin Garter
• Four - 4" Round Backers (you will use 3 for making the mum and 1 extra for just in case!)
• One - 16" Military Braid
• One - 3/8" Pull Bow (for end of braid)
• One - 1" Cowbell (for end of braid)
• 4 Medium Trinkets
• 3 Small Trinkets
• 1 Class Star
• 4 yards #16 Satin Acetate (2" wide ribbon) in school colors (for streamers)
• 12 yards #9 Satin Acetate (1.25" wide ribbon) in school colors (for mum top & streamers)
• 8  yards #5 Satin Acetate (7/8" wide) in school colors (for mum top & streamers)
• 3  yards #3 Satin Acetate (3/8" wide) in school colors  (for mum top)
• One 16" strand Garland
• One 16" Half Honeycomb Streamer
• One 16" Superlane Streamer
• One 16" Ice Crunch Streamer
• Two 16" #5 Metallic Mylar Ribbon Streamers
• Three 16" #9 Printed Ribbon
• One 16" Class Ribbon (Freshman, Sophomore etc)
• 5 yards curling ribbon (to hang or tie trinkets on with)
• HOMECOMING   .5" Block Letter Stickers
• Stickers for up to two Names
• PRINTED TUTORIAL - STEP BY STEP WITH PICTURES!

 

 

There are also Boosters you can add such as:

Bears, Band, All sports, extra ribbon, lights, boas and so much more!!  One stop shop for Homecoming Supplies!!

 

 

 

 

Guide to Buying a Homecoming Mum / Garter or Mum Supplies

If you are in the market to buy a Homecoming Mum or Garter, here are some guidelines to help "walk" you through the process to make it as easy as possible!

If you are needing to buy supplies to make your own mum or garter - go further down in post - there is also a printable shopping list at bottom. We also now have Free Printable Step by Step Picture instructions for all mum sizes & garters.  See details towards bottom of page.

 Buying a Homecoming Mum or Garter:

1. Find a Mum Maker:  The easiest way I have found is to Google Homecoming Mums and the name of the school you need it for.  Reason being, most mum makers will list the schools they make mums for so it will give you more local return listings.  There are alot of mum makers that ship as well (myself included) so if you google homecoming mums by itself, it will pull up alot of your bigger mum makers.   As far as pricing goes, from what I have determined, is that you will make out a little better with mum makers that include most things in their price.  If you have to pick out and pay for every single printed ribbon, metallic ribbon, trinket etc, it usually will cost more and they are working with only the items you specifically purchased.  I have based this off of other mum makers order forms and added up everything I put on one of my mums and theirs add up to way more.  Usually they use the inital low low price to get people in the door but that will be for points, flower and plain streamers and that is it.  Remember, cheap doesn't always make it good and expensive doesn't necessarily make it the best - look at their pictures or go see them in person - it gives you a better idea of what they can create and what you will be getting for your money.
2. Know what size you need/want:  Freshman are a Single, Sophomores are a Double, Juniors are a Triple and Seniors are Quads.  HOWEVER, Seniors,, Juniors and Sophomores can all do a single if they prefer and most Seniors tend to go for a Triple or my Super Size Single which is a HUGE single mum.  The only thing you don't want to do here is order a double for a freshman,  triple for a freshman or sophomore or a Quad for a Freshman, Sophomore or Junior.  If you go by that, then you'll be ok.  Look at my post, what size? what to buy? to get more specifics on this.
3. Figure out your budget:  Know what you are willing to spend.  There are so many options out there ranging from the most basic of mums to the most elaborate.   There is no right or wrong here.  Try to remember to be fair.  Do not expect to pay $50 for a MEGA mum.  It isn't possible, the wholesale cost of supplies alone will far surpass that not to mention the time it takes to make one.  Be reasonable and once you know what you are willing to spend, base your selections off of that and you will not be disappointed.  But do look at some of their finished product before you decide who to go with and what their exact prices are - you want to make sure you are getting your money's worth too!!  It seems if people don't want to put their pricing out there easy to find, then they might have a reason they hide it. 
4. Ribbons:  For Freshman, Sophomore and Junior the mum/garter must be in the school colors.  Adding a little bit of accent color (such as purple or zebra etc) is acceptable.  Seniors are all white/silver or white/gold (this is where most get an accent color of choice).    Be sure to have metallic ribbons and printed ribbons - they really pop and make a huge difference in the end result!! 
5. Braids:  Try to find something that has some braids and loops - these help the mum look fuller.  Especially braids like the military, curly q and box braid since they are more 3 dimensional.
6. Get a boa:  They don't cost alot but look awesome on the mum!!
7. Bells are a must:  At least have a few on there!!
8. Put the name on there:  If you are giving this to your date - put both names on there. 
9. Add the personal touch:  If the person plays a sport or is on drill team, cheerleading, etc - have something representing that.  If they love something in particular (let's say pigs) then have a little piggy put on there.  If they are in band/choir have music notes on there, etc. You get the idea :-)

 

 

Buying Supplies to Make Your Own Mum or Garter: Here is a Download Shopping List to help you in the store so you don't forget anything!! Or if you want to save lots of time, money and some sanity, skip the store and check out my deluxe homecoming mum and garter kits just packed full of everything you need to make a complete mum or garter and MUCH cheaper than your local craft store!!  AND NOW to help you even more - we have our step by step picture instructions for single, double & triple homecoming mums and homecoming garters FOR FREE!!!  On our website MelzMumz.com Make Your Own Mum Kit scroll to very bottom of page and the free instructions are there!

1. Backers:  You will need at least 3 (I believe 2 come in a pack) and if it is a single mum you will need the 6" round backers, if it is a double mum you will need the oval backers and if it is a triple you will need the heart shaped backers.  For single garters you will buy the 4" round backers.  I use 3 backers on each mum/garter I make (1 for the top decorated part, 1 for all the hanging ribbons and braids and 1 to finish the back nice and neat).  I would recommend buying two packs because you may mess up one of the backers (which happens alot) and this way you wouldn't have to run to store to get another one.
2. Flowers:  You need however many for the size you are making (1 for single, 2 for double etc.)  For mums you want at least a 6 1/2" flower or bigger (I use 7 1/2") and try to find ones that have alot of layers (they look fluffier).  11 layer is the thinest, you want 15 layers or more (I use 21 layer flowers and they make a huge difference).  For a garter the smallest size flower I would use is a 4 1/2".  Most common is the 5 1/2 flower for a garter but if you want a bigger one then go up to a 6 1/2" (I use the 5 1/2" on my Deluxe and 6 1/2" on my Mega Garters)
3. Ribbon:  Now this is my personal recommendation.  Of course you can go with more or less, this is just what I recommend (I personally use a little more ribbon than this on mine but it's only because I make mine overloaded). 
   
   1. Solid streamers (school colors for Freshman, Sophomores and Juniors.  All white and Silver or Gold for Seniors.) 
      1. #16 Solid Ribbon:  This ribbon is 2" wide and will be the base of the mum.  For Singles and Doubles I would recommend at least 12 yards of this for the base.  You most likely will use some of this around the top of the mum as well which would take another 2 yards and if you use some on a homecoming or name loop - that will take another 3 yards.  For a triple or bigger - you will need at least 15 yards or more for the base.  For a garters keep the rule of "half" in mind - you will need half the amount of yardage for the base, braids etc. So 6 yards for a garter.
      2. #9 Solid Ribbon:   This ribbon is 1- 5/16"  This ribbon helps the mum/garter move and you want to put this on top of the #16 ribbon.  Alot of the printed ribbon is in this size.  You also will most likely use this size on the top of the mum so I would suggest getting 10 yards of this size in your school colors.  Garters do the same on this because you will use more of this size on the base than the mums do.
      3. #5 Solid Ribbon:  This ribbon is 7/8"  and is mainly used for braids.  I use this for my box braids, diamondback braids and you can do the victory braid with it as well.  This is also used around the top alot as well.  For braids - for the box braid I use 4 yards of 3 colors to make a 36" braid.  If you use it around the top you will need an additional 2 to 3 yards.
      4. #3 Solid Ribbon:  This ribbon is 5/8" and is mainly used for braids.  I use this for my military, victory, whip, sometimes for a box braid, and my curly q braid.  Military takes 4 yards of 2 colors, victory takes 1 yard of 4 colors and box takes 4 yards of 3 colors.
   2. Printed Ribbons:  I suggest getting anywhere from 4 to 15 - this will be your personal preference.  I put alot of printed ribbons on mine but I like the way they look.  Breaks up the solid color.
   3. Metallic Ribbons:  These are important.  They add the sparkle to the mum the most.  There of course is the solid mylar which I use in all of my braids (substitute it for one of the solid colors and mix solid with the mylar).  Most popular is the honeycomb which you can use to hang trinkets from too.  Ice Crunch is great - it really catches the light and I use it and the honeycomb ribbon on my homecoming/name loops and around the top of the mum.  If you are wanting to use honeycomb or ice crunch on a homecoming/name loop you will need at least 3 yards continuous for this and if you want to use it around the top you will need 2 yards continuous. 
   4. Clear Ribbons:  I love the clear ribbons because the metallic printing on them really pops but they aren't necessary.  Personally I try to put 2 or 3 on all my mums/garters.
   5. Silk or Specialty Ribbons:  I use these on all of my Mega Mums.  You will have to venture off the homecoming isle to the Christmas or Ribbon isle to find unique wired ribbons.  I use this type for the homecoming loops and around the top of the mum. Also use this for all of my Deluxe mums for the top of the mum and bows.
   6. Bows:  I put this here as a reminder that if you are wanting to bows on stuff be sure to get extra ribbon for that.
   7. Neck Ribbon:  This will most likely be over by the wedding stuff or ribbon isles but try to look for a spool of soft silky ribbon to use to tie around the neck.  If you are pinning it on then just a little piece of your satin acetate and you will be fine.
4. Trinkets, Garland and Bells:  So now go back to the main homecoming isle and start your search.  First find the section of the colors you need and start picking.  You can get however many you want and this is just picking what you like.   Be sure to get at least one package of garland.  Don't forget your cowbells - many sizes here so find what you like and if you move over to the crafting isles you will usually find jingle bells here.  Now if you aren't making your own braids - then be sure to pick up a couple of those too. 
5. Bear:  Get a bear for the mum - whichever size you prefer.  If you don't want a bear then be thinking about what else you are going to put as the centerpiece.
6. If you are making a garter DON'T FORGET YOUR GARTER - these are usually hanging by trinkets, etc.
7. Extras:  Go pick up some rhinestones or venture over to Christmas isle - lots of fun things here - this is where you will pick up neat little items to put on your mum.  Find you a boa or feathers over on the crafting isles.  Rhinestones and charms in the jewelry section.  Fabric if you are going to dress your bear, etc.
8. Glue, Scissors and Staples:  Don't forget these - you will get home and say "well now how the heck am I supposed to put this together"??!!!  For most sizes, one bag of glue should be plenty.  I know most people have scissors in their home, however if you don't have a sharp pair you might want to invest in a new good pair of scissors so you don't snag your ribbon when you are cutting it.

Download Shopping List

And don't forget all my tutorials!!

NOW FOR FREE - our step by step picture tutorials for Single, Double & Triple Homecoming Mums and Homecoming Garters!!

Visit our site MelzMumz.com Make Your Own Homecoming Mum page and scroll to very bottom of page and printable instructions are there - for FREE!!

 

Hope this helps a little and HAPPY MUM SHOPPING!!!

Melissa

2012 Homecoming Garters

 

Alrighty Roo!!  Garter time!

 

Have lots to show sooooooooo lets start with the big ones!

 

Triple Mega Homecoming Garter made by www.melzmumz.com

 

Well, believe it or not this is a garter!  I actually had several triple garters this year!  This one was for a Junior at Concordia Lutheran.  It has lights on it as well.  This year I had made some custom tassels and you can see it on the right middle of the body in the picture above.  They really made a neat addition.  Oh - here you can see below just how big this thing is when wearing it.  

 

Triple Mega Homecoming Garter made by www.melzmumz.com

 

This is my amazing husband who modeled the garter for me which turned out to be pretty funny at the time.  I asked him to wear it so I could take a picture.  When I started putting it on his arm he realized it wasn't a mum and said "WAIT!!! THIS IS FOR A GUY??!!!!  DOES HE KNOW HE HAS TO WEAR THIS!!!!??"   I laughed so hard.  He really thought it was a mum - he had no idea that even the guys garters get big and crazy now too!  Believe it or not I actually had several this size this year!

 

 

Triple Mega Homecoming Garter made by www.melzmumz.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next I will show you a couple of my doubles.   

 

This was my favorite double mega garter this year because it was so fun!  The guy that wore this wanted a Batman themed garter so what better way to show it than with BATBEAR!!

 

 

Double Mega Homecoming Garter made by www.melzmumz.com

 

It had lights on it too but of course you can't see them in the picture.  Here is a little bit closer up of a pic.  He had a cape and everything!! 

 

Double Mega Homecoming Garter made by www.melzmumz.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 OK don't laugh (all you moms out there are going to completely understand what I did) but the real test for me to see if my Batbear was realistic was showing it to my 5 year old son and saying "who is this??" and he said BATMAN BEAR!!  Phew - I did it!  Then of course the next thing out of his mouth was "is that for me??"   so guess how many BAT BEARS I ended up making :-)

 

 

This is a Mega Double Garter for Grapevine High School.  She wanted green accents added to it with a fishing and sweetheart theme.  I found the cutest little fish to put on the end of the braids! 

Double Mega Homecoming Garter    Senior Grapevine High School made by www.melzmumz.com

 

 

 

 

 

Mega Double Homecoming Garter  Senior Grapevine High School  made by www.melzmumz.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is another Grapevine High School Mega Double Garter for a senior.  She wanted royal blue accents and a baseball theme.  Now it's really hard to tell from the pictures just how big these things are.  The doubles are as wide as that triple my husband is wearing up top.

 

 

Mega Double Homecoming Garter Senior Grapevine High School made by www.melzmumz.com

 

Oh wait!  I do have a pic of one being worn!! 

Mega Double Garter and Mega Quad Homecoming Mum made by www.melzmumz.com

This is the batbear!  I actually made both the garter and the quad in this picture.

 

At least this gives a better idea of how big the garter is!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Now for some Mega Single Garters!     

 

Mega Single Homecoming Garter Wakeland High School made by www.melzmumz.com

Mega Single Homecoming Garter Flower Mound High School made by www.melzmumz.com

Mega Single Homecoming Garter Marcus High School made by www.melzmumz.com

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

These are all Mega Single Homecoming Garters.  They are REALLY big garters as well.  The flower is a 6 1/2 " flower!    You can see how I try to made each one specific to the person wearing it.  This one on the left was a football theme and the one on the right was for FFA - he showed pigs (see the tiny 1st place ribbon I made for the little piggy!!)

 

 

 

OK so this is one of the craziest ones I have done!  The guy wearing this was into hunting BIG TIME - and he wanted snow camo ribbon and orange ribbon worked in.  I had this crazy idea in my head and searched high and low and found this perfect deer hear and MOUNTED IT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE FLOWER!!!  Isn't that cool!!  They LOVED it!!! 

 

 

Mega Single Homecoming Garter Marcus High School made by www.melzmumz.com

 

Here is another one that took me a while.  The guy wearing this loved wakeboarding.  So I looked up pictures of wakeboards and MADE ONE!  Look closely - it even says O'Brien on the board!!

 

 

Mega Single Homecoming Garter Coppell High School Senior made by www.melzmumz.com

Mega Single Homecoming Garter Senior Coppell High School made by www.melzmumz.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mega Single Homecoming Garter Flower Mound High School made by www.melzmumz.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks for looking and I hope you enjoyed!   As always, please feel free to leave me comments - I love to know what you think!!!

Melissa

 

all garters made by www.melzmumz.com

New to Homecoming Mums? What size? What to order? READ THIS!

So you're son or daughter comes home and says they need a homecoming mum or homecoming garter and you think "A WHAT??!!"  

 

Well hopefully I can help eleviate some of the confusion with this process and make it a little easier and FUN! 

 

First, if you have never heard of these - you might want to read Homecoming Mums - the tradition for a little info.  If you have a general idea of what these are then let's get going.

 

You need a Homecoming Mum or Garter:

This would be either from you (the parent) to your daughter/son or for your son/daughter to give to his/her date.  Or you are buying one for yourself!  Well here are a few tips:

 

Freshman Homecoming Mum:  If you are buying/making a homecoming mum for a Freshman, you need a Single Mum (meaning only 1 flower).   The flower can be any size you would like as long as it is only 1 flower.  For example I make a Basic Single Homecoming Mum, a Deluxe Single Homecoming Mum and a Super Single Deluxe Homecoming Mum. Any of these would be acceptable for a Freshman.  My most popular mum I sell for a Freshman is a Deluxe Single Homecoming Mum.  The mum needs to be in the school colors with a coordinating metallic color (silver or gold).  A little bit of an accent color is ok too (like zebra, cheetah, hot pink, etc.)

Sophomore Homecoming Mum:  If you are buying/making a homecoming mum for a Sophomore, you will need a Double Mum (meaning 2 flowers).  It is acceptable to have a Single Homecoming Mum instead (whichever you prefer) - the double is just tradition.  These are examples of a Basic Double Homecoming Mum and a Deluxe Double Homecoming Mum.  The mum should be made in the school colors with a coordinating metallic color (silver or gold).  If you want a little bit of accent color added, that's ok too (such as zebra, cheetah, hot pink, etc).  Once again the Deluxe Double Homecoming Mum is the most popular of the double mums I sell.

Junior Homecoming Mum:  If you are buying/making a homecoming mum for a Junior then tradition is a Triple Homecoming Mum (meaning 3 flowers).  I have 3 types of triples, Basic Triple Homecoming Mum, Deluxe Triple Homecoming Mum & MEGA Triple Homecoming Mum.  Another size some Juniors will go with is my Deluxe Super Single Homecoming Mum or  MEGA Super Single Homecoming Mum. With Juniors, you can do any size you want other than a quad.    

Senior Homecoming Mum:  If you are buying/making a homecoming mum for a Senior, then you can pretty much order whatever you want.  Tradition would be a Quad Homecoming Mum which is 4 flowers, however, my Mega Triple Homecoming Mums are the most popular for seniors (and are actually almost the same size as a quad!).  Mega Super Size Single Homecoming Mums are a great option as well.  Here are some examples of my Mega Quad Mums and Mega Triple Mums. Another fun way is to have a Triple Mum with a Single mum that goes over the Shoulder.  There are also Quints (yep 5 flowers) and beyond which these typically would be ordered only by a Senior.  For us the most popular ones we sell for seniors are a Deluxe Triple Homecoming Mum, MEGA Triple Homecoming Mum or a MEGA Quad Homecoming Mum with the Deluxe Super Single Homecoming Mums and MEGA Super Single Homecoming Mums coming in a close second.   Seniors will have all white with either silver or gold (depending on school's colors) and lately most seniors add an accent color or favorite color to it as well (like hot pink, turquoise or zebra, etc).  Think of the Senior Mum as being your biggest and best mum you have out of all your high school years.

Homecoming Garters ALL CLASSES: Homecoming garters are a little different.  The same theory applies (a freshman wouldn't have a double or triple garter) but most guys will opt for a single garter all the way through high school.  Our experience has been Freshmen and Sophomores getting a Basic Single Homecoming Garter or a  Deluxe Single Homecoming Garter with the Deluxe being the most popular.  Juniors usually opt for a MEGA Single Homecoming Garter since it is a little bigger and signifies the upper classman status.  Most Seniors will do a MEGA Single Homecoming Garter, however in the past few years the MEGA Double Homecoming Garter and MEGA Triple Homecoming Garter have gained popularity.  Last year we even made a MEGA Quad Homecoming Garter for a Senior in Houston! The colors work the same way with Freshmen, Sophomores and Juniors keeping strictly to the school colors (little bit of accent color allowed) with seniors being either the silver and white or gold and white. 

 

So, now you know what size you want to get - but what do you want on it??  How much is enough stuff???   Contrary to popular believe, no one is going to become a social pariah if they don't have the biggest and best mum out there.  You do of course want something nice and this is where personal preference and budget will come into play.   First decide what you can spend and then decide what size and items are most important to you.  For budget if you are making your own mum or garter you should check our our Make Your Own Homecoming Mum Kits that come with tons of items and EVERYTHING you need to make something amazing but at a significant savings compared to the craft stores!

 

If you are buying a mum: 

1. FINDING A MUM MAKER: Try to find a place that doesn't nickel and dime you for every trinket, garland, etc.  Most mum makers that I personally know (myself included), have a set price that includes many many items and custom design with maybe some add larger options.  You tend to make out better this way because when they are making your mum they aren't using "only the trinkets/items you paid for" etc, instead it's all about the overall look and finished product.  If you google homecoming mums and the name of your school it will usually pull up local mum makers.  If there aren't any in your area, some do offer shipping.  MelzMumz.com offers shipping as well.
2. PUT THE NAMES ON THERE.   If it is a guy giving it to a girl, etc - put both of their names on it.   Personally I think it is neat to also put their nickname if they have one.
3. RIBBON COLORS.  Be sure to order the mum in the school colors EXCEPT SENIORS!   Seniors get white and silver or white and gold depending on the school.  Many seniors are opting for an accent color added as well (hot pink, turquoise, lime, purple, zebra, cheetah, etc).  It is ok to add a little bit of an accent color to Freshman, Sophomore, Junior mums as well.  Zebra and Cheetah are both extremely popular. 
4. GET A BOA.  Just do it.  The boas add so much for so little - they are fun and fluffy and well lets just face it - who doesn't love a boa???   
5. BELLS ARE A MUST! - you want it to jingle and make lots of noise!  
6. TRINKETS AND SUCH - and if you know a bit about the person wearing the mum - most mum makers will customize it to suit the person's individuality such as adding whatever sport they play or clubs they participate in.  This is where it can get creative.  You don't have to stick to just trinkets, you can add ornaments and just about anything you can think of.  Last year I had a MEGA Triple Mum done in a fifties "Grease" theme with cheetah, hot pink & black.  I hung fuzzy dice from the mum and had half of a vinyl album sticking out of the top!
7. SPECIALTY RIBBONS- such as printed, silk, all sorts of metallics.  These really make a big difference in the way a mum looks, especially holographics.   They add so much dimension to the mum.  At the very least, try to have at least 3 or 4 printed ribbons and a few metallic ribbons like honeycomb ribbon or ice crunch. To see examples of different types of ribbon you can go to my website www.melzmumz.com and click on extras examples - it will show you pics of most everything. 
8. BRAIDS AND LOOPS - they are just neat - but the best thing about them is they make the mum fuller!  I see so many mums out there without any braids, just a bunch of ribbon hanging down and they look so flat!  Put a braid on there - you'll be much happier with it.
9. LOOK AROUND - find pictures of mums you like.  Try not to get overwhelmed.  Most mum makers will work with you if you say "I like this but don't like these, etc" to come up with the perfect design.  And don't worry if you have no idea what you want - most professional mum makers know what they are doing and will create something amazing for you - be sure to look at pictures of mums they have made - it will give you a pretty good idea of what they can create! 

GET CREATIVE!!  There aren't too many things that are really "taboo" with the mum.  Have fun with them!   I pride myself on making my mums very custom to the person wearing it.  For example, one year I made a garter for a guy that loved hunting.  I found a deer head that I "mounted" in the middle of the flower and started a new trend! Or a mum for a girl that loved root beer so I made a little root bear bottle with the Barg's label on it for the bear to hold, for a girl who sings I made a microphone for the bear to hold, and for a guy who wanted Batman theme - I made a BatBear!  Hello Kitty, Fishing, any sports, activities, you name it!!  So have fun with it!  They will most likely have these keepsakes forever!

 

If you are going to make a mum: 

Being a mum maker myself, I have to say a few things here about the reality of this and it is not because I am trying to deter anyone from making one - it's only to be honest and real about it.  I want you to ENJOY the mum experience!   If you are not a crafty person per se - DO NOT ATTEMPT TO MAKE ONE - it isn't worth it!  You will end up mad, frustrated and definitely will not enjoy the mum experience.  These take many hours to make, so be prepared to devote the time. The quality of the turn out 100% depends on the time and focus you put into it.   Also, contrary to popular belief, it usually is not cheaper to make one.  Once you go buy all the supplies at the local craft store, many times you will spend more than if you purchased one.   I cannot tell you how many times I have been in a store and overheard a mom complaining that this is their 4th trip up to the store for more supplies and that they are now up to $150 - $200 into it. 

With that being said, if you are crafty and are wanting to make a mum or garter (which can be alot of fun!!) - you will of course need to get supplies.  MelzMumz.com actually offers complete Make Your Own Homecoming Mum kits with EVERYTHING you need to make an amazing mum or garter PLUS INSTRUCTIONS!  These are not rinky dink kits with bare bones basics - they are packed full of stuff!! Also our kits will save you lots of $$$ compared to the craft store prices!  See our price comparison here.  We also have for FREE printable step by step picture instructions with over 30 photos each for Single Homecoming Mums, Double Homecoming Mums, Triple Homecoming Mums and Homecoming Garters!  Click here and scroll to very bottom of page and you will see printable instructions.  Or if you want to shop you will need to go to a local craft store and buy the flowers, tons of ribbon (solid satin acetate) printed ribbon, metallic ribbons, garland, trinkets, backers, stuffed animal, bells, braids, glue, staples and any other accessories you would like.   It is best to go with a list so you know what to buy.  I have put together a Download Shopping List that lists all the necessary items to check off as you get them plus with a notes section to add anything special you are looking for.  This will help you get the necessary items to make a mum or garter and not forget anything.  Having all basics covered makes it easier to shop in the madness of the store (if you have shopped during homecoming season in the local craft stores - you know what I'm talking about!).  Also be prepared the stores usually run out of some of the supplies (usually flowers, bears or backers) so try to shop early if you can!

I have many tutorials here on my blog that can help walk you through the process of creating one and making braids.  And if you seem to get stumped along the way - message me!  I try to answer posts right away.  During mum season it can get a little hairy for me so sometimes it might take me a day or two but usually I try to answer right away!

Hope this helps provide some insight and guidance.  Good luck and enjoy your new Homecoming Mum experience!

 

Melissa

www.melzmumz.com

Homecoming Mums - the Tradition

The Homecoming Mum tradition is a very old tradition that has evolved greatly over the years.  What started out as a simple real flower (chrysanthemum) with some ribbons is now a silk flower with ribbons and almost anything you can imagine added to them.

There are many traditions that have stayed the same for many many years now.  Of course new trends always pop up, but some things remain the same.

In the past Homecoming Mums were given from a boy to a girl that he is taking to the Homecoming Dance.  The bigger the mum the more "loved" you were.  This is not necessarily the case anymore. 

Today, Homecoming mums are still exchanged with the boy getting his date a Homecoming Mum and the girl gets her date a smaller version the boy wears on the arm called a Homecoming Garter.  But due to the changing times, may teenagers now prefer to go to Homecoming with friends or in groups eliminating the need for a "date".  In this instance,  parents usually buy homecoming mums for their daughters or girls will buy them for themselves or their friends!  The little sis mum has become a fun tradition for high school girls to get one for their little sister who might be in middle school or elementary as a way for them to be including in on all the fun.

Homecoming Mums are worn on game day (which is usually Friday) at school all day.  As you can imagine on Homecoming day, the High School halls are filled with sounds of bells, ribbon rustling and all sorts of noise makers.   Then you wear your mum to the Homecoming Football game that night as well.   Most schools do not wear their mums to the Dance, only to school and game.

Then you have the sizes, oh my the sizes.   The tradition is that Freshmen have a single mum, Sophomores have a double mum, and Juniors have a triple mum made in the school colors.   Seniors will have all sorts of sizes (Quads and Triples being most common) or even large single mums.  The senior mums are usually all white and either gold or silver depending on the school colors.  Over the past few years, many seniors elect to add an "accent" color of their choice such as hot pink or purple.  These are the traditional guidelines, but not a set in stone rule.   The only true faux pas would be getting an underclassman too big of a mum (such as a freshman wearing a triple, etc).

The Homecoming Mum has become a fun way to show your school spirit and your individuality.  On the mum themselves, you can add most anything you want!  Most people keep their mums forever.  Many hang them on their bedroom walls and cherish them for many years to come!

 

Hope you enjoyed reading this!

Melissa

www.melzmumz.com