DIY Cheer Team Bandanas for Less Than $3 Each
Cheer season is officially here!
My daughter is heading off to middle school cheer camp, and I wanted to send the girls with a little something to kick off the season. This year's team chose a plain backpack because it matches the high school cheer bags—a smart decision since they'll be able to use them for years (and let's be honest...cheer is expensive!).
The plain backpacks were practical, but they could use a little personality, so I thought custom team bandanas would be the perfect addition.
When I started shopping around, I found similar custom bandanas selling for $10–15 each. With 22 girls on the team, that would have cost well over $200.
I knew I could make something just as cute for a fraction of the price—and I was right.
For less than $3 per bandana, I created personalized gifts that looked professionally made, matched our team colors perfectly, and added a fun touch to each girl's backpack.
Project Cost
Bandana: Less than $1.00 each
Glitter HTV: Approximately $0.50 per bandana
Rhinestones: Approximately $1.00 per bandana (optional)
Total Cost: Under $3 per bandana
Compared to buying custom bandanas for $10–15 each, this project saved well over $150 for our team.
Supplies
Bandanas
I ordered these [bandanas] from Amazon because they came in a variety of colors and worked out to less than $1 each. They're lightweight, easy to fold, and the perfect size for tying onto a backpack.
Glitter Heat Transfer Vinyl
I used [glitter heat transfer vinyl] with my Cricut to make the team name really stand out. There are tons of colors available, making it easy to match your school or team.
Hotfix Rhinestones
[These] were my favorite surprise of the project. They added just the right amount of sparkle, were easy to apply, and stayed put really well after pressing.
Tools I Used
Cricut EasyPress
I received the Cricut EasyPress as a Christmas gift, and it has quickly become one of my favorite crafting tools. Compared to my small handheld press, it distributes heat much more evenly, connects to the Cricut Heat app, and tells you exactly what temperature and press time to use.
If you craft regularly, I think it's absolutely worth the investment.
You can find the [Cricut EasyPress here].
Heat Press Mat
Not required, but definitely nice to have. It protects your work surface and helps create even pressure while pressing.
I used [this heat press mat]
Flock Material (Optional)
If you're planning to add rhinestones using a Cricut template, [flock material] makes the process much easier. I'll share a full tutorial on creating rhinestone templates in a future post.
Hotfix Applicator (Alternative Method)
Don't have a Cricut rhinestone template? No problem! You can also apply the rhinestones individually using [this hotfix applicator]. It takes a little longer, but it's an easy way to add sparkle without making a template.
How to Make Custom Cheer Bandanas
Step 1: Fold the Bandana
Fold the bandana into the finished shape before applying your design. This helps you see exactly where the lettering should sit once it's tied onto the backpack.
Step 2: Create Your Design
I designed the lettering in Cricut Design Space using layered glitter vinyl.
To keep everything centered, I created the design inside a 2.5-inch by 9-inch rectangle. This kept the lettering from extending too far onto the tails of the bandana while still giving it plenty of impact.
Step 3: Apply the Vinyl
Using the Cricut EasyPress, press your design according to the recommended temperature and time for your vinyl.
Because the EasyPress provides even heat, I found it much easier to get professional-looking results than with my smaller handheld press.
Step 4: Add the Rhinestones (Optional)
Honestly, the bandanas looked adorable with just the glitter vinyl.
If you want a little extra sparkle, add SS10 hotfix rhinestones. I created a flock template using Cricut Design Space, but you can also place the rhinestones individually with a hotfix applicator.
Both methods work beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This project turned out even better than I expected.
Instead of spending hundreds of dollars on custom bandanas, I was able to make something personal that looked just as polished for a fraction of the cost. It was an easy afternoon project, and I love that each girl has something special to tie onto her backpack for camp.
Whether you're making gifts for a cheer team, dance team, sports team, or another group, this is one of those projects that looks high-end without the high-end price tag.
If you make a set for your own team, I'd love to hear how they turned out!
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to shop through my links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I use, love, or genuinely believe will help you create this project.
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