How to Make a Sports Banner

Sports banners show support for your favorite team or player. Banners can be professionally made and purchased, but making them yourself is an option that fosters community pride and team spirit, and lets your team know you appreciate all the effort and hard work they put in. There are a variety of materials available for banners, but ones made to withstand the elements are best.

Things You'll Need

  • Poly tarp or canvas tarp
  • Electrical tape
  • Adhesive letters and numbers
  • Wide permanent markers
  • 1/2-inch dowel cut to size
  • Nylon line
  • Sewing machine
  • Thread
  • Scissors
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a large poly (polypropylene) tarp or a canvas tarp and a length of 1/2-inch dowel long enough to exceed the side-to-side width of your banner by 8 inches.

    • 2

      Cut your banner to the size desired, leaving an extra three inches on the top edge. For example, if you want a banner that is 6 feet wide and 4 feet tall, then you will cut a piece of material that is 6 feet wide and 4 feet, 3 inches tall.

    • 3
      A sewing machine makes a strong edge.

      Make a tunnel, or hem, on the top edge of the material. Fold the top edge down 3 inches for the entire length of the material, and pin every 6 inches. Using a sewing machine, sew the edge down from one end to the other, removing the pins as you go. Pin so that the hem is straight; a crooked hem will cause your banner to hang at an unattractive angle.

    • 4

      Cut your dowel to size, or have it cut at the home supply store. Many stores will make a cut for you at no additional charge. Make sure that the dowel is long enough to exceed the banner on each side by 4 inches. Slide the dowel into the tunnel you have sewn.

    • 5
      Let them know you have team spirit.

      Decorate the banner with team colors and write clearly. Use the adhesive letters and numbers, permanent markers or electrical tape. Incorporate team mottos, slogans and mascots into the design.

    • 6

      Leave room in your decorations for each team member to make a mark, such as a signature or personal symbol.

    • 7

      Hang the banner. Attach the nylon line to the dowel on each side of the banner and tie to a fence, bleachers, wall or free-standing unit.