Back-to-School Bow Guide: What Your Cheer Team Needs for Fall 2026

Back-to-School Bow Guide: What Your Cheer Team Needs for Fall 2026

Fall Cheer Season Is Closer Than You Think

It's that time of year again — tryouts are wrapping up, rosters are set, and your team is ready to hit the sidelines looking their absolute best. But if you haven't ordered your custom cheer bows yet, now is the time to start. At Build a Bow, we've been outfitting cheer teams across the country since 2011, and we know that the teams who plan ahead are the ones who show up to the first game looking polished, unified, and ready to cheer.

Here's everything you need to know to get your team bow-ready for fall 2026.


Step 1: Choose the Right Bow Style for Your Team

Not all cheer bows are created equal — and the right style depends on where and how your team performs. Here's a quick breakdown:

  • Sideline Bows: These are your classic, everyday game-day bows. Bold, bright, and built to match your school colors, sideline bows are the staple of any cheer uniform. They're perfect for Friday night football games, pep rallies, and everything in between.
  • Competition Bows: Competition bows are designed to stand out under bright arena lights. They're often larger, more detailed, and can incorporate rhinestones, glitter, or custom artwork to match your competition uniform perfectly.
  • Breast Cancer Awareness Bows: Show your team's heart with pink ribbon bows — a meaningful way to honor the cause during October games and events.

Not sure which style is right for you? Our team is happy to help you find the perfect match. Just reach out and we'll walk you through your options.


Step 2: Customize Your Look

One of the things that sets Build a Bow apart is our ability to fully customize your bows to match your team's identity. Here's what you can personalize:

  • Colors: We color-match to your school or team colors so every bow is consistent across your entire squad.
  • Stone Options: Add rhinestones or glitter accents for extra sparkle — especially popular for competition and homecoming.
  • Custom Artwork: Have a mascot, logo, or design in mind? Submit your artwork and we'll incorporate it into your bow design. Our team will work with you to make sure the final product looks exactly the way you envisioned.
  • Sizing: We offer a range of sizes to suit different age groups and preferences, from youth squads to varsity teams.

Step 3: Explore Our Team Package Options

Ordering for a full squad? Our BAB School Packages are designed to make the process easy and affordable. Packages start at just $42 and go up to $72, giving you flexible options based on your team's size and needs.

Team packages are a great way to:

  • Ensure every athlete has a matching, high-quality bow
  • Simplify the ordering process with one coordinated order
  • Take advantage of bulk pricing

Whether you're outfitting a 10-person JV squad or a 40-person varsity team, we've got a package that works for you. Browse our school packages or contact us to discuss a custom quote.


Step 4: Order Early — Timelines Matter!

This is the most important tip we can give you: don't wait until the last minute.

Our standard turnaround time is 6–8 weeks, and during peak back-to-school season, that can extend to up to 12 weeks. That means if your first game is in late August or early September, you should be placing your order right now — or as soon as possible.

Here's a simple timeline to keep in mind:

  • Order by early June → Receive bows in time for August practices and preseason
  • Order by mid-June → Receive bows in time for the first week of school
  • Order by late June → Cutting it close for early September games — rush options may be available, contact us to discuss

We always do our best to accommodate every team, but the earlier you order, the more time we have to make sure every detail is perfect.


Ready to Get Started?

Build a Bow has been the trusted bow partner for cheer teams across the US since 2011. We're passionate about helping your team look great and feel confident — from the first practice to the championship floor.

Here's how to get started:

  1. Browse our products to find the style and package that fits your team.
  2. Contact us with your team size, colors, and any custom design ideas.
  3. Place your order early to lock in your spot in our production queue.

Have questions? We're here to help. Reach out to our team and let's make this your best cheer season yet. 🎀

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