The Shopwada Journal

Pool Tips

Sizing help, team-order tips and gear ideas for golf, bowling, billiards, pickleball and archery — from the Shopwada team.

Pool player in a blue splash billiard polo lining up a cue shot

How to Aim in Pool: Ghost Ball, Cut Shots and Drills

The ghost ball method, pro aiming tricks for each cut, and drills.

4 min read
Woman aiming a pool cue with a bridge hand on a billiard table wearing a pink and white 8 ball billiard polo

How to Hold a Pool Cue: Grip, Bridge and Stance Steps

Grip, bridge types, stance, common mistakes and drills.

4 min read
Player aiming a cue at the cue ball on a pool table in a classic billiard hall wearing a black polo with an American flag eagle holding an 8 ball

History of Pool: From Lawn Game to 8-Ball

A short timeline of billiards and pool, from the lawn to league night.

3 min read
Pool player in a black blue flaming skull billiard polo lining up a shot during an 8-ball game

8 Ball Pool Rules: How to Play, Fouls and How to Win

Rack, break, fouls and the 8 ball, explained step by step.

3 min read
Black polo with a flaming 8 ball, fire wings, cue sticks and a custom name

How to Break in Pool: Setup, Stroke and 8-Ball Tips

Rack, cue ball spot, stroke and 8-ball break options for league players.

3 min read
Pool player lining up a shot on a 9-ball table in a black flamingo billiards polo

9 Ball Rules: How to Play 9-Ball Pool (League Guide)

Rack, break, push out, fouls and how to win at 9-ball, with official UPA rule quotes.

4 min read
Pool league player in a black and blue lightning reaper polo lining up a shot as teammates watch

Pool League Etiquette: Unwritten Rules for League Night

The unwritten rules of league pool, from the break to the final handshake.

3 min read