The best way is to power the RPi through the USB because using the +5 and ground pins on the pi have some issues (see the official pi site and search external 5v power. I have built several projects with pins and using those header pins to apply power but, there is apparently some risks - I haven't had any problems.
Also, make sure you have at least 1.5 amps to power the pi before voltage sag and more if you have RPi display (2.5A for display + pi).
if you can split a USB cable, that would be best butindividual stranded wires get pretty tiny to deal with.