DIY Paper Garland: A Showstopping Craft

Updated at: 01/06/2025

Transform your space with the effortless elegance of a DIY paper garland! Forget expensive store-bought decorations – creating your own stunning garland is surprisingly simple, affordable, and incredibly rewarding. Whether you're planning a birthday bash, a festive holiday celebration, or just want to add a touch of whimsy to your everyday life, a handcrafted paper garland offers a unique and personalized touch that instantly elevates any environment. The possibilities are endless, from classic colors to bold patterns, allowing you to perfectly match your aesthetic and create a truly showstopping centerpiece.

This versatile craft is perfect for all skill levels, requiring only a few basic materials and a little bit of patience. From simple triangles to intricate shapes, you can tailor the design to your exact preferences, making it a fantastic project for both adults and children. Ready to get started on creating your own eye-catching masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Cutting mat
  • Vellum paper
  • Pearlescent card stock
  • Pencil
  • Leaf template
  • Scissors
  • Scoring template (from bhg.com)
  • Bone folder
  • String
  • Round paper punch
  • Red card stock
  • White floral wire
  • Hot glue gun
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise children when using scissors, glue, and other crafting tools. Keep small items away from young children to prevent choking hazards.
  • Use caution when working with sharp scissors. Cut away from yourself and others. Consider blunt-ended scissors for younger crafters.
  • Ensure adequate ventilation when using spray adhesive or other potentially strong-smelling materials. Work in a well-ventilated area or outdoors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Leaves

    • Trace the leaf template onto both Vellum and card stock and cut them out.
    • Use the scoring template to score each leaf several times using a bone folder on a cushioned surface.
    • Gently fold the leaf along the score line.
    • Repeat to make several more leaves.
    Repeat to make several more leaves.Repeat to make several more leaves.Repeat to make several more leaves.Repeat to make several more leaves.
    Prepare the Leaves

  2. Assemble the Garland

    • Attach the stems of the leaves to a piece of string, alternating Vellum and card stock leaves.
    Attach the stems of the leaves to a piece of string, alternating Vellum and card stock leaves.
    Assemble the Garland

  3. Make Berry Clusters

    • Make several circles from red card stock using a paper punch.
    • Cut and fold three pieces of white floral wire in half, twisting them. Sandwich a piece of wire between two red circles and hot glue them together.
    • Twist three wire strands together to make a cluster. Repeat to make several more.
    Twist three wire strands together to make a cluster. Repeat to make several more.Twist three wire strands together to make a cluster. Repeat to make several more.Twist three wire strands together to make a cluster. Repeat to make several more.
    Make Berry Clusters

  4. Attach Berries to Garland

    • Attach the berry clusters to the backs of every third or fourth leaf on the garland using hot glue.
    Attach the berry clusters to the backs of every third or fourth leaf on the garland using hot glue.
    Attach Berries to Garland

  5. Hang the Garland

    • Hang your garland.
    Hang your garland.
    Hang the Garland

Read more: Easy Origami Paper Box Tutorial: Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • Use a cushioned surface like a cutting mat when scoring the leaves to prevent damage.
  • Alternate Vellum and card stock leaves for a visually interesting garland.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Unevenly Cut Paper Strips

Reason: Using a ruler and not cutting accurately leads to a messy and unprofessional look.
Solution: Use a sharp pair of scissors and a ruler for precise cuts, paying close attention to your lines.

2. Incorrect Glue Placement

Reason: Applying too much or too little glue will cause the garland to be unstable or have glue showing.
Solution: Use a thin line of glue only where the paper strips overlap, ensuring even distribution.

3. Paper Too Thin or Too Thick

Reason: Too thin paper will tear, while too thick paper will be difficult to fold and create a nice garland.
Solution: Use construction paper or cardstock that is neither too flimsy nor too stiff.

FAQs

What kind of paper is best for making a paper garland?
Cardstock is ideal for a sturdy garland that holds its shape well. Construction paper works too, but may be more prone to wrinkling. You can even experiment with patterned scrapbook paper for a unique look!
How do I make sure my garland hangs evenly?
Ensure your paper shapes are all roughly the same size and equally spaced along the string. You can use a ruler and template to ensure consistency. For extra support, consider using a slightly thicker string or ribbon.
What if I don't have a hole punch? Can I still make a garland?
Yes! You can carefully poke holes using a sharp needle or awl. Alternatively, you can use glue to attach the paper shapes to the string. Just make sure the glue is strong enough to hold.