Decorating for the holidays must not be expensive or complicated. One of the simplest, yet most heartwarming crafts you can make is a christmas paper chains DIY. These chains aren’t just great for adding a festive flair to your home, but they’re also a fun project to do with kids or loved ones.
You can make beautiful paper chain decorations easily. All you need are strips of paper, some creativity, and basic supplies like construction paper and glue. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide to create three adorable designs: a reindeer, a snowman, and a Christmas tree.
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Why christmas paper chains are perfect for the holidays
Christmas paper chains are a classic holiday decoration. They bring a touch of nostalgia and charm, reminding many of simpler times. They not only cost little to make, but you can also tailor them to fit any holiday theme. These DIY decorations are perfect for :
- Adding a handmade touch to your Christmas decor.
- Entertaining kids with a creative activity.
- Creating countdown calendars for Christmas.
- Decorating walls, trees, or mantels with a unique twist.
Materials you’ll need
Before starting your Christmas paper chain decorations DIY project, gather these materials:
- Strips of paper (cut from construction paper in various colors like brown, red, green, white, and black)
- Glue or stapler (or double-sided tape)
- Scissors
- Googly eyes (optional but fun!)
- A hole punch (optional for tree decor)
- Small star stickers (for the Christmas tree)
- Markers or crayons for additional details
Step-by-step guide: christmas paper chains DIY
1. Creating the reindeer paper chain
Materials:
- Brown construction paper
- Red paper
- Googly eyes
- Marker
Steps:
- Cut strips: Cut the construction paper into strips of paper approximately 1 inch wide and 6-8 inches long.
- Make the chain: Form the first paper loop by gluing or stapling the ends of one strip together. Thread the next strip through the loop and secure it to create the chain. Repeat until your chain is the desired length.
- Add a face: For the reindeer’s face, cut a smaller oval from the brown paper. Glue on googly eyes and a red nose (using red paper). Draw antlers using a black marker or cut them out from brown paper.
- Attach the head: Use glue or staple to secure the reindeer face to the top loop of the chain.
2. Crafting the snowman paper chain
Materials:
- White paper
- Black paper
- Orange paper
- Marker
Steps:
- Cut Strips: Cut white paper into 1-inch wide strips for the chain. Repeat the same process to form loops for the chain.
- Build the Snowman’s Face: Cut a small circle from white paper. Draw two eyes and a smile using a black marker, and add an orange triangle for the carrot nose.
- Make the Hat: Use black paper to cut out a small top hat.
- Attach the Features: Glue the face and hat onto the top loop of the chain. Your snowman paper chain is ready to spread holiday cheer!
3. Designing the christmas tree paper chain
Materials:
- Green paper
- Red paper
- Yellow star stickers
Steps:
- Cut Strips: Use green paper to create the main chain. Alternate red and green strips for a more festive look.
- Make the Tree Topper: Cut a small triangle from green paper to resemble the top of a Christmas tree. Decorate it with a yellow star sticker and tiny red circles (cut from red paper) for ornaments.
- Attach Decorations: Use glue to attach the tree topper to the top loop of the chain. You can punch holes in the green paper to add an extra decorative flair.
Tips for customizing your paper chains
- Experiment with Colors: Incorporate colored paper or metallic cardstock for a more glamorous look.
- Add Personalization: Write holiday greetings or names on each link to create a personalized touch.
- Use Different Themes: Instead of reindeer, snowmen, and trees, you can try Santas, candy canes, or even angels.
Where to display your christmas paper chains
Now that you’ve completed your DIY Christmas paper chains, it’s time to show them off! Here are a few creative places to hang them:
- Across windows or door frames.
- Draped around your Christmas tree as garlands.
- On a mantelpiece or bookshelf.
- Lining the walls of a child’s room.
Conclusion
Making your own Christmas DIY paper chains is a budget-friendly way to decorate for the holidays. Also, a great way to create memories with your loved ones exists. From reindeer to snowmen and Christmas trees, these paper chains are full of festive charm and creativity. If you are decorating your home or seeking a fun activity, this craft will bring holiday joy.
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