In this blog post I'm going to show you how to make your own paper chains from Bright Stem wrapping paper. This craft project is a real classic. It's one of the earliest I remember doing, probably because it's quite simple and therefore perfect for involving kids. But it's amazing how such a simple craft can have a big effect, bringing a bit of brightness and joy to any space.
Paper chains are really versatile decorations suitable for any type of event. Whether you're hosting a Christmas party, throwing a surprise birthday celebration, or simply looking to add a pop of colour to your home, these decorations can add a bit of vintage charm to any space, be it a small cozy nook in your house or the rafters of the local village hall.
Thrifty Crafters:
Whether you enjoy upcycling, want to increase your recycling efforts, or you're simply a very 'thrifty' individual that likes getting the most out of your resources, this craft project is perfect for you! For those that don't know the word thrifty it's a word we like to use (or are known for being) in Yorkshire. It means showing a careful use of money, especially by avoiding waste. And this craft project is brilliant for avoiding waste.
It's ideal for making use of small scraps of leftover gift wrap that are too tiny for wrapping presents. You can also recycle previously used wrapping paper. (Just remember when you're cutting it into strips to try and avoid any big tears or marks.) Alternatively, you could just use a new sheet of wrapping paper! I think I used all three options to make this paper chain, so there is no incorrect choice.
Materials Needed:
To get started with your paper chain creation you'll need:
Bright Stem wrapping paper in various patterns/colours
Pencil
Metal ruler
Scalpel knife/craft knife and cutting board (scissors or a paper guillotine/trimmer will also work)
Glue
Step 1: Select Your Paper
Choose which bright stem wrapping paper sheets you want to use. For the example shown here I used all the different patterns available in the Bright Stem geometric pack. I've designed the patterns and colours in my packs all to work together whilst being as vibrant as possible so you can't really go wrong with whatever you choose, just remember to have some fun.
Step 2: Unfold, Refold and Measure
Unfold the sheets of wrapping paper you are using and then re fold them, so the plain white side is showing. Now place the ruler down the length of the folded wrap on the left-hand side and make a mark every 2cm. Do this again on the right side.
Step 3: Cut the Strips
Using your knife and ruler, carefully cut the wrapping paper into strips of equal 2cm width. using the pencil marks as a guide. Then unfold your strips and cut them on the folds. This should make strips roughly 2x17cm, but they don't have to be too precise.
If you don't have a scalpel or craft knife you could just use a pair of scissors. Using scissors will take longer as you might not be able to cut through as many layers of paper at once. It can also be harder to get straight lines. Equally if you're doing a large paper chain project, I would recommend using a paper guillotine/trimmer as that will be even quicker than using a scalpel knife.
Step 4: Create the Chain
Take one strip of paper and form a circle by bringing the ends together and securing them with glue. Then, take another strip, thread it through the first circle, and repeat the process to create a linked chain. Keep adding more circles until you've reached your desired length.
Step 5: Hang and Enjoy!
Once you've crafted your colourful paper chain, find the perfect spot to showcase your handiwork. Whether it's adorning a mantelpiece, winding along a staircase, or framing a doorway, your DIY creation is sure to brighten up any space and spread joy to all who see it.
Embrace your inner creative
Remember, the joy of crafting lies in the process, so don't be afraid to get creative and make this paper chain your own. Equally if you find some inspiration from this but take it in a different direction then brilliant! I used some of the left-over strips from my paper chain to start the abstract sculpture shown below. So, there’s really no limits to what you can do just make sure you have some fun!
Decoration, craft, DIY, upcycle, retro, fun, colorful, birthdays, celebration
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