Transform your holiday décor with a chic, easy-to-make Christmas paper chain crafted from leftover wallpaper and colored paper. This DIY garland blends nostalgic charm with a modern, polished look and is an affordable way to refresh your tree, mantel, or table. Using materials you already have on hand, you can create a custom decoration that feels both personal and stylish.
This updated version of a childhood craft is surprisingly elegant. I had a stack of leftover wallpaper from my guest bedroom and decided to turn it into a paper chain garland. I brought back the simple ring technique we all used as kids, elevated it with complementary craft paper, and the results were better than I expected.
The wallpaper alone looked lovely, but backing it with colored craft paper added depth and contrast. I chose blue and green backing sheets and alternated the inner colors of the rings as I assembled the chain. That small change made a big difference and gave the garland a refined, cohesive appearance.
I originally planned to make a single short strand, but once I started I loved it so much I made enough to wrap around my entire tree and to drape across the mantel. Making the chain was a fun activity to do with my mom—easy, relaxing, and rewarding—and the finished garland is unique and perfectly matched to my decor.
Why You’ll Enjoy This Project
- Elevates a childhood craft into elegant holiday décor. Using wallpaper and colored paper turns a familiar activity into a stylish, custom garland that complements modern seasonal themes.
- Repurposes leftover materials. This project is budget-friendly and eco-conscious—perfect for turning wallpaper scraps into something beautiful instead of throwing them away.
- Accessible for all skill levels. With basic tools like a glue stick and hot glue gun, anyone can make a striking garland. It’s also a great group activity for family and friends.
- Highly versatile. Drape the chain on a tree, mantel, banister, or use it as table décor. The size, colors, and pattern can be adapted to suit any space or theme.
Materials
Gather these simple supplies before you begin:
- Leftover wallpaper – Decorative scraps add texture and pattern to the garland.
- Colored craft paper – Use contrasting or complementary colors for backing.
- Glue stick – For adhering the craft paper to the wallpaper.
- Paper cutter or rotary cutter, clear ruler, and cutting mat – For accurate, even strips.
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks – For quick, secure assembly of each ring.
How to Make
Follow these straightforward steps to create your paper chain garland:
- Glue the colored craft paper to the back of the wallpaper using a glue stick. Smooth the sheets together and place a few books on top while they dry to ensure a strong bond.
- Cut strips approximately 8.5 inches long by 1 inch wide. A paper cutter or a rotary cutter with a clear ruler and cutting mat works well for consistent strips.
- Apply a small amount of hot glue to the end of one strip on the wallpaper side, spread it to cover about 1/2 inch, then bend the strip into a ring with the wallpaper on the outside. Hold until the glue sets.
- Thread the next strip through the first ring, add hot glue to its end, and join the ends to form a second ring. The loops will sit perpendicular, creating the chain effect. Alternate backing colors as desired for a layered look.
- Repeat the process until the chain reaches your preferred length. When finished, hang the garland and enjoy.
The process is quick and satisfying, and the final garland looks custom-made for your home. I hung mine on the tree and across the mantel, and it tied the whole room together with a subtle, nature-inspired theme.
This handmade approach has made my holiday decorating more meaningful. If you enjoy crafting and want to cut back on store-bought decorations, this project is an easy, creative way to personalize your season. Get your glue gun ready and make a few strands to mix and match with your existing décor.
More Handmade Christmas Decor You May Enjoy
- Clay Christmas ornaments you shape and paint at home
- Vintage bobbin garlands for a rustic touch
- Embroidery hoop ornaments for a textile-based accent
- A playful marshmallow wreath for a whimsical display
- Abstract holiday gift tags to elevate wrapped presents
- Paper star garlands to coordinate with a paper chain
Whether you craft alone or turn this into a group project, these handmade garlands and ornaments can become cherished holiday traditions. Enjoy the process, play festive music, and create decorations that reflect your style. Happy crafting!
DIY Paper Chain
Materials
- leftover wallpaper
- colored craft paper
- glue stick
- paper cutter or rotary cutter, clear ruler, and cutting mat
- hot glue gun
- hot glue sticks
Instructions
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Glue the colored paper to the back of the wallpaper with a glue stick and press under books while drying.
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Cut strips roughly 8.5 inches by 1 inch using a paper cutter or rotary cutter and ruler.
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Apply hot glue to one end of a strip on the wallpaper side, bend to form a ring, and hold until set.
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Thread the next strip through the ring, glue its ends, and form the next loop. Alternate backing colors for contrast.
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Repeat until the garland reaches the desired length, then hang and enjoy.