Paper Chains: A Timeless Tradition

Paper chains channel a nostalgic feeling that meets the moment. Vintage Christmas decorations are making a major comeback, and now more than ever, home decorators are looking for budget-friendly holiday decor options.

The popular vintage, nostalgic look is what TikTok has dubbed the "Little Women aesthetic," after Greta Gerwig's 2019 modern period piece. (If you haven't seen it, we highly recommend!) We'd love to shop their sets for decorating inspiration—candlelit interiors, evergreen garlands, and the handmade DIY decorating look it seems everyone is craving right now.

The enduring charm of paper chains is in their simplicity. For the cost of the paper, you can fill your rooms with yards of splashy patterns, mixed or matched to your heart's content. They're easy to make, and fun for all ages. They're also sustainable: You can reuse paper scraps, wrapping paper, and even patterned paper grocery bags if you don't want to buy new paper. Plus, make a chain this year and you can reuse it for years.

Jacob Fox

Creative Ways to Decorate with Paper Chains

The decorating possibilities are endless. Replace the purchased, wire ribbon that wraps Christmas trees and use paper chain garlands instead. Or, drape chains on the mantel or above windows. Layer them with your evergreen garlands along railings or the banister or in your interior doorways.

You can also use a paper chain as a festive countdown for Christmas, removing one link each day to mark the time.

Jacob Fox

How to Make Paper Chains

Making paper chains could not be easier: Cut paper strips, create a loop, then secure it with tape or a stapler. But there are a few things you can do to elevate the look for a more polished effect.

Use double-sided paper: Double-sided scrapbook paper has a design on both sides. It has a sturdy weight that's heavier than mass produced wrapping paper. Plus, having loops with color or pattern inside each link makes it look extra special. If you shop for scrapbook papers, you can find foil, glitter, plaids, and endless colors and patterns to make the look personal.

Make clean cuts: For precise lines, an inexpensive paper cutter is brilliant. You can buy these at the craft store for under $20. It makes quick work of the job and you're sure to have clean lines.

Consider size before you cut: The width of your paper strips and how long the links are affects the finished look. Thinner links are old school. Today's paper chains are chunkier and made with wider cuts of paper, some up to 3 inches wide. The length of the strips will affect the finished look as well. Shorter loops of paper create rounder links, while longer lengths create oblong loops.

Attach the loops: To assemble the paper chain, fasten the paper into loops, interlocking the loops as you work. You can use a glue stick, tape, or even a stapler. For an invisible finish, use double-sided tape.

How to Store Paper Chains

These paper chains can be reused for years. When you're ready to take down your holiday decorating, place them loosely in a lidded plastic storage tub and tuck them away. A hard-sided tub or box that's kept in a humidity-controlled environment will protect the delicate papers for future use.