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Turn paper box chains into a stunning wreath with this easy tutorial! This paper wreath is perfect for beginners or experienced crafters.
Looking for a fun and easy craft project that turns paper scraps into something beautiful?
This step-by-step tutorial will show you how to make a stunning wreath using paper box chains. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just getting started, this project is simple, creative, and perfect for any season.
Grab your supplies, and turn those paper scraps into a beautiful handmade wreath!
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Supplies List
Some links may be to similar items when exact items couldn't be found online.
- Yellow, Red, Light Blue, Dusty Blue Cardstock
- 12-inch Bamboo Hoop
- Paper Trimmer
- Mini Clothespins (optional)
- Glue Dots or Hot Glue
- Scissors
Cut Paper
Cut each piece of paper into strips that are .5-inch wide using a paper cutter.
The number of strips needed depends on the size of the ring.
I cut 3-4, 8.5x11-inch sheets of 4 different colors.
Make Paper Box Chains
Start with two strips of paper at a 90º angle.
Fold the paper strip on the bottom over the other strip.
Now the other strip is on the bottom, so fold that strip on top.
Continue folding the strip over and over.
After a couple chains cut one of the strips about 3 inches shorter.
This will make the chain stronger when more strips are added.
Continue folding the box chain until the end of that shorter chain is reached.
Trim the end so it doesn't go past the chain, and then tuck a new strip behind that flap.
Then continue folding, and repeat when the next end is reached.
The chain needs to be really long, and I wrapped it around the hoop to figure out how long it should be.
Make long box chain strips with the other colors too.
Wrap the Wreath
This part is a little tricky but I promise it can be done.
Lay the chains next to each other and grab the ends and the hoop with one hand.
Wrap the chains around the hoop with the other hand, keeping the colors in the same order.
Keep wrapping until the chains meet.
Glue Ends Together
Continue wrapping the chains around the ring til it is completely covered with the box chains.
Find where the chains will come together and hold them temporarily with a mini clothespin.
Secure all 4 strips before attaching them to ensure they are connected correctly.
Cut excess paper chain as needed to keep the wrap nice and tight.
I don't have an exact method for attaching the ends of the chains together, I think I did it differently for each one.
Cut the excess chain and glue the ends with a glue dot or hot glue.
I used glue dots but I think hot glue will hold stronger.
Final Thoughts
The completed wreath looks so cool!
I chose more fall-inspired colors for my simple craft, but this could easily be made to fit any holiday or season.
Crafting Essentials
- The Cricut Cutting Machine is easily my favorite crafting tool. We use it in so many of our tutorials!
- These MakerX Crafting Tools are perfect for keeping in the craft room and are always ready when needed!
- This Fiskars Paper Trimmer is easy to use and cuts nicely without frayed edges.
- These Scotch Precision Scissors cut like a dream, and you get multiple pairs in a pack!
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Toqua's Crafts
That is SUPER cute!! I too like fall colors. I think they are my favorites. Thank you for sharing!
Lisa @ Flour Me With Love
What a creative and cute idea! Thanks so much for sharing 🙂
Mel@Mellywood's Mansion
That looks amazing really effective way to add color and texture by from make the scene Monday
Cathy
I love this wreath - so ingenious. Think I will definitely have to try it. I have the Cricut and the pens but haven't really utilized them. Think maybe I will have to dust them off and try them out. Thanks for sharing. Stopping by from Snap.....
Gina @ MoneywiseMoms
Really cute! I love seeing wreaths that are a little different than traditional. I'll check out Michele's tutorial.
Jenna
I used to make those paper chains all the time from the perforated edges of print-outs from a Dot Matrix printer (remember those?) but I would have never thought to make a wreath from them! Love it!
Hey Mommy, Chocolate Milk
This is soooo cute! I would love if you added this to my link-up!
Kathe
So pretty! I could see making these wreaths for all seasons and holiday by just changing out the colors! Thanks for sharing at the party this week! I've also featured this on my Facebook page 🙂
Robin @ FlusterBuster.com
I absolutely love the fall colors. What a good idea! I can think of so many different applications for this process.
Tonna @ Navy Wifey Peters
Cool wreath!
Claiming Our Space
I love this wreath. The texture is great and so unexpected. Thanks so much for sharing on Tout It Tuesday! Hope to see you next week.
[email protected]
Love this!!
Natalie B.
So cute, love this idea!
Thanks for sharing over on Tutorial Thursdays, much appreciated.
x
Natalie
Hey Mommy, Chocolate Milk
Love it! Thanks for sharing at Mom's Library!
[email protected]
I've been making chains out of gum wrappers for years. Maybe it's time for me to branch out and try real paper! So cute! I’ll be featuring this idea tomorrow on OneCreativeMommy.com. Be sure to stop by One Creative Weekend to grab a feature button.
Michele Cole
This wreath is really great! I love the colors and the texture.
Michelle's Tasty Creations
Katie,
This wreath is super cute and creative! I love the look of the accordian (?) style paper. Thanks so much for linking up to Creative Thursday. Can’t wait to see what you share this week! Have a wonderful week.
Michelle
Sarah
I love this wreath its so cool! I've featured you today at Pintastic Monday.
http://sarahdawndesigns.blogspot.com/2012/11/pintastic-monday-17.html#.UKpItqD4K3c
Tessa
Thanks for linking up at tessacotton! I've pinned your awesome wreath, I love how it can work for any season! I'd love it if you'd join with all your winter/holiday crafts at our new Christmas linky party!
http://tessacotton.blogspot.com/2012/12/christmas-linky-party.html
Summer Rumsey
Katie I love this! I need to make a wreath like this - probably for Christmas - thanks for linking up to my linky party!
aish
Loved it n tried it!! Thanks!!