How to Make a Paper Fan Garland

I don’t know about you but I’m so happy garlands and buntings are back in fashion! Most are easy to make and add whimsical charm to any room. I’ve made a few so far but this is the first one I actually documented so I could share the tutorial. What’s great about this paper fan garland is that you can use a variety of paper so you’ll always be able to make one in just the right color.

I strung this book page paper fan garland across the mirror that rests atop my dining buffet.

I used remaining book pages from the Silver Chalice (I’d used its pages for some decoupage projects) since I knew the pages would blend well with my early fall decor. The paper fan garland was pretty easy to make and didn’t take much time.

Here are the instructions …

First, gather your supplies. Book pages (or other decorative paper), small buttons for the centers, Mod Podge, scissors, embroidery thread, and a needle is what you’ll need.

Cut your book pages to size. The wider the page, the larger the paper fan.

Fold your book pages (or other paper) accordion style, making sure folds are even in size. Cut off any excess if necessary.

Fold the accordion-style pages in half.

Using two strands of embroidery thread, tie two pages of folded paper together where you folded them in half. Knot well, and if desired, add a small dab of Mod Podge or other glue on the knot to keep it from becoming undone.

Glue the edges of the folded book pages together, making a complete fan circle once all edges are glued. I used Mod Podge but you could also use a hot glue gun.

Add a small button or other decorative element to the center of the paper fan. I used Mod Podge to glue the button to the center of the paper fan circle. Press down firmly to secure, but not too hard. You don’t want to smash the folded paper.

Attach the paper fan circles to a piece of vintage lace, seam binding, or even twine. You can use a hot glue gun to secure the paper fans, or use embroidery thread to carefully sew them in place.

This paper fan garland was so easy to make and didn’t take much time. I’ll be making more of these for the Christmas holiday with different embellishments. I might even add some glitter, just for fun.

While you’re thinking of decorating your home, be sure to enter the giveaway for 2 spots to the new e-course, Creatively Made Home {Home for the Holidays}.

Finally … don’t forget to stop by for the Seasons of Home – Autumn Edition tour next week. I’m joining 6 other bloggers from September 9-13th to share lots of fall decorating inspiration. Here’s the schedule …