I crafted this easy DIY paper garland using paper bags and packaging paper. With plenty of leftover paper from our Amazon deliveries, I decided to create a DIY paper leaf garland perfect for fall. The large leaves mean fewer cuts, making it a quick and simple project. Attach the leaves to real branches for a beautiful fall mantel decoration.
If you’re in the mood to add some seasonal charm to your home without spending much. Try making your own paper leaf garland, it’s a super fun and easy DIY project. Plus you can get creative with different designs to match your style. It’s a great way to add a personal touch to your decor!
I’ve always loved crafting paper leaves, whether it’s for a wreath or garland. It’s a fun and affordable way to bring that cozy autumn vibe into our home.
This project has been on my crafting bucket list for a while, and I’m thrilled to have finally tackled it this week.
My husband loves how it turned out, though he couldn’t resist joking that the big leaves make him feel like he’s in a “Borrowers” kids’ book. He always has some witty comments about my projects!
Despite his humor, we’re both pleased with how quickly our living room transformed into a cozy fall space.
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Things To Add To A Garland
- Wool Balls and Acorn Caps
- Twinkle Lights
- Pinecones
- Dried Orange Slices
- Knitted Mini Pumpkins
- Velvet Bows
- Cinnamon Sticks
- Faux Berries
Easy Paper Garland DIY
Supplies You’ll Need for This Paper Craft
Real Branches: These add a natural touch and serve as the base for attaching your paper leaves, enhancing the garland’s overall rustic look.
Packaging Paper or Paper Bags: Paper is the primary material used to create the leaves. For an eco-friendly option, recycle paper from packages or bags. If you don’t have paper around the house, you can buy it here.
Leaf Templates: These help you create uniform leaf shapes. You can print or draw your own. Fill out the form below to receive your free Leaf Templates.
Pencil: Used to trace the leaf templates onto the paper.
Scissors: Essential for cutting out the leaves from the traced paper.
Glue Gun: Used to attach the leaves to the branches or wire, ensuring they stay in place.
Wire: This provides structure to the garland and makes it easy to shape and hang.
Command Hooks: These are the best helpers for any craft or home decor project.
How to Make a Paper Garland
Step 1 – Print Out Leaf Template
Download my leaf template and print it out. I’ve included both a large and small leaf design for you to use.
Step 2 – Trace the Templates
Place the leaf templates on your packaging paper or paper bags and trace around it with a pencil. I cut a few leaves at a time by layering my papers. Repeat this for as many leaves as you need. I cut about 70 or so paper bag leaves
Step 3 – Cut Out the Leaves
Using scissors, carefully cut out the traced leaves from the paper. The larger the leaves, the fewer you’ll need to cut.
Step 4 – Prepare and Shape Branches
If you’re using natural branches, clean them up by removing any loose bark or small twigs. If needed, trim them to your desired length.
Before adding your leaves, arrange the branches or wire into the desired garland shape. You can twist the wire to create a more defined structure or drape the branches across your mantel. I used Temporary Command Hooks to secure the branches with wire. Before I did that, they tumbled down when my husband walked by the mantel. He’s a bit of a klutz, so I always have to make sure my projects are firmly fastened and immovable.
Step 5 – Attach the Leaves
Heat your glue gun and apply a small amount of glue to the base of each paper leaf. Attach the leaves to your branches, pressing them firmly to secure them. I used some of my smaller leaves for the tips of the branches. Once you have the garland complete add whatever fun seasonal accents. I added a wool ball garland to my mantel.
I love any project that has paper leaves. Here are some that might interest you!
The best part about this project is how budget-friendly it is. You can collect branches from your yard or a nearby park and use recycled butcher paper or paper bags. It’s that easy! The result is stunning, and the leaf garland adds a beautiful fall touch to any home.
Make sure to check out my friend’s fall decor ideas below!
Happy Fall!
Blogger’s Best Fall Decor Ideas
Touches of Fall at Home | Craftberry Bush
Simple ways to add little fall touches at home.
Beautiful Fall Decor Starts at the Front Door | Most Lovely Things
When I start to think of fall decorating, my mind immediately goes to deocrating the porch and front door for trick-or-treaters!
Fall Decor Ideas for the Kitchen | My 100 Year Old Home
Fall is a magical time when the air turns crisp, and nature’s palette shifts to warm, rich hues. So why not add light touches and fall decor ideas to your kitchen?
Creative Fall Décor Ideas to Transform Your Home | My Sweet Savannah
Discover stylish and cozy fall décor ideas to transform your home this autumn. From warm color palettes to seasonal accents, find inspiration to embrace the beauty of fall in every room.
Cozy Fall Home Ideas | Tatertots and Jello
Simple ways to create a cozy home for fall, with links to DIY ideas, decor, soft textures, and seasonal accents that will instantly add warmth and comfort to your home.
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Annie Diamond
Janine! I love how approachable this is… using Kraft paper bags… it’s so pretty!!!