Paper chains are a fun, easy, and creative way for people of all ages to express themselves artistically.
A paper link chain can be made from all kinds of materials, including construction paper, poster board, and even recycled newspaper.
With a few simple supplies like scissors and tape, you can create colorful and unique designs.
Whether you’re an experienced artist looking for something new to try or a beginner wanting to explore the world of art, paper chains provide a unique outlet for personal expression.
Let’s take a look at how you can make your own paper chains!
What Are Paper Chains?
Paper chains are made by cutting strips of paper, and for this paper art form you link them together, often with tape or glue.
The size of the strips will depend on the type of paper you are using and the size of the chain that you want to make.
Some popular paper choices include construction paper, printer paper, poster board, scrapbook paper, and old newspapers.
You can get creative by using different colors and patterns of paper to create a unique look.
You can also use items like markers and crayons to add interest and texture to the paper strips.
Once all the strips have been linked together, the paper chain can be hung or draped in different ways to create a display.
This makes paper chains perfect for adding a unique and creative touch to any room in your home.
Types of Paper Chains
There are many different styles and techniques of making paper chains.
Some popular ones include the basic looped chain, zigzag chain, and the spiral chain.
You can even make chains of hearts, people, or other shapes.
If you are making heart chains or chains of people, you may need to use a template or pattern as a guide.
The possibilities are endless!
The looped paper chain is the most common and simplest of them all.
It involves linking strips together to create a continuous loop.
The zigzag paper chain is created by linking strips together in an alternating pattern that creates a wavy look.
The spiral paper chain involves wrapping the strips around one another to create a spiraled effect.
No matter which type of paper chain you decide to make, the result will be a beautiful, custom-made decoration that you can proudly display in your home.
Uses of Paper Chains
Paper chains aren’t just for decorations—they can be used for a variety of creative projects.
For example, you can use them to create decorations for a birthday party or special event.
You can attach the links together to create a unique style, a necklace, a ring, bracelets, a crown, or other accessories.
You can also use them to make educational materials, like paper chains that represent fractions, measure distance, or other math concepts.
Paper chains can also be used to create bulletin boards, banners, and wall art.
They're also great for countdowns (like to a birthday or special day), as each link of the chain can be removed as the event gets closer.
Some people sell paper chains to spread a message, while others pursue selling chains to support the community at an optional price or donation.
There are so many ways you can use paper chains to make your space more creative and fun.
Getting Started with Paper Chains
Making paper chains is not as difficult as it may seem.
It’s a great activity for anyone, regardless of their experience level.
The basic steps for making paper chains are outlined below, but you can find a variety of project ideas online, so feel free to explore loading a template with a nice review.
The first step in creating paper chains is deciding what kind of paper you want to use.
You can use colorful construction or origami paper, plain copy paper, newspaper print, or even magazine pages.
You could also use scrapbooking supplies, such as stickers or die-cuts, if you want to add some extra flair.
Whatever type of paper you choose will determine how your final product looks.
Gather the rest of your supplies, so you can get started.
You will need scissors or a paper cutter, tape or glue, and the paper of your choice.
Making Your Paper Link Chain
Once you have chosen the type of paper you want to use, it’s time to start cutting out strips.
The size of the strips should be determined by the size of the chain links you want your finished product to be.
For example, if you want small chain links, then cut out short strips; if you want large links, then cut out longer strips.
If you want narrow chain links, you should cut thin paper strips, but if you want wide links, make sure you increase the width of your strips.
It’s important that all the strips are the same width (or as close as you can get them to be), so that they fit together properly when linked together into a chain.
It can be helpful to use a paper cutter if you have one, as this allows for more precise and even cuts.
Now that your strips are ready, it’s time to assemble them into chain links.
This part is actually quite simple—you just need to loop one end of each strip through the opposite end and secure it with glue or tape.
Once this is done for all your strips, simply link them together in a continuous circle until your desired length is reached and voila!
You now have yourself a delightful paper chain!
Tips for Making Paper Chains
While the process of making paper chains is straightforward and simple, there are tips to help make it even easier.
For instance, if you want to make a large paper chain, it can be helpful to have an extra pair of hands at the ready.
You can also use clothespins to hold the strips together while you link them, making it much easier to secure the ends.
Consider the theme of the space of where you will put your paper chains and choose a paper color that matches.
Using double-sided tape or glue when assembling the chain links will help ensure a more secure bond.
If you want to make a patterned paper chain, stagger the colors of your strips as you link them together.
This will help create a visually pleasing chain that will stand out.
Finally, have fun and don’t be afraid to experiment with different shapes, sizes, and color schemes.
These tips and tricks can help make the process of making paper chains much easier and enjoyable.
So, go ahead and give it a try—you’ll be amazed at what you can create!
Creating Paper Chains
Paper chains offer an easy way for all types of creators to express themselves creatively without having any prior experience necessary.
All that’s needed is some colorful paper and scissors, then let your imagination run wild!
Whether used as wall decorations or festive holiday decorations, these charming handmade works of art are sure to bring joy wherever they go!
So, what are you waiting for?
Get out the scissors, tape, and paper and start making beautifully designed paper link chains, watching as they come alive from your own hands!
Want to see an easy way of creating paper chains? Check out RJ Creations' video!
Simon Says Stamp also demonstrates how to create a paper chain crown!
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