Paper Garland Tutorial

(View this tutorial in the Spring issue of Romantic Country)
Although some might consider it a sacrilege to tear apart books, we did just that to make our window valances.   It may not be politically correct but, trust me, these were books headed to recycling bin.  Our valances were a hit when friends would visit so we began making paper garlands that we offer in our shop.   It's such an easy project!  The hardest thing is finding a place to sit after you crumple all the pages.  

Step 1:  Select your Books.  The number of books you'll use will depend on the size you want the garland to be and what types of books you are working with.  Paperback books are a nice size for smaller garlands, like for draping over a mirror or a doorway.  Hardback books have thicker heavier pages that are good for larger garlands, like for window treatments for a fireplace mantle.  Vintage books have yellowed pages that are lovely against a white backdrop and most resale shops have an inexpensive selection of used books.  But they can be brittle and may fall to pieces when crumpled.  You should do a test on one or two pages before tearing all the pages out of the book.  Newer books are easier to work with and can be purchased at the dollar store.  You can always age the edges of newer books using a damp tea bag.   No matter the books you choose you should plan to use about 400-500 pages for a 4 footgarland and about 800 pages for an 8 foot garland.

Step 2:  After you've torn the pages out of your book (take them completely off the binding so you have individual pages), then taking small sections fold the pages in half and cut about a 1" slit in the center of the pages.  Be sure to do this step before crumpling the pages.  It's easier to cut a few pages at a time when they are not crumpled up.

Step 3:  Loosely crumple your pages - individually.  Believe me, trying to separate groups of crumpled pages without tearing them is not fun.

We incorporate the kids' help, put in a movie and let the paper fly.  

Step 4:  Un-crumple the pages.  I know, like you couldn't have guessed, right?!

Step 5:  Cut a length of twine as long as you want your garland, adding about a foot.  Then tie a large looping knot in one end.

Step 6:  Begin stringing the twine through the holes in the pages. 

When the garland is the length and fullness that you want, tie the other end with the same looping type knot.  Use the loops for hanging your garland.  You can add ribbons or lace if you like.

If you're the kind of person that's always looking for a fun crafty project, you've got to hop over to RandomTutorial!     It's a new site that directs you to simply click a red button and each time you do, it brings up a tutorial of a project from within the blogging community (you can search for specific projects if you want too but I personally like the little red button!). Seriously, you might be there all day so bring sustenance.

And don't forget to check out all the great handmade items at French Cupboard!