Childhood Paper Chain Garland Gets a Ribbon Makeover
If you grew up making paper chain garlands from strips of construction paper and a bottle of paste glue, then you remember just how simple and fun that little Christmas craft could be. We draped them on trees, hung them in doorways, and brightened up classrooms with those colorful loops of childhood joy. I decided to give that old-fashioned idea a grown-up twist by swapping out the construction paper for glittered wired ribbon. The result is a sparkly, sturdy, oh-so-pretty version of the classic garland that feels nostalgic and completely fresh.))
The Inspo
This idea actually came from the Peppermint Parlor Christmas Tree by RAZ. That tree was created several years ago, but the garland on it immediately reminded me of the old paper chains we used to make as kids. It had that same sweet, simple look — just a little more grown up. Seeing it got the wheels turning, and I thought: why not try the same concept using ribbon instead of paper?
At the time, Trendy Tree had a ribbon that looked almost identical to the one on the RAZ tree, so I gave it a try. And even though this project started a few years ago, the technique still works beautifully today. All you need is a sparkly 1.5″ (or narrower) wired ribbon, a hot glue gun, and a little time — and you’ll end up with a glittery, reusable version of that classic paper chain garland.))
How to Make a Ribbon Paper Chain Garland
I used 1.5″ wired ribbon for this garland, but you can use a narrower width if you prefer. Wired ribbon works best because it keeps its shape and gives the chain more structure.
- Cut your ribbon into 10″ strips.
- Add hot glue near one end of the strip.
- Form a loop by securing the other end of the strip to the glued end.
- For the next strip, thread it through the first loop before gluing the ends together.
- Continue looping and gluing until your chain is as long as you like.
You can stick with one ribbon style for a uniform look, or alternate between different patterns and textures for a playful mix—just like when we used different colors of construction paper as kids.
Instead of colorful paper, though, this version sparkles with ribbon! ✨
👉 Watch the tutorial here:
(Fair warning—this video is a little old, so give me some grace! The technique still works just as well today.)
Not Just for Christmas 🎃✨
The same day I made the Christmas ribbon garland, I couldn’t resist playing around with some Halloween ribbon too. I used glittered ribbons in purple, copper, and lime—and it turned out so cute! Sadly, I don’t have a picture of that version, but just imagine those bold colors linked together in a sparkly chain. The beauty of this project is that you can adapt it to any season or holiday. Just switch up the ribbon styles, and you’ve got a brand-new look that’s every bit as nostalgic as the paper chains we made as kids.
Kids will love helping with this project, too—just keep in mind they’ll need adult assistance with the hot glue. Or, if you want to keep it simple, go the traditional route with paper chains using stick glue and scrapbook paper. And let me tell you, today’s scrapbook paper comes in so many colors and patterns—far prettier than the construction paper we had growing up!
Need Supplies?
Cordless Hot Glue Gun (Amazon)
More Ribbon Options Than Ever
When I first made this garland, I used 1.5″ ribbon, but now there are even more choices available. Trendy Tree has several 5/8″ and 7/8″ ribbons in stock that work beautifully for this project — especially the shimmer styles and the flat glitter ribbons that are non-shedding (a big bonus!). These narrower widths make the links daintier, more detailed, and even easier to glue. If you want to try this garland in a new color scheme or match a different tree theme, those smaller ribbons give you so many fun possibilities.
So grab some sparkly ribbon, a glue gun, and maybe even the kids—and start your own ribbon chain garland this weekend. It’s a simple, nostalgic craft that looks anything but ordinary!
Love the ribbon chains Jeannie! So beautiful with the red/white striped ribbon! Great idea to use ribbon! So many possibilities! Hope you are doing well!
Thank you Bonnie)) Doing great here, just trying to stay cool in this hot weather. Hope all is going well with you and your family))