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When they finally appeared, many people thought they were unnecessary, impractical and even scandalous
Designer Jennie Jones has come up with a cunning way to recapture the pleasure of making paper chains, without having lots of messy paper and glue to clear up afterwards.
This is such a simple project that it could even be sewn by hand, making it an ideal holiday project for the kids. But what’s best is that they’ll last for years to come!
Designer Jennie says, “Using OHP paper for these cute little paper chains means they can be reused time and time again. They hold their shape and can be bent into different shapes. But if you prefer, you can easily use card, paper, interfacing or wadding instead.”
If you use OHP paper, a thin, transparent, flexible material often made from acetate, then the chains can be hung outside without risking damage from wind, rain or snow.
Read on to learn how to make fabric paper chains to decorate your home this Christmas!
How to make fabric paper chains
You will need
- Two fat quarters – we used festive fabrics from Purple Stitches
- Velcro: 2cm (3⁄4in) width, see instructions for details
- Card or OHP paper
- Basic sewing kit
Step one
Cut your fabric into 23×7.5cm (9x3in) strips and your OHP paper or card into 20x3cm (8×11⁄4in) strips, making as many as you like.
Step two
Pin a 3cm (11⁄4in) velcro piece to the opposite corners of your fabric strip (hook one end and loop the other), 5mm (1⁄4in) from the edges on the right side (RS). Sew the velcro into place.
Step three
Fold the strip in half lengthways, RS facing, and pin all edges.
Step four
Sew along the edges using a 1.5cm (5⁄8in) seam allowance, leaving one of the short ends open. Turn RS out and press, then press the open end under.
Looking for more Christmas sewing inspiration?
You could also learn how to make a Christmas stocking or follow our tutorial and find out how to sew your own Advent calendar stockings.
Step five
Feed in the strip of OHP to the end of the fabric tube.
Step six
Sew the end of the strip closed.
Step seven
Repeat to make as many times as desired, then arrange in chains by sticking together with the velcro, then looping through each other.
Alternate fabrics for your paper chains and hang them throughout your home.
Turn your scrap fabrics into festive decor
These fun fabric paper chains make a brilliant stash-buster project. Use scraps leftover from your fashion projects or hit the charity shops for recycled materials. This way, Christmas can be handmade and eco-friendly!
If you make Jennie’s festive paper chains, then tag us in a picture on Instagram using #gatheredmakers.
Start sewing your Christmas gifts
We’ve put together some festive articles to help you get ready for December! If you’re looking for last-minute gift ideas, take a look at our 25 quick gifts to sew when you’re short of time.
