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From chic velvet loops to classic red and green, paper chains are back in a big way
It's official – this Christmas, people are getting crafty. From dried orange garlands to DIY paper stars, this year, the dream of having a homemade Christmas has taken over the internet. The standout trend from the lot? Paper chains.
That's right, paper chains are the go-to handmade Christmas trend of the season, with velvet ribbon paper chains in particular going viral on TikTok and Instagram. Sometimes colourful, sometimes classic (but always good fun), part of the appeal of these classic decorations is that they're just so easy to make. Cut up a few vibrant pieces of paper, grab an old Pritt Stick from the back of the cupboard, and voilà – that's your Christmas decorations sorted for the year.
'Handmaking paper chains adds a unique and sentimental touch to any home – you can make it in any colour you like which allows for real creativity,' says Whinnie Williams, interior designer and trends forecaster for Balsam Hill.
For some people reading this article, the idea of using a paper chain as a decoration might make you shudder. It could be an unwelcome throwback to your ninth birthday party, or that time your whole class had to make a giant paper chain during a Year 4 Art lesson. Let us put your mind at ease. Paper chains are not only versatile but, if done right, they can actually look incredibly chic.
We've scoured the internet and picked out some of our favourite examples. These people know how to do paper chains right. Prepare to be inspired.
Rest assured, your paper chains don't have to be the candy-coloured rainbow from your Year 4 Art class. Instead, choose deep greens and rich reds for a classic festive look. If you don't want your paper chains to become too overwhelming, avoid picking alternating colours. The key, here, is to keep the look simple and cohesive.
If you don't want your paper chains to dominate, consider weaving them into your garland. Add baubles, pine cones and twinkly lights for a mantelpiece that's bursting with Christmas spirit. Michael Wurm Jr. made his paper chains from leftover wallpaper – do you have any pretty paper scraps that could be put to good use?
When it comes to paper chains, one of the season's biggest trends has been making your links from velvet. This sumptuous material can add a touch of sophistication to your home, plus, the durability of the fabric means that it can last year on year.
A major trend we're noticing is hanging paper chains from the centre of your ceiling. It immediately lifts the gaze and brings a pleasing sense of harmony and balance.
For a simple but effective look, hang your paper chain garland across your bannister. Top them off with pretty velvet bows and surround them with paper stars for the full festive look. The key here is honing in on defined, repeatable colours. Melissa Richie has chosen burgundy, rich teals and dusky pinks for her banister.
Ola Zwolenik has been clever about her choices, picking up on the colours that are already in her home. Have a fabulous orange sofa in your living room? Make that shade your starting point for a paper chain design that truly shines!
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