DIY: 3 Valentine’s Day Paper Chains Ideas
Paper chains are a classic decoration for a reason: they’re simple, festive, and incredibly adaptable. When Valentine’s Day rolls around, they’re an easy way to add pops of pink, red, and hearts to your home without buying anything new. (Great for your bank account and the Earth!) These Valentine’s Day paper chains are especially resourceful because they’re made entirely from paper. Something most of us already have on hand! I also love that they can be recycled once the holiday is over, so there is no need to store anything.
Below are three different Valentine’s Day paper chains you can make, each with a slightly different look and technique.
1. Toilet Paper Roll Heart Chain
Last year I made snowflakes out of paper toilet tubes and they were a huge hit. I felt inspired to use the same medium, toilet paper tubes, to make something for the Valentine’s Day season.
Start by cutting the roll into rings about 1/4 inch wide. Squish each ring into a heart shape by squishing it flat. Secure the bottom point by putting a dab of hot glue into the inside and holding it closed. Invert the top so the top point comes down as the divot, secure again with a small dab of hot glue.
Once you’ve made several hearts, connect them using small paper loops cut from scrap paper or construction paper. You will have to loop the paper loops into the hearts and then glue!
This version of Valentine’s Day paper chains looks especially charming draped across a mantel or window.
2. Double-Loop Paper Chain
This variation puts a twist on the traditional paper chain. Instead of using one loop per link, you’ll use two thinner strips of paper to form each section.
Cut your paper into long, narrow strips and overlap two loops at once before stapling or gluing them together. The result is a lighter, airier chain with extra movement. This style of Valentine’s Day paper chains works beautifully when you want something a little more delicate or just different, especially if you’re using patterned or recycled paper.
3. Sewn Paper Strip Chain
I saved the best for last. Who knew that you could put something other than fabric through a sewing machine!
For this version, cut paper into strips measuring about ¼ inch by 3 inches. Thread up your sewing machine with some scrap thread. (Have more scrap thread than you know what to do with? Check out my blog post here!)
Just simply run your machine and thread in the scrap pieces of paper. This technique creates a surprisingly sturdy chain and is a great way to use up small paper scraps. These Valentine’s Day paper chains feel more airy and modern. I love how they move in a light breeze! So they are perfect for archways or windows.
Why Paper Chains Are So Resourceful
All three of these Valentine’s Day paper chains rely on one simple material: paper. You can use scrap paper, card stock you have lying around, old magazines, junk mail, or toilet paper rolls, things that might otherwise be recycled.
When Valentine’s Day is over, you can take these decorations down and place them right back in the recycling bin, making this decor both low-waste, low-stress, and low storage!
