Knowing how to make paper snowflakes is a must on the run up to Christmas. Because when you want to add more character to your Christmas decorating scheme, well, these are perfect.
And, if you want to refresh your memory on to make pretty paper decs because you actually haven't done it since you were at school and you are sure your crafting skills have probably improved by then? Well you are in the right place because we love the look of paper decorations, and love the nostalgia that comes with making them too. Our step by step guide is super easy, but actually you can't really go wrong with these so just grab some scissors, some paper (perhaps a cheeky Christmas cocktail) and let the creative juices flow.
Oh, and if your DIY goes terribly wrong, we have also included some of our fave paper decorations you can order online (we won't tell if you don't). And for more DIY Christmas decorations head over to our gallery.
You will need:
Step one: fold your paper
Start with a square piece of paper, fold it in half diagonally and then fold it in half again to create a smaller triangle. Then you want to fold the triangle into three. You can do this by taking one corner of the triangle and fold it into the middle, then take the other corner and fold it over the top.
Step two: plan your design
We say plan, the fun of this is you aren't sure how they are going to look when you open them out, but you are could take a pencil and draw on some shapes along the folds as a guide for when you getting cutting.
Step three: start cutting
You know the drill – get chopping along the folds to create the 'holes' in your snowflakes. The only essential cut you have to make to get the star shape is to cut the top of the triangle off at an angle
Step four: open up and hang
Now for the fun part, gently open up your triangle to reveal what you have created! Add a hole with a hole puncher and thread through some ribbon or string – you could use clear string for a really magical effect or string all your creations together to form a Christmas garland.
How do you stiffen paper snowflakes?
To stiffen paper snowflakes so that you can hang them more easily from your tree – not a must but it does give them a little more weight – you can make up a quick solution to paint on.
Simply mix equal parts cornstarch with white glue, and add a little water at room temperature. Combine completely and then paint your snowflakes and let them dry.
How do you decorate paper snowflakes?
This is easier to do when you've stiffened them a little but it can be done with plain paper snowflakes also. Try different acrylic paints for a solid pop of color or watercolors for a cool tie-dye effect perhaps. Glitter is a must of course and kids will love getting involved! We love this biodegradable craft glitter available from Amazon.
All of that sound a bit too much like hard work for you, just order some paper Christmas decorations from our pick below: