Freshen up your decor with a handmade paper triangle bunting banner. This simple tutorial is perfect for using up scrapbook paper and adding instant cheer to any room.
If you still have a stash of scrapbook paper tucked away from a past craft phase, this is a perfect quick project to revive those patterns. A DIY paper triangle bunting banner is fast to make, highly customizable, and a great way to bring seasonal color or a festive touch to any space. With basic supplies you already have, you can create a charming banner in about 10 minutes.
Supplies You’ll Need for this DIY Paper Bunting
Note: choose coordinated patterned paper for the best visual impact.
- Patterned scrapbook paper (12″ x 12″ sheets)
- String, jute, or baker’s twine
- Ruler and pencil
- Scissors or a paper cutter
- Glue stick
How to Make a Paper Triangle Bunting — Step by Step
This step-by-step guide will walk you through cutting, folding, and assembling a simple triangle bunting.
Step 1: Cut the Paper into Strips
Start with 12″ x 12″ scrapbook paper. Cut each sheet into three strips that are 4 inches wide. For a six-foot banner, you’ll need roughly 12–15 triangles, which translates to about 4–5 sheets of paper depending on how many patterns you want to include.
Step 2: Fold and Mark the Triangles
Fold each strip in half with the patterned sides facing each other so the pattern remains on the inside. To lay out triangle guides, mark the top edge every 2 inches starting at 0, and mark the bottom edge every 2 inches starting at 1. This staggered marking produces the diagonal cuts needed for pointed triangles. Fold and mark up to three strips together to speed the process.
Optional tip: make a cardstock template of one triangle and trace it onto folded strips for consistent shapes when producing several banners.
Step 3: Cut the Triangles
Using the markings as guides, cut along the lines to form triangles. If you traced a template onto folded paper, be careful not to cut through the top fold that holds the triangle together until you’re ready to open it.
Step 4: Add the String
Measure the string to your desired finished length and lay it flat. Fold each triangle over the string with the fold at the top so the patterned sides face outward when open. Apply glue stick to the inside flap and press to seal. Arrange the triangles along the string in the pattern and spacing you like.
Step 5: Hang It Up
Tie small loops at each end of the string for easy hanging. For a casual swag, drape the banner over shelf brackets or furniture and secure the center with a small piece of tape to create a gentle curve.
Use Your Paper Bunting for Celebrations
Paper bunting banners are versatile and joyful. They work beautifully for many occasions and décor ideas:
- Decorate the front of a gift or dessert table for a bridal shower or baby shower.
- Drape a banner over a serving cart or party table to add instant color.
- Hang a brightly colored banner in a window or over a dresser for a seasonal vignette.
- Use vintage book pages for a farmhouse look—these can be hung on a mantel, in a window, or even on a tree for a unique holiday accent.
- Add letters to the front of each triangle to spell a short message, greeting, or name for entryway decor.
Other Creative Ways to Use Scrapbook Paper
Scrapbook paper is an affordable and flexible decor material. Beyond bunting, consider these ideas to refresh your space with patterned paper:
- Turn printables into iron-on transfers for quick seasonal throw pillows.
- Create paper-covered books to form a coordinated shelf display.
- Make paper placemats or a paper table runner for a festive table setting.
- Craft simple paper feathers or paper flowers to fill a vase or add to a wreath.
- Line shelf or drawer bottoms with patterned paper for a pretty hidden detail.
- Use paper confetti for party decor or to add a finishing touch to gift wrapping.
- Frame patterned paper or assemble paper collages to create inexpensive DIY wall art.
Quick Reference: Materials & Simple Instructions
- Materials: patterned paper (12″ x 12″), string or twine, ruler, pencil, scissors or cutter, glue stick.
- Quick steps: cut sheets into three 4″ strips, fold strips in half (pattern inside), mark top edge every 2″ and bottom edge offset by 1″, cut triangles, fold triangles over string and glue, hang.
This easy DIY paper triangle bunting banner is a fast, low-cost way to brighten a home or party space. Keep your supplies handy and you can swap patterns seasonally for fresh, new vignettes year-round.
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