Making a paper chain with ribbon is a fun and slightly fancier take on the classic paper chain! It’s faster than using paper because you only have to cut the length of the ribbon. And the best part- you can store it with your holiday decor and use it year after year! The paper ones are cute, but don’t store well. Here’s how to make a ribbon chain garland.

how to make a ribbon chain garland

SUPPLIES

Ribbon I used 15 colors in the 1.5″ size- pink, quartz pink, pale pink, light coral, soft peach, dandelion, lemon, baby maize, key lime, sea green, light aqua, aqua, sky blue, light blue, wisteria, and lavender
Scissors
Hot glue gun and Hot glue sticks
Measuring Tape (optional, for consistent lengths)
Gaffer’s Tape (to hang the ribbon chain garland)

step 1- cut the ribbon

Start by Cutting the Ribbon

Measure and cut the ribbon into equal lengths. A good length for a paper chain is about 8-11 inches, but you can adjust based on your preferred loop size. I cut each of my ribbons to 8″ long.
I put the Measuring Tape on the table with it pulled out to the 8″ mark. Then I used Scissors to cut the ribbons to the right length.

step 2- create the chain

Next, Create the Chain

Create the First Loop
- Take one piece of ribbon, form it into a loop, and secure the ends together using hot glue. Make sure the ends overlap slightly for a clean finish.

Add the Next Loop
- Slide a new piece of ribbon through the first loop. Form a loop with the new piece and secure the ends together.

Continue the Chain
- Repeat this process, linking each new piece of ribbon through the previous loop until your chain is the desired length. This takes a few house to do and is a great activity to do while watching a movie!

step 3- hang the chain

And now, hang the ribbon chain garland

Choose the Hanging Spot
- Decide where you want to hang the chain (e.g., from the center of the ceiling, along the edges, or draped). Clean the area with a dry cloth to ensure the tape sticks well.
Cut and Prepare the Tape
- Use a tape that’s strong enough to hold the chain. I suggest using Gaffer’s Tape. Cut strips about 2-3 inches long for better adhesion.

Attach the Chain
- At one end of the chain, press the loop flat against the ceiling. Cover it with a piece of tape, ensuring the tape extends beyond the loop’s edges for a firm hold.

Space Out Attachments
- For a draped look, tape the chain at multiple points along its length. For straight hanging, secure it only at both ends or in sections if it’s very long.

after

And here is the finished ribbon chain garland!

I love how it immediately feels like a party in here!

My ceiling is so boring, but I love how this makes it feel festive while elongating the room.

I think the rainbow colors turned out so well.

I love how it works perfectly in the room!

price breakdown

I used ribbon I had on hand from my Rainbow Tree Skirt so this was a free project for me! Having to buy all the ribbon for this would be expensive with all the colors used. But having a solid or a ribbon chain garland with two colors would look great too and cut down on the ribbon expense.

In conclusion, isn’t this such a festive touch?! I could see adding snowflakes or stars to even embellish this more! This ribbon chain works great as a garland for Christmas trees, mantels, or party decorations. It’s simple to make and is the perfect holiday craft. Would you try creating this?