DIY Paper Colored Pencil Garland

Supplies

Paper

  • Standard 8.5" × 11" copy paper or cardstock

  • Cut each sheet into 4 equal strips.

Tools

  • Stapler

  • Scissors or paper trimmer

  • Ruler

Color Tip

For the most realistic colored pencil, use two shades of the same color.

Example:

  • Light Blue = Colored Pencil Body

  • Dark Blue = Colored Pencil Tip

Using two shades creates a more realistic sharpened colored pencil effect.

Regular Strips

Cut all regular strips to:

2¾" × 8½"

Cut the following:

  • 3 Dark Color

  • 3 Black

  • 20 Light Color

  • 3 Black

  • 2 Dark Color

After these strips, begin creating the tapered pencil tip.

Tapered Pencil Tip

All tapered pieces use the dark-colored paper.

Piece 1

  • 2½" × 8½"

Piece 2

  • 2" × 7¼"

Piece 3

  • 1½" × 5½"

Piece 4

  • 1½" × 5½"

Piece 5

  • 1½" × 6½"

Piece 6

  • 1½" × 6½"

  • Staple this piece very tight to create the pointed pencil tip.

Assembly Order

  1. 3 Dark Color

  2. 3 Black

  3. 20 Light Color

  4. 3 Black

  5. 2 Dark Color

  6. Tapered Pieces 1–6

Helpful Tips

  • Paper Choice: Standard copy paper works great for this project. Cardstock can also be used if you prefer a sturdier garland.

  • Color Choice: Use a light and dark shade of the same color for the most realistic colored pencil effect.

  • Cut First: Cut all of your pieces before assembling.

  • Staple Placement: Staple each regular loop approximately ½ inch from the edge.

  • Create the Taper: As you reach the tapered pieces, gradually pull each loop a little tighter before stapling. The final piece should be stapled the tightest to create a realistic pointed pencil tip.

  • Measurements: These measurements are approximate. The goal is to gradually taper the strips toward the end to create the illusion of a sharpened colored pencil. Small variations in size will still produce a great result.

  • Customize the Length: Want a longer or shorter colored pencil? Simply add or remove strips from the 20 light-colored body strips while keeping the beginning sequence and tapered tip the same.

Share Your Creation!

I'd love to see your finished project! Tag @PoppinPartyDecor on Instagram or TikTok so I can see your colorful creations. 🎉