There’s something dangerously charming about tiny paper crafts.

You sit down thinking you’ll make one little bookmark, and suddenly there are fourteen scattered around the house in different colors because apparently every book now deserves accessories.

That’s exactly what happens with this origami heart bookmark.

It’s easy, low stress, ridiculously cute, and one of those projects that makes people immediately say, “WAIT. Show me how you made that.”

Which honestly is my favorite kind of craft.

I also love that these heart bookmarks are useful instead of just sitting around collecting dust. They slide right over the corner of a page with a little pocket in the back, so they actually stay put while looking adorable at the same time.

And yes, they’re perfect for Valentine’s Day.

You can tuck them into library books, add them to cards, surprise your mom with one inside a favorite novel, or make a pile for friends, teachers, and fellow book lovers. They’re especially fun for kids because decorating them is honestly half the fun.

The best part? You only need paper and a few minutes.

No hot glue gun.
No glitter explosion.
No crafting meltdown.

Just a simple fold-by-fold project that somehow turns a square piece of paper into a sweet little heart shape bookmark.

Honestly, origami feels a little magical every single time.

Choosing Paper for Heart Bookmarks

You can absolutely use regular origami paper for this project, but slightly thicker paper tends to hold up better if the bookmark gets moved in and out of books often.

The basic idea is simple: start with a square piece of paper and cut it in half to create a rectangle.

That rectangle shape matters because the ratio helps create the final design correctly. A 2:1 ratio works especially well for these bookmarks and keeps the finished project sturdy without feeling bulky.

My favorite size is 15 cm (6″ square) paper because it creates heart bookmarks that fit nicely over book corners without sliding around constantly.

And if you want to make them extra cute? Decorate them afterward. Add:

• stickers
• doodles
• funny faces
• Valentine’s Day sayings
• tiny messages
• markers
• conversation heart phrases

You can even personalize them with names or little notes before gifting them.

Honestly, once people realize how easy these are, they start making them constantly.

Why People Love This Bookmark

One of my favorite things about this origami heart bookmark is that it looks impressive without actually being difficult.

This isn’t one of those paper crafts requiring twelve hundred confusing diagrams and emotional resilience.

It’s beginner friendly.
It’s relaxing.
And the folding process is surprisingly satisfying.

You basically watch a flat rectangle slowly become a heart shape right in your hands.

Also, unlike some paper crafts, these actually get used.

They slip neatly over book corners, stay secure while reading, and make every book feel a little happier. They’re especially cute tucked inside romance novels, journals, planners, cookbooks, or favorite childhood stories.

And during Valentine’s Day? They’re honestly perfect.

You can pair them with candy, books, or handwritten notes for a sweet inexpensive gift that still feels thoughtful and personal.

Tips Before You Start

A few quick things help this project turn out cleaner:

• Make each fold carefully so the edges line up evenly.
• Press firmly or use a bone folder to create a sharp crease.
• Don’t use paper that’s overly thick or stiff.
• A square piece of paper creates the cleanest final result.
• Add stickers after finishing instead of during the folding process.

You can also experiment with patterned paper, metallic paper, or soft pastel shades depending on the occasion.

Personally, I love the classic red and pink versions for Valentine’s Day, but bright colors and playful patterns look adorable year-round too. Get started below!

Print

Origami Heart Bookmark

Learn how to make an origami heart bookmark in a matter of minutes! This is so easy, you'll want to make hundreds of them.

Course Crafts

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 1 heart

Cost $.25

Equipment

• Scissors

Ingredients

• Origami paper
• Clear tape
• Sharpie(s) optional

Instructions

• Fold the paper in half and then cut it along the fold. You will have two smaller, rectangular sheets of paper.
  
• Fold one of the rectangular piece of paper in half lengthwise (the top portion of the paper is open).
  
• Now fold the paper in half again.
  
• Open up the paper; you should see a fold in the middle.
  
• Fold up one side of the paper against the folded line.
  
• Repeat step 5 with the other side.
  
• Flip the paper over. Use a small piece of tape to hold both halves together.
  
• Fold down the top portions to start forming the top of the heart.
  
• Fold down the corners on either side of the top of the heart.
  
• Flip the paper over and the heart is complete. You can place over the corner of the page.
  

Video

You’ll find out that we love bookmarks around here! When you’re done trying this, check out our paint chip, cat, or confetti bookmarks. We’ve also got the following origami projects you should check out:

Bird • Boat • Butterfly • Cat • Crane • Cube • Frog • Lotus Flower • Star • Tulip

The post Origami Heart Bookmarks That Are Almost Too Cute to Use appeared first on DIY Candy.

Get ready to twist, bend, and create your way into the heart of the holiday season with the ultimate crafting MVP – pipe cleaners!

As the festive frenzy approaches, with its whirlwind of baking, shopping, and decking the halls, finding time for elaborate Christmas crafts can feel like trying to catch snowflakes with a net.

Enter the humble yet mighty pipe cleaner, a parent’s ticket to a winter crafting wonderland without the cleanup chaos.

Imagine a pile of colorful, sparkly, and oh-so-twisty pipe cleaners (or as the crafting elite call them, chenille stems) at your fingertips.

Your kids will create everything from dainty ornaments that twinkle to adorable tabletop decorations that make your guests go ‘Aww!’

While some of these ideas involve paint and glue, it’s minimal compared to lots of other kids’ crafts.

Whether you’re a seasoned crafter looking for a quick holiday fix or a busy parent seeking a sanity-saving activity, these pipe cleaner Christmas crafts are your holiday lifesaver.

I’ve scoured the North Pole (okay, maybe just the internet) to bring you over 30 delightful pipe cleaner craft ideas.

So, stock up on those standard, glittery, striped, textured, and extra-thick pipe cleaners, because we’re about to embark on a crafting journey that’s as colorful as it is creative.

Let’s make this Christmas a little more handmade, a little less messy, and a whole lot of fun. Your crafting adventure awaits!

Pipe Cleaner Tree Ornaments

1

www.theresourcefulmama.com

Elf Ornament

Kids will love creating this fun craft stick elf ornament to hang on the tree. I love the fun whimsical hats made from green pipe cleaners!

Get the Tutorial

2

diyshowoff.com

Christmas Tree Bells

I love the use of non-traditional holiday colors on these Christmas tree bell ornaments! They turned out great.

Get the Tutorial

3

wildolive.blogspot.com

Vintage Santa Ornament

Mollie made her own version of a vintage Santa ornament she keeps on her desk. Make one for yourself, and use the free printable faces she has included.

Get the Tutorial

4

artsycraftsymom.com

Vintage Christmas Tree

How about a white Christmas this year? These white pipe cleaners make it look like you have a snowy tree ornament!

Get the Tutorial

5

happierthanapiginmud.blogspot.com

Rudolph Ornament

Have a burned out night light bulb? Keep it to make this cute little reindeer with googly eyes and a pom pom nose!

Get the Tutorial

6

thistleandleaves

Teddy Bears

Wood beads and chenille stems come together to make these adorable little bear ornaments!

Get the Tutorial

7

www.cindyderosier.com

Mini Wreath

Fuzzy pipe cleaners are perfect for this wreath ornament! It has such great texture.

Get the Tutorial

8

www.doodlecraftblog.com

Pretty Pineapples

Tinsel (or sparkly) pipe cleaners are used to make these pineapple ornaments. There is also a wreath ornament tutorial provided.

Get the Tutorial

9

onelittleproject.com

Easy Angels

Using just one color pipe cleaner for this easy angel ornament is a great idea!

Get the Tutorial

10

happydealhappyday.com

Pipe Cleaner Icicle

Special sparkly gold pipe cleaners and a gem are used to create an icicle ornament for your Christmas tree!

Get the Tutorial

11

www.thegirlcreative.com

Jingle Bells

Add some jingle bells to your tree this year with these ornaments made using pipe cleaners!

Get the Tutorial

12

happyhooligans.ca

Crystal Icicles

Here is another icicle ornament idea. Find out how kids can make these crystal icicles using Borax!

Get the Tutorial

13

thiscraftyfamily.com

Sweet Lollipops

Twist and swirl your pipe cleaners together until you have some sweet lollipop ornaments!

Get the Tutorial

14

www.houseofhawthornes.com

Candy Canes

You can't have a list of Christmas pipe cleaner crafts without including candy canes! This is probably an ornament that is on everyone's tree—or has been in the past.

Get the Tutorial

Other Fun Pipe Cleaner Christmas Crafts

15

Wine Cork Reindeer

Make a wine cork reindeer with pipe cleaner antlers using this simple tutorial – perfect for turning into a Christmas ornament, decor, or for place settings.

Get the Tutorial

16

Howard Bjornson

Christmas Tree

Can you believe that this tree is made from pipe cleaners? It is even decorated with little ornaments; has wrapped gifts; and a little dog looking on!

Get the Tutorial

17

lovemaegan.com

Starburst Tree Topper

Add some extra sparkle to the top of your tree this year with this fab DIY mod starburst tree topper!

Get the Tutorial

18

www.triedandtrueblog.com

“Merry” Sign

Twist your red and white pipe cleaners together like candy canes to spell out “Merry” on this vintage-look Christmas sign.

Get the Tutorial

19

www.smilemercantile.com

Retro Sparkle Garland

Add some retro sparkle to your tree with this garland. Traditional pipe cleaners and mercury glass beads were used to achieve this retro 50's look!

Get the Tutorial

20

modpodgerocksblog.com

Poinsettia Canvas

This easy Christmas craft for kids will be a cute addition to your holiday decor! Families can make this poinsettia canvas together.

Get the Tutorial

21

www.createcraftlove.com

Sparkly Rosettes

Try a different look with your gift wrapped presents this year—pipe cleaner rosettes! Use the glittery chenille stems for a festive look.

Get the Tutorial

22

yourcozyhome.blogspot.com

Holiday Table Place Cards

Add a little candy cane monogram to each place setting so each guest knows where to sit!

Get the Tutorial

23

poppytalk.com

Wire Word Garland

In addition to this gold pipe cleaner script font C’est Noel, Jan made garland for her tree that says “Chestnuts roasting on an open fire.” Go check it out!

Get the Tutorial

24

AZNdude

Charlie Brown’s Christmas Tree

Watch A Charlie Brown Christmas as a family and then make your own version of his tree using pipe cleaners and a coat hanger.

Get the Tutorial

25

www.cleanandscentsible.com

Reindeer Treats

These treat bags full of M&Ms are perfect for the kid's holiday table! Or, they would make great neighbor gifts.

Get the Tutorial

26

www.teach-me-mommy.com

Christmas Cards

Get the kids involved in sending Christmas cards this year with these pipe cleaner and pom-pom cards.

Get the Tutorial

27

twokidsandacoupon.com

Christmas Trees

Have the kids get into holiday decorating by making these cute pipe cleaner and pom-pom trees. Display them all together or spread them around the house for everyone to find.

Get the Tutorial

28

kidscraftroom.com

Pencil Toppers

Learn how to make Christmas tree and Rudolph pencil toppers. Add them to the top of your gifts, or remove them and use them as finger puppets!

Get the Tutorial

29

www.thecrafttrain.com

Reindeer Pasta Sculptures

Who knew that reindeer had pipe cleaner bones and pasta fur? It surprised me too! Look how cute those lips are. Love it!

Get the Tutorial

If you liked these Christmas projects with pipe cleaners, you should definitely check out these other popular holiday posts:

Christmas Perler Beads • Elf on the Shelf • Paper Crafts • Preschool Crafts • Star Crafts

The post Pipe Cleaner Christmas Crafts for a Festive Holiday appeared first on DIY Candy.

Ah, the great holiday debate: are gift cards the savior of last-minute shoppers everywhere or the impersonal choice of the uninspired?

I stand firmly on the side of gift card enthusiasts, especially during the festive hustle and bustle. Let’s face it, who wouldn’t love the freedom to choose their own gift?

But, before you accuse me of taking the easy way out, let me share a little secret that turns a gift card into a personalized treasure – DIY gift card holders!

Think about it: sure, a gift card is fantastic (hello, Starbucks!), but when it’s nestled inside a handcrafted holder, it’s like saying, “I thought of you twice!”

This is not about hiding the fact you’ve chosen a gift card; it’s about elevating it to a work of art. It’s the difference between handing someone a gift card loose and presenting it in a holder that screams, “I crafted this just for you!”

So, for all you gift card givers out there feeling a tad guilty, worry no more. I’ve put together a delightful collection of over 20 gift card holder ideas that are as fun to make as they are to give.

These aren’t your average holders; these are mini masterpieces, crafted with love and destined to bring a smile to even the most discerning of recipients.

So, are you ready to transform your gift card giving this Christmas? Are you prepared to be the person whose gift is remembered for that extra touch of thoughtfulness? Of course, you are!

Scroll down to explore these inspiring Christmas gift card holder ideas, and pick the one that speaks to your heart. You’ll be amazed at how something so simple can elevate your gift-giving game.

Let’s get crafty and spread some festive cheer, one beautifully presented gift card at a time!

1

Christmas Felt

To make gift card giving more fun this year, I made these felt gift card holders. There's a Santa, a snowman, and an elf! Aren't they cute?!

Get the Tutorial

2

Cindy Hopper

Bows & Stripes

Learn how to make the cutest gift card holder out of a sheet of scrapbook paper with your Cricut. If you like to give gift cards, this is going to be a go-to project. Those paper bows are so sweet!

Get the Tutorial

3

ChiWei Ranck

Crochet Snowman

This adorable snowman not only hugs the gift card, but its arms open up so you can take the card out!

Get the Tutorial

4

craftinomicon.blogspot.com

Recycled Magazines

For a gift card holder that’s absolutely free, use magazines and add other items in your stash as embellishments. There's even a free template if you like.

Get the Tutorial

5

www.designeatrepeat.com

Cute Succulent Printable Gift Card Holder

Know a plant lady who needs a special gift? This is perfect for her! You can add a gift card to Home Depot or her local garden center so she can get her fix.

Get the Printable

6

whilewearingheels.blogspot.com

Simple Sewing

Use your favorite holiday fabric along with snaps or velcro to make a festive card holder. The best part about these holders? They are reusable.

Get the Tutorial

7

leapoffaithcrafting.com

Coffee Cups

Grab a FREE coffee cup gift card holder template PDF to cut with scissors as well as the SVG file to cut out with a Cricut. Perfect coffee gift! And who doesn't love a cup of joe for a present?

Get the Tutorial

8

Cindy Hopper

DIY Origami Gift Card Holder

This easy DIY origami gift card holder makes a cute way to gift a gift card. Yep, no glue or tape needed! Just the art of folding paper for these beauties.

Get the Tutorial

9

www.crapivemade.com

Mini Stocking

You can turn these mini stockings into a gift card banner or tie them onto the top of bigger gifts! The best part is once you are done with them, you can hang them on the tree.

Get the Tutorial

10

somethingturquoise.com

Make Your Own Double Mason Jar Gift Card Holders!

Add a personalized tag for a fun and unique gift card holder! I like the idea of adding some favorite candy to this jar as well.

Get the Tutorial

11

seevanessacraft.com

Ten Minute Holder

You can make these DIY gift card holders in 10 minutes or less with fabric scraps and a sewing machine.

Get the Tutorial

12

www.thatswhatchesaid.net

Santa Bags

Cheryl added ribbon and embellishments to turn these mini red bags into Santa themed gift card holders. If you want to get fancy you could add some white trim on the top for extra cuteness.

Get the Tutorial

13

www.polkadotchair.com

Monster Holder

Not all gift card holders have to be holiday themed! These monster card holders are such a fun way to give a gift card to a child. I love the googly eyes!

Get the Tutorial

14

www.myfrugalhome.com

Scrapbook Paper

Katie made a template so that you can use any of your favorite scrapbook papers as gift card holders, making this work perfectly for Christmas or any other holidays.

Get the Tutorial

15

hellocreativefamily.com

Paper Tri-Fold

This is another idea using your Cricut. I like the way that these open up like a book and have the card tucked inside.

Get the Tutorial

16

Jessica Anderson

Gift Card Bouquet Tutorial

This is perfect for a best friend, teacher, or college student for Christmas – or any time of year! Does your gift recipient like to choose their own goodies? They will appreciate this bouquet.

Get the Tutorial

17

organized31.com

Recycled Card Sleeve

These gift card sleeves are created by recycling old Christmas cards! It's the perfect handmade touch, frugal, and earth friendly.

Get the Tutorial

18

Allison Murray

Felt Holder & Gift Tag

I love vibrant the colors are that she chose for this project. Very festive! You can use iron on patches, iron on vinyl, or anything else you like to decorate.

Get the Tutorial

19

Ellen Christian

Washi Tape

These pillow boxes are made from paper towel rolls and then decorated with washi tape! They are the perfect way to reuse so that you can spend more money on the gift card and not the packaging.

Get the Tutorial

20

sustainmycrafthabit.com

Scrapbook Paper and Twine

Using the free template provided and your favorite scrapbook paper, you can easily make these paper boxes! The boxes were so simple and turned out perfectly sized.

Get the Tutorial

21

www.lovelyetc.com

Buffalo Plaid Christmas Ornament

Yep, this Christmas ornament has pockets! Or one, anyway. The pocket is perfect for holding a gift card, and then the ornament can be placed on the tree.

Get the Tutorial

22

Cheryl Spangenberg

Reindeer for Kids

This is super simple to put together if you already have plain pillow boxes. If not, they also provide a link to make your own! This reindeer is great for kids who want to give cars to their teachers or other children.

Get the Tutorial

23

www.thepinningmama.com

Printable in Frame

This is a great last minute teacher or neighbor gift card idea. Just print out the free printable and put everything in a frame!

Get the Tutorial

24

aromasandart.com

Mr. Moose Plaid

The moose and plaid on these holders caught my eye immediately! You don't need a cutter for these – you can just use Su's measurements to cut out the paper.

Get the Tutorial

If you enjoyed these gift card holder ideas, I’d love for you to check out these other related gift and craft posts:

• DIY Mother’s Day Gifts For the Mom Who Has Everything
• 20+ Unique Teacher Appreciation Printables
• Unique DIY Father’s Day Gifts He’ll Love to Get
• Printable Christmas Gift Tags That are Totally Festive
• Unique Gift Wrapping Ideas Add That Special Touch

The post DIY Gift Card Holders You’ll Love to Give appeared first on DIY Candy.

Skills Required: None. Even if you’ve never made anything before, you can make these chains. You’ll be cutting paper, attaching ends, and stringing loops together.

The holiday season is the perfect time to get creative and decorate your home with DIY Christmas decorations! As you might imagine, I’m all about them. And today, I’m going to show you how to make a Christmas paper chain.

Let’s face it: paper chains have been around forever! They’re nothing new. Since the invention of construction paper and folks making paper crafts . . . paper chains have been a thing.

People love making them because they’re easy, even if you’ve never made a thing before. They’re also a fun reminder of crafting in school. Who didn’t make one of these when they were little?

It’s a simple yet charming way to add some holiday cheer to any room, and the best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make.

Not only is a project like this great for Christmas, it’s got a lot of uses. Paper chains are perfect for home decor, birthday parties, showers, classrooms, and even weddings.

They can be casual or more fancy depending on the type of paper you use. But regardless of what you supplies you choose, they’re budget friendly. The main ingredient? Paper.

When you’re finished, you can hang your paper chain from the ceiling, drape it across a mantel, or use as Christmas tree garland. You can even make smaller paper chains to decorate your holiday cards and packages.

Before I show you how to make the chain, I’m going to answer a few frequently asked questions about the project. If you’re ready to see the how to, simply scroll down to the how to card at the bottom.

Q: What is a paper chain and what is it used for?

A: A paper chain is a simple yet impactful craft made from strips of paper that are looped and linked together. They are often used for decorating and celebrations. They’re a fun, hands-on activity for children and adults alike.

Q: How do you make a paper chain?

A: You’re going to choose the paper types and colors, cut the strips, make a foundation loop, and then attach more loops. It’s a simple four step process I will walk you through (plus there’s a video).

Q: Can you use different materials to create one?

A: Yes, you can use construction paper, cardstock, wrapping paper, paper bags, or even recycled materials like magazine pages. Just ensure the material is flexible enough to create loops and strong enough to hold its shape (even if you have to reinforce it).

Q: How can I make my chain more unique and personalized?

A: To add a personal touch try using different colors, patterns, or textures of paper. You can also experiment with varying strip widths, lengths, and shapes.

You can even use old Christmas cards or wrapping paper to add some extra holiday flair.

Q: How do I store and reuse my paper chain if I want to keep it?

A: Carefully fold or roll it up, taking care not to crease the loops. Place it in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container to protect it from dust and moisture. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. To reuse the chain, simply unroll or unfold it and hang it up as desired.

Here’s what you’re going to need to make your project.

Gather These Supplies

• Construction paper or cardstock
• Stapler or Glue Dots or glue (school glue, glue stick, or hot glue too)
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Scissors or craft knife

I prefer cardstock because of the thickness and stability.

You have several options for attaching the ends of the paper to each other to create the loops. The most common are adhesive dots, glue, and a stapler.

The Glue Dots, or adhesive dots, are great because they are no mess and you can’t see them. They’re easy to apply. They’re probably the most expensive of the options, and not that expensive.

Glue is another option and great if you’re doing this with kids. You can use hot glue, liquid glue, or glue sticks. You do have to hold the paper in place until it sticks if you choose this option, so get quick tack if you’re working with littles who might get impatient.

Finally, you can always use a stapler if you’re desperate. Staples are visible somewhat and the edges of the paper don’t seal down well, but staples are great in a pinch!

Are you ready to make your Christmas paper chain? Get the how-to card and video below!

Print

Christmas Paper Chain

Whether you're looking for a fun activity to do with the kids or want to add some personal touches to your holiday decor, this easy paper chain project is sure to delight.

Course Christmas Crafts

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 1 hour hour

Total Time 1 hour hour 10 minutes minutes

Servings 3 chains

Cost $1

Equipment

• Ruler
• Scissors or craft knife
• Craft mat
• Pencil(s) optional

Ingredients

• Construction paper or cardstock
• Stapler or adhesive dots or school glue

Instructions

• Choose paper to use for your chain. Thicker paper helps the chain hold its shape. I chose sparkle green, sparkle white, and red buffalo paper. Each piece of paper makes about 11 links.
  
• Using the craft knife and ruler, cut 1" strips from the paper. If you don't have a craft knife, draw lines with the pencil. Then cut the strips on those lines with scissors.
  
• Place glue or an adhesive dot (or two) at the end of one strip of paper. Bring the other end around and hold until the end sticks. Let dry or cool.
  
• Choose another paper strip. Thread it through the foundation strip, and join the ends together with glue. Let dry. Continue this step until all the paper strips have been added and the chain is the length you desire.
  
• Add your final link. Let the chain dry, then hang with Command strips or tape.
  

Video

If you enjoyed this paper chain for Christmas let me know in the comments! I’d also love for you to check out these other posts:

• Paper Christmas Decorations for a Holiday Home
• DIY Recycled Christmas Decorations to Make
• Star Christmas Crafts for Kids and Adults

The post Christmas Paper Chain in Four Easy Steps appeared first on DIY Candy.