Learn how to make the best and easiest DIY garlands for parties or decor! There are some very unique options for birthday, holidays, Christmas, and more. These also use a variety of materials: paper, felt, yarn, fabric, balloons, and even contact paper.
Garlands, right? Who knew they’d be the unsung heroes of my living room, long after the Christmas tree went bye-bye back into the closet.
My pom pom garland from last December? It’s still rockin’ the mantel spot like it’s vying for a year-round performance award (it’s number 29 in the lineup below, and yes, it’s got spunk!).
As I packed away the Christmas baubles, I faced a decor dilemma: could I really pack away something that sparks joy faster than you can say ‘Marie Kondo’?
The answer: a resounding nope. And just like that, my festive garland became a mainstay, boldly defying the seasons with its cheery pops of red and green.
But, all good parties must evolve, and it’s high time this garland got a spring in its step.
That’s where the ‘DIY’ in ‘DIY garlands’ comes to life—because who says you can’t hang a little happiness on your wall, window, or wherever you darn well please?
I’ve found 50+ DIY garland ideas that are about to turn your decor game on its head. From clothespin chic to felt fun, and yarn to washi tape wonders, there’s something for every occasion and holiday.
There are some ideas for celebrations, some ideas for parties, and some that will work for both. You can obviously customize any of them with any colors to make them more holiday or party friendly.
Which of these ideas will you claim for your next project? Share your top picks in the comments and let’s swap stories of garland greatness.
Jump into the list below and get ready to garland-ify your home with these easy, breezy DIYs. Let’s make and hang with abandon. Happy crafting!
DIY Garlands
Learn how to make a variety of garlands for parties and beyond! You'll find a bunch of different styles that all have in common: they are very easy DIY projects.
Wood Bead Garland
Learn how to make a wood beaded garland on a budget! This is a perfect home decor craft idea for beginners. You'll complete this project in three simple steps.
Pom Pom Garland
Making a pom pom garland is so simple! I'll show you how to do it in the color and size that you like. Perfect for beginning crafters.
Tissue Paper
It's fun to use various patterns of tissue paper to make the coolest colorful bunting you've ever seen. Great for decorating and using up paper scraps.
Scrappy Fabric
Learn how to make the easiest garland ever with a simple technique! Allison saw this idea at a baby shower - you can make this in any fabrics and colors you like.
Easy Paper
Are you looking for an easy, fun, and cheap way to decorate your home for parties? Then check out these DIY paper garlands. You can make them very quickly, and customize the colors!
Rainbow Fans
If you’re planning a rainbow-themed or art-themed party, make sure to include this bright and easy rainbow fan garland. It’s such an inexpensive craft and looks amazing!
Party Hats
What's better than a birthday garland made from party hats? If you like cute DIY garlands . . . this is going to be perfect for your next celebration.
Bunches of Balloons
Need a gorgeous statement piece for your next party? Learn how to make this DIY balloon garland . . . it's easier than you think!
Super Simple Felt Olive Leaves
Grab some felt and string to create this super adorable felt olive leaf garland! Learn how to do it using the colors of your choice. I love this garland because it's perfect for farmhouse decorating.
Upcycled Denim
Make fabulous upcycled denim bunting using old jeans. There are two versions of this patriotic bunting, Union Jack and Stars and Stripes.
Feathers and Beads
Some garlands can be used for both parties and for decorating - and this one fits the bill for me! I love the colors; it's so bright and fun. It's also perfect for a room wall.
How to Finger Knit a Holiday Garland
How to finger knit a holiday garland! Finger knitting is simple and comes together quickly for a fun DIY project. Make several strands in the color of your choice.
Art Deco Fans
Bright and colorful fan garland shapes are just about as cool as it gets! I love the statement these big banners make at any celebration.
Sweet Candy
This candy garland is SO easy to make. It's perfect for parties, or the Christmas tree. Fun for kids or for adults.
DIY Vintage Contact Paper Bunting
When I said you could turn just about anything into a garland, I meant it! That includes contact paper. Pick a pretty pattern, and you'll have a banner in minutes.
Crepe Paper Garland with Fringe!
Make a crepe paper garland – they’re inexpensive, easy, and very versatile! Perfect if you want a quick craft fix or some simple decor on a budget.
Paper Chain
Learn how to make paper chains the easiest way possible! This is a fun idea for both kids and adults, and great for parties and holidays.
Free Printable Candy Letter Garland
If you're looking for a birthday banner that is ready to go with just a pair of scissors, you're going to love this free printable. Just print and hang.
Easy No-Sew Felt Heart Garland for Valentine’s Day
Make this easy no-sew felt heart garland with pre-made red felt hearts, glue dots, and vintage-looking scrubby yarn from the craft store!
Valentine's Day Garland That Kids Can Make
Use tags and twine from the craft store to make a pretty Valentine’s Day garland in minutes! This method works for any holiday – no skills required.
How to Make a Felt Circle Garland
Felt circles are so easy to sew together and turn into a banner! You will need a sewing machine for this (it would take too long by hand), and it's very easy.
Easter Bunny Garland in a Few Easy Steps!
This cute and colorful Easter garland is so easy to make with scrapbook paper and yarn! Who doesn’t love a sweet bunny? Both kids and adults will love making this together.
Easter Egg Garland You'll Leave Up All Spring
Learn how to make a simple and colorful Easter egg garland using silicone molds and hot glue. This is such a fun and easy craft idea! Customize for any holiday.
Easter Banner with Paint Chips
You can make this easy Easter banner out of old paint chips, and children will love it; this project teaches them to weave!
DIY Fall Garland
Learn how to make the easiest autumn garland EVER! This fall garland is done and on your mantel in three steps.
DIY Book Page Ghost Garland
Make a simple ghost garland with just a few supplies in no time at all, for festive Halloween fun! What other types of banners can you make out of book pages?
Snowy Mountain Garland
I love the idea of a bunting that can take you from Christmas all the way through winter! You're just going to need some felt, and you can make this in any color you like.
Ribbon Candy Felt Garland
Learn how to make a Christmas garland that looks just like ribbon candy! I love the idea of using this in bright colors for a birthday as well.
Pom Pom Christmas Garland
Learn how to make a pom pom Christmas garland to decorate your holiday home! This is SO easy to make, even for beginning crafters.
Christmas Banner
Learn how to make a simple Christmas banner using scrapbook paper and pom pom trim.
Paper Ornament Christmas Garland
Hang this easy paper garland over the mantle or on your front door for the Christmas holidays. Kids or adults will love to make this simple craft in five easy steps.
Christmas Ornament Garland
This Christmas ornament garland is a simple and easy DIY to up your Christmas decor game! Learn how to make this unique decoration in a few simple steps!
Christmas Tree Garland Made with Perler Beads
This unique Christmas tree garland made from perler beads looks so awesome on a tree! You can make it in minutes and it’s great for any celebration.
If you enjoyed these homemade garlands, I’d love for you to check out these other ideas: