DIY Paper Craft Christmas Decorations, Honeycomb Accordion Tree, Angel & Ornaments

Hello, Neighbors! Looking for a fun and unique way to decorate for Christmas this year? I found this fantastic craft on youtube I wanted to share with you. Here are some of the best DIY videos to show you how. I made some templates at the bottom of the page for you to download. These are super easy and kid friendly.

This style was mass produced in the USA starting in 1910 and became very popular in the 1960s. This 3D effect is made by gluing layers of paper together in a specific pattern.

I’m using lightweight cardstock paper for these ornaments because it holds up well and is more durable than tissue paper. TIP: Use the same weight of paper for both colors of the ornament. Don’t mix paper weights in the same project.

TEMPLATES at the bottom of the page. FREE! no subscription nonsense either. 🙂

PAPER

For best results, choose lightweight paper like construction paper or regular printer paper. Magazine paper works great too. You want something not too thick so that it still has that honeycomb look. If you use heavy cardstock, it doesn’t open as well.

GLUING

The steps to make each ornament are similar, but the gluing patterns vary. I have templates below for you to print. To make the accordion look, you’ll layer the paper pieces like a sandwich, with glue between each layer.

A Few Helpful Tips

I found that craft glue works the best for a neat and smooth finish. Hot glue gets bulky and doesn’t lay flat. You can also try glue dots or double-sided tape—whatever you have at home.

When you’re gluing, keep the lines thin and straight so the glue doesn’t spill over. Less is more! A fine tip applicator or small paint brush works best.

For extra glitter, brush white glue or Modge Podge onto the edges once the ornament is finished, sprinkle the glitter, and let it dry completely.

Assembling the Ornament

(30 pieces of paper)

Follow the glue guide for the ornament. Start by folding one piece along the score line, then glue on the lines that say INSIDE. Close the piece, then glue on the lines that say OUTSIDE. Layer another piece on top and repeat the process—just like a plate stack. Keep layering until all 30 pieces are glued together.

Once all the pieces are layered in place, gently press them together. You can use clips or a heavy object to keep them pushed together while they dry. Once it’s dry, apply glue along the spine to seal it all together. You can use hot glue or craft glue.