Are you surrounded by scraps of paper and feeling uninspired? It’s high time to unleash your creativity and take on some innovative paper crafts designed specifically for adults. Contrary to popular belief, papercrafts aren’t just for kids. With the right techniques, tools, and know-how, anyone can transform ordinary paper into extraordinary works of art. While many crafting resources cater to children, it’s time we shone a spotlight on adult crafters who deserve their own creative outlet.
So, if you’re an adult with a stash of paper sitting idly by, this list is for you – packed with ideas and inspiration to take your crafting skills to the next level.
Easy Tissue Paper Flowers
Tissue paper, a staple in many crafters’ arsenals, holds a special place in my heart. Its ethereal quality makes it an ideal medium for creating lifelike floral arrangements that will never fade or wilt. With its delicate sheen and folding capabilities, tissue paper is the perfect tool for crafting fake blooms that can be enjoyed for months to come. To get started, simply grab a pack of tissue paper and let your creative juices flow.
And don’t worry about being left with a surplus – there are plenty of stash-busting DIYs out there that will help you use up every last piece.
DIY Paper Birdhouses for Spring
Waking up to the sweet sounds of birds chirping outside your window is a joy many of us can’t get enough of. One simple way to attract more feathered friends to your garden is by creating a birdhouse that’s both functional and visually appealing. Believe it or not, you don’t need to be a skilled carpenter or woodworker to build one – all you need is a pack of patterned card stock like the type shown here, which provides the necessary strength and durability to hold the house’s shape.
Paper Chain Rainbow Wall Hanging
For craft enthusiasts who crave macrame but lack the necessary cord, a paper chain wall hanging is an excellent alternative. By employing a clever paper link technique, you can create a stunning rainbow effect! Consider displaying this vibrant piece above your workspace to foster inspiration and keep those creative juices flowing.
To add stability, simply attach it to a hollow dowel or similar support using yarn – the lightweight design ensures that even the heaviest of chains won’t cause any issues.
DIY Crepe Paper Garland
Crepe paper stands out from standard tissue paper with its distinctive rippled texture, making it an ideal choice for crafting artificial flowers. This charming garland is sure to impress when displayed on your mantel or other decorative space. At the heart of this DIY endeavor lies floral wire (available here), a versatile tool commonly used in flower arrangement that will provide the structure for our crepe paper creation.
By using this wire, we can achieve the desired shape and form for our garland.
Gorgeous Paper Daisies
Create an alternative approach to crafting fake flowers by utilizing regular printer paper. Unlike the traditional daisy-making process with tissue or crepe paper, this method yields bright and cheerful blooms that can be used in various ways. Consider using them as decorative accents for gift boxes, arranging them in a vase, or even attaching them to stems to create unique gifts for your loved ones. In today’s world, expressing gratitude, appreciation, and affection is more important than ever.
Stunning Map Star Decorations
If you’re a travel enthusiast, you might be surprised to find that the humble paper map is still a valuable treasure trove of decoration ideas. As we increasingly rely on digital navigation tools, these tactile wonders have become somewhat relegated to nostalgia. However, they can still be repurposed in creative ways. For instance, you can transform old maps into unique decorations, making perfect use of any forgotten or worn-out map books gathering dust in your home.
To bring this idea to life, you’ll need a reliable and fast-drying adhesive, such as the type found here. With these simple materials, you can breathe new life into vintage maps and create something truly special.
Farmhouse Sign with Cricut Flowers
For craft enthusiasts who adore paper crafting and haven’t yet taken the plunge into the world of cutting machines, it’s high time to consider investing in a Cricut. These incredibly versatile devices open up a vast array of creative possibilities, enabling you to produce everything from custom labels to bespoke signage with ease.
In the context of this charming farmhouse sign, the ‘fresh-cut flowers’ are meticulously cut from cardstock in various soft, muted hues and then carefully mounted onto the design. While the Cricut undoubtedly makes the process more efficient and precise, it’s also possible to achieve similar results by hand if you’re short on time or prefer a more tactile approach.
Rainbow Paper Dahlia Flowers
Dahlias hold profound symbolism in the language of flowers, conveying inner strength, creativity, dignity, and the capacity for positive change. As we seek to cultivate positivity in our personal and professional spaces, what better way to do so than by infusing them with the vibrant energy of these beauties?
By crafting your own paper dahlias using colored cardstock and a simple folding technique, you can create an instant mood-booster that’s not only visually striking but also imbued with the symbolic meanings of this stunning flower. And if you’re looking to share in this creative experience, why not involve the kids and watch as they learn to craft their own unique dahlias?
As you adorn your living space with these colorful creations, you’ll be spreading positivity and uplifting energy throughout your surroundings.
Eucalyptus and Hydrangea Wreath
Transforming your front door into a stunning entrance is as simple as crafting an elegant wreath. For this purpose, start with a basic foam form like [this](insert link to foam wreform), which serves as the foundation for your masterpiece. Cover it with a harmonious blend of hydrangeas and eucalyptus flowers, imbuing your home’s facade with symbolism that resonates with your guests.
Hydrangeas are often associated with poise and loveliness, while eucalyptus represents resilience, strength, and protection. As visitors approach the door, they’ll be greeted by this thoughtful message, inviting them to a warm and welcoming space.
DIY Paper Envelope
Master the art of creating stunning paper envelopes from everyday materials, rendering store-bought options obsolete. This game-changing technique not only opens up a world of creative possibilities for gift-giving, but also fosters sustainability during holidays like Christmas and birthdays.
Gorgeous Paper Village
Ditch the conventional nativity scene and create a stunning handmade winter wonderland instead. This charming village is nestled within a lush paper forest, exuding an undeniable charm. While papercrafting may seem daunting for beginners, fear not! These adorable houses are surprisingly easy to construct, thanks to their straightforward design. To ensure seamless joins, be sure to have a high-temperature hot glue gun on hand (link).
To further enhance the scene, encourage your kids to add some furry friends to the mix. Choose from an array of kid-friendly dog crafts that are as cute as they are simple.
DIY Paper Plants
While the notion of filling your home with lush greenery can be alluring, the upkeep required may deter many from pursuing it. That’s where a clever alternative comes into play: paper plants that require zero maintenance. This innovative approach allows you to create a mini-ecosystem in your home without the hassle of watering or pruning. The beauty of this method lies in its versatility – there are no limitations on color, shape, or size, so feel free to let your creativity flourish!
To get started, I’ve put together a selection of plant pots that can help you begin building your paper forest.
Simple but Stunning Map Roses
Transform your old maps into a unique travel-themed centerpiece by arranging paper roses in a vase. This creative twist on map decor is perfect for any room. To add an extra touch of elegance, try staining the map’s edges with watercolor paint to create a rosy hue. Alternatively, you could experiment with different shades like golden stain to give it a warm and inviting glow.
Make Some Recycled Paper
In our upcoming project, we’re shaking things up by taking the crafting process to the next level – literally! Instead of working with pre-made paper, you’ll be creating your own paper from scratch. This not only reduces waste but also allows for a unique and sustainable approach to crafting. And don’t worry if you’re new to this; the process is surprisingly easy and yields stunning results that can be used in all sorts of creative projects.
To get started, you’ll need two essential tools: a wooden paper press and a wooden sieve – both of which are highly recommended for achieving the best possible outcomes.
A Jar of Folded Origami Stars
In Japan, the tradition of gifting paper stars holds a special significance. According to custom, presenting a jar filled with one hundred intricately folded star shapes can grant a single heartfelt wish to the recipient. What makes this gift even more endearing is the opportunity to infuse each star with a personal message, conveying love and positivity to the intended individual.
The process of mastering the star fold is surprisingly simple, allowing you to quickly create these paper stars at will.
Origami Planter Covers
Take your terracotta pots from ordinary to extraordinary by adding a simple yet effective paper cover. Using cardstock and a scoring board set, create a unique and customizable planter that can elevate any space. This DIY project is versatile, allowing you to scale up the design to cover circular vases, fruit bowls, or even create a one-of-a-kind centerpiece. For more creative ways to take your planters to the next level, explore some of the ingenious dollar store planter ideas out there.
DIY Paper Palm Leaf
Minimalist chic meets bohemian flair in this stunning arrangement featuring paper palm leaves. To recreate this magazine-worthy masterpiece, start by gathering brown paper for the fronds and craft dowels or bamboo for the stems. The simplicity of the design allows the natural texture and subtle color of the paper to take center stage, adding a touch of understated elegance to any room.
Crepe Paper Bunny Tails
The resurgence of crepe paper has arrived, and we’re not just talking about making fluffy bunny tails! Those ‘bunny tails’ are actually a type of chic flower that’s reminiscent of the furry felines. With this project, you’ll have another compelling reason to own a Cricut machine – it will significantly reduce the time spent cutting crepe paper into delicate fringe. Once cut, attach them to white wire and style anywhere for a truly unique look.
Gradient Paper Leaf Mobile
As a new parent-to-be, you’ll be delighted to know that crafting a gradient paper mobile for your nursery can be an enjoyable and budget-friendly project. Not only will it add a personal touch to the little one’s space, but it’ll also help you save some money compared to buying one from a store. Gather your partner and get cozy with some scissors, as you’ll need many individual leaves to create this beautiful mobile. Once you have them cut out, string them onto white yarn to form garlands.
Finally, attach the garlands to a golden hoop, following the same process described above, to complete this charming DIY project.
DIY Woven Paper Plate Bowl
Imagine transforming a humble paper plate into a stylish storage vessel in mere minutes. This ingenious DIY project has saved my sanity by providing a space-saving solution for storing craft supplies when shelves are overflowing. The best part? It requires only three basic materials: a paper plate, some yarn, and tape.
With these simple components, you can create a functional and aesthetically pleasing bowl to hold your treasures in under 30 minutes – that’s the beauty of this quick and easy DIY endeavor.
Pastel Rainbow Wall Hanging
While the latest addition to our decor inspiration may seem reminiscent of the colorful rainbow wall hanging we featured earlier, there’s a key difference worth highlighting. This unique piece doesn’t simply depict the top half of the rainbow, as its predecessor did, but rather brings the entire arc of color to life through intricate paper linkwork. And, if you’re anything like us, you’ll appreciate the soft, pastel hues that add a touch of whimsy and charm to any room.
Simple Yet Elegant Paper Fans
I’m impressed by anyone who can effortlessly incorporate paper fans into their home decor. And I should know, because I’ve included them on my list of stylish must-haves. You don’t need to break the bank at Anthropologie to achieve this level of flair – standard cardstock will do just fine. Just be sure to choose your patterns wisely, as they’re what take these fans from ordinary to extraordinary. The addition of delicate doily edges and golden straws elevates them even further.
And why stop there? These decorative delights would look stunning arranged in a yarn-wrapped vase, lending them a charmingly shabby chic aura.
Simple DIY Gift Box
A simple yet elegant DIY gift box is the perfect accompaniment to our stunning paper envelope from earlier. While it requires minimal effort, it elevates your gift-giving experience and gives off a sense of professionalism. To achieve the crisp lines and precise angles that give this box its charm, I highly recommend investing in a bone folder – an essential tool for any craft enthusiast.
Stunning Hanging Wisteria
As our exploration of flower language continues, the symbolism of wisteria is particularly intriguing. Its remarkable longevity, symbolizing long life and immortality, is tempered by its susceptibility to environmental conditions. Despite its robust constitution, these flowers struggle to thrive indoors. This is where the beauty of papercraft comes into play.
Rather than attempting to cultivate wisterias in a controlled indoor environment, bring the charm of these flowers into your home by creating a stunning array of paper wisterias in various colors and sizes. Hang them from your kitchen ceiling, create a lush display in your living area, or adorn your bedroom with this delicate yet vibrant papercraft.
Origami Folded Pen Holder
Origami has the power to be truly remarkable when it serves a practical purpose in addition to its artistic appeal. A well-chosen origami project can provide a functional benefit that enhances our daily lives, such as this clever pen holder designed to store even the smallest paperclips. The beauty of this design lies not only in its unique appearance but also in its ability to keep your workspace organized and clutter-free.
To make it truly one-of-a-kind, select any patterned paper you like and use it to create a pen holder that reflects your personal style. However, it’s essential to note that the pattern relies on square origami sheets for its success, so be sure to choose those specifically.
A Gorgeous Fall Garland
As the crisp autumn air settles in, why not start by crafting a delightful Fall garland that embodies the season’s cozy charm? One key to making this project truly shine is selecting a cohesive color scheme and committing to it throughout. This thoughtful approach will result in a visually appealing arrangement that perfectly captures the essence of Fall.
Create Your Seed Paper
In a remarkable process that’s as eco-friendly as it is innovative, seed paper is born from the transformation of old paper into a fertile ground for new life. This recycled paper serves as a perfect medium for seeds to germinate, making it an excellent way to give back to the earth while simultaneously fostering growth and renewal.
Paper Punch Backdrop
While grand DIYs are always impressive, sometimes minimal can be mighty. Case in point: this stunning paper punch backdrop that offers the perfect background without overwhelming the senses. The best part? You can customize the color to match your event’s aesthetic! To make this project more manageable, I strongly suggest investing in a circle puncher – it will save you hours of tedious cutting. Alternatively, consider creating a photo display wall as your backdrop.
This easy DIY is elevated with nifty dollar store frame ideas that can be used to create a unique and eye-catching focal point.
DIY Paper Succulents
Having a Cricut at your disposal can be a total game-changer when it comes to creative projects. For instance, crafting the perfect succulent arrangement requires precision and attention to detail – two things that owning a Cricut excels in. The realistic shapes, sizes, and colors of these plants make them almost seem like they’re sprouting right before your eyes! To take it to the next level, I suggest opting for a planter pot with a natural texture that will create a stunning contrast.
Wooden planters, for example, would be an excellent choice, as their organic feel complements the artificial succulents perfectly.
Summer Fruity Paper Medallions
As we approach the final installment of our papercraft series, we’re thrilled to pay homage to the vibrant hues and captivating forms of summer’s sweet treats. The incredible thing about this project is that not only can you replicate these stunning depictions with paper, but they may even surpass their real-life counterparts in terms of sheer visual appeal.
A Simple Paper Wreath
To conclude our list, let’s create something versatile that can be enjoyed at any time, in any place, and on any occasion. Why not craft sweet paper wreaths using wrapping paper and theme them according to the season? For Easter, opt for bunny-patterned wrapping paper, or go with red and green hues for Christmas, and blue, gold, and white for Hanukkah celebrations. The possibilities are endless.
Moreover, there’s no shortage of creative wreath ideas out there, so take some time to explore them and find the perfect one for your next holiday gathering.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a newcomer, chances are that one of these activities has caught your attention. Perhaps you’ve dabbled in making paper before, but if not, now’s the perfect opportunity to share your experiences and any tips you may have learned along the way. So go ahead, leave a comment below and let’s get this creative conversation started!
