If you’re surrounded by paper clutter, consider unleashing your creativity through adult-oriented paper crafts while these activities are often geared towards children, they can also be a fun and engaging way for adults to express themselves and get crafty. Paper is an incredibly versatile medium that can be molded into various forms and shapes with the right skills, tools, and knowledge, the possibilities are endless.
However, let’s be real – most papercraft lists cater to children, with a focus on helping them develop important skills like fine motor control and creativity. Nevertheless, I believe it’s high time we gave adult crafters their due if you’re tired of seeing paper clutter accumulate in your supply cupboard, here’s a list of papercrafts designed specifically for adults.
Easy Tissue Paper Flowers
Tissue paper, the unsung hero of crafting supplies, while we often rave about its ability to add delicate texture and color to our projects, let’s not forget its starring role in creating stunning fake florals. The sheer quality of tissue paper makes it a joy to fold and shape into beautiful blooms that will never lose their luster or require regular maintenance like their real counterparts.
If you’re tired of the cycle of buying and replacing fresh flowers every month, why not try your hand at crafting some long-lasting alternatives with just a few sheets of tissue paper? You can create an entire bouquet that will remain vibrant and intact for years to come, and when it comes to using up those leftover scraps from your stash, these DIYs are the perfect solution.
DIY Paper Birdhouses for Spring
Attracting birds to your garden can be as simple as creating a welcoming habitat. The sweet serenade of birds chirping outside your window is a joy many of us share. To make this a reality, we’ll explore a straightforward approach to drawing in these feathered friends. Believe it or not, with just a pack of patterned card stock – specifically designed for crafting and strong enough to maintain its shape – you can create a charming birdhouse.
This DIY project is perfect for beginners, and the end result will be a cozy abode for your avian visitors.
Paper Chain Rainbow Wall Hanging
For those who are passionate about macrame crafts but lack the necessary cordage, a paper chain wall hanging is an excellent alternative. By employing a clever technique using paper links, you can create a stunning rainbow effect. This charming piece can be easily displayed above your desk, serving as a constant reminder to keep your creative energy flowing.
To ensure stability, simply attach it to a hollow dowel or similar support structure using some yarn, knowing that the weight of the paper won’t compromise its integrity.
DIY Crepe Paper Garland
While traditional tissue paper has its own unique qualities, crepe paper stands out with its textured surface, making it an ideal choice for crafting artificial flowers. This lovely garland, once complete, will be a stunning addition to your mantel or any room’s decor. A crucial component of this DIY endeavor is the floral wire, typically used in professional flower arrangements but here serving as the backbone of our crepe paper creation.
With this versatile green wire, we’ll shape the paper into a beautiful garland that’s sure to impress.
Gorgeous Paper Daisies
When it comes to crafting fake flowers, you can take a different approach altogether. For instance, you can create bright and cheerful blooms using ordinary printer paper. This unique method allows you to produce an array of colorful florals that can be used to adorn gift boxes, vases, or even stem-mounted as thoughtful presents. After all, what better way to show appreciation, celebrate friendship, and express love than with a symbol of these sentiments.
Stunning Map Star Decorations
Are travel enthusiasts always on the lookout for creative ways to repurpose vintage maps? As digital mapping technology has taken center stage, traditional paper maps may no longer be the go-to tool for navigation; however, their aesthetic appeal makes them a great choice as decorative pieces or unique embellishments for various projects.
Transforming old map books into stunning decorative items is not only an eco-friendly endeavor but also a fun and creative way to breathe new life into forgotten treasures. To get started, you’ll need a reliable adhesive with quick-drying properties, such as the one mentioned.
Farmhouse Sign with Cricut Flowers
For those passionate about paper crafts, a Cricut machine is an invaluable tool that can revolutionize your creative endeavors. With its incredible versatility, this device can help you create a wide range of projects, from custom labels to elaborate signage. If you’re considering a farmhouse sign, for instance, the ‘fresh-cut flowers’ can be expertly cut from cardstock in various neutral shades and mounted on the design.
While owning a Cricut machine offers unparalleled precision and ease, it’s also possible to achieve similar results by hand if that’s not within your budget or preference.
Rainbow Paper Dahlia Flowers
When it comes to flower language, dahlias are steeped in symbolism – representing inner strength, creativity, dignity, and positive change. It’s little wonder then that they’re a popular choice for adding a touch of positivity to our surroundings. To bring some of these uplifting vibes into your workspace or home, try creating your own paper dahlias using colored cardstock and a simple folding technique.
This craft is also an excellent opportunity to get creative with the kids, making it a fun and educational activity for all ages. Once complete, you can proudly display your vibrant creations and let their beauty bring a smile to your face.
Eucalyptus and Hydrangea Wreath
While the previous arrangement was ideal for indoor use, a eucalyptus and hydrangea wreath on the front door is an entirely different story. This beautiful combination of flowers and foliage provides a stunning welcome mat that sets the tone for your home’s entrance. The versatility of this craft lies in its ability to be easily adapted using a basic foam wreath form as its foundation, which can then be covered with a mixture of hydrangeas and eucalyptus.
The symbolic significance of these flowers is also noteworthy – hydrangeas embody elegance and beauty, while eucalyptus represents resilience, strength, and protection. As your guests arrive at the door, this charming wreath serves as a thoughtful greeting that conveys your warm hospitality.
DIY Paper Envelope
Ditch store-bought envelopes for good by mastering this ingenious technique. With just a few simple steps, you can transform any piece of paper into a stunning envelope that will elevate your gift-giving game and promote sustainability during the holiday season and beyond.
Gorgeous Paper Village
Ditch the traditional nativity scene and opt instead for this charming handmade village, a perfect fit for the winter season. Nestled within a dense paper forest, the houses in this whimsical setting are nothing short of irresistible. For those new to the world of papercrafting, these adorable abodes are surprisingly easy to create, thanks to their straightforward construction.
Be sure to have a high-temperature hot glue gun at the ready (for solid joins) and you’ll be well on your way to crafting a village that’s sure to delight. To add an extra layer of charm to your winter wonderland scene, consider inviting some furry friends to join in on the fun. Your kids can get creative with these simple and adorable dog crafts, making it a fun and collaborative activity for the whole family.
DIY Paper Plants
While the notion of cultivating a lush indoor environment with living plants may appeal to some, the upkeep involved can be a significant deterrent for many. However, this doesn’t mean that we must sacrifice the visual benefits of a green space within our homes. A creative solution lies in the realm of paper plants, which offer a maintenance-free alternative to their living counterparts.
Simple but Stunning Map Roses
Transform your old maps into a unique and thought-provoking centerpiece by arranging paper roses in a vase. This creative solution not only utilizes your map collection but also adds a touch of elegance to any room. To give it an extra pop, consider staining the map’s edges with a subtle golden hue, allowing the beauty of the rose design to take center stage.
Make Some Recycled Paper
In our upcoming project, we’re shaking things up by taking the craft process a step back – literally instead of working with pre-existing materials, we’ll be creating the very foundation of those materials: paper. By recycling and reusing paper, we’re not only reducing waste but also promoting sustainable crafting practices.
A Jar of Folded Origami Stars
In Japan, the tradition of gifting paper stars has a unique significance. A jar filled with one hundred intricately folded stars is said to grant a single wish to the recipient. What’s more, learning this simple yet elegant fold is remarkably easy and can be mastered in no time. To add an extra layer of thoughtfulness, consider writing a personal message or affirmation inside each strip of paper, infusing your gift with positive energy and love.
Origami Planter Covers
Take the charm of standard terracotta pots to new heights by transforming them with a simple yet creative paper cover. This clever DIY project requires just cardstock and a scoring board set (available here). The best part: you can easily scale up these covers to conceal vases, fruit bowls, or even create one-of-a-kind centerpieces that reflect your personal style.
For more innovative ways to elevate your planters, explore some of the ingenious dollar store planter ideas waiting to be discovered.
DIY Paper Palm Leaf
Elevate your decor with a minimalist-inspired arrangement that exudes effortless bohemian charm. The simplicity of paper palm leaves arranged in a glass vase is truly magazine-worthy. To recreate this stunning piece, you’ll need brown paper to craft the fronds and either craft dowels or bamboo for the stems. For added texture, consider substituting bamboo for a more rugged look.
Crepe Paper Bunny Tails
The revival of crepe paper has arrived, bringing with it a touch of whimsy and elegance. The ‘bunny tails’ phenomenon is all about those fluffy, flower-like decorations that add a playful charm to any setting. And the best part: With a Cricut machine, you can effortlessly cut precise fringe designs from crepe paper, saving you time and effort. Simply mount these delicate fringes onto white wire and style them anywhere for an instant touch of sophistication.
Gradient Paper Leaf Mobile
As an expecting parent, you’re probably excited to create a cozy nursery for your little one. One way to achieve that is by crafting a gradient paper mobile, which not only adds a touch of sweetness to the room but also saves you money compared to buying one from a store. To get started, grab some white yarn and settle in with your partner for a fun cutting session. You’ll need many individual leaves, so make sure to have plenty of time on your hands.
Once you’ve cut out all the necessary shapes, string them onto the yarn to form garlands. Finally, attach the garlands to a golden hoop, and voila – your mobile is complete.
DIY Woven Paper Plate Bowl
A humble paper plate can unexpectedly transform into a beautiful container, making it the perfect solution for those struggling with storage space for their crafting supplies. I came up with this project precisely because of my own supply constraints. With just a few basic materials – a paper plate, yarn, and tape – you’ll be able to create a functional bowl in under 30 minutes.
The simplicity of this DIY project is its greatest appeal, making it an ideal activity for those short on time or space.
Pastel Rainbow Wall Hanging
While the previous rainbow-inspired decor shared similarities with the traditional rainbow wall hanging, this unique piece takes things to the next level by featuring a full, vibrant spectrum of colors rather than simply capturing the first half. The striking aspect of this creation lies not only in its comprehensive representation of the rainbow but also in its soft, pastel hues, which add an extra layer of visual appeal.
Simple Yet Elegant Paper Fans
When it comes to home decor, I have a soft spot for individuals who can effortlessly infuse their space with personality. That’s why I’m impressed by those who adorn their homes with paper fans – a touch of elegance that doesn’t require a hefty price tag. A simple cardstock is all you need to get creative, so choose your patterns wisely. What elevates these fans to new heights are the doily edges and golden straws – two elements that can instantly add a dash of sophistication.
Don’t be shy in showcasing these stunning decorations; they would look equally impressive arranged in a yarn-wrapped vase, giving them a charmingly rustic touch.
Simple DIY Gift Box
To elevate the humble gift-giving experience, I’ve got a quick and easy DIY gift box solution that pairs perfectly with the stunning paper envelope we explored earlier. This clever craft requires minimal time investment but yields impressive results. The key to achieving a polished finish lies in the use of a trusty bone folder – an essential tool for any crafter looking to create crisp lines and sharp angles.
With this simple yet effective technique, your gifts will instantly take on a professional sheen.
Stunning Hanging Wisteria
Building upon our exploration of flower symbolism, it’s intriguing to note that wisteria is often associated with longevity and immortality due to its remarkable ability to thrive for extended periods. However, this same durability doesn’t translate well to indoor environments, where these flowers often struggle to survive. To bring a touch of this elegant bloom into your home, consider crafting paper wisterias in various colors and sizes to adorn your kitchen, living area, or bedroom.
Origami Folded Pen Holder
While origami can be a wondrous activity, it’s also valuable when the folded creation serves a practical purpose. A perfectly crafted pen holder is a great example, as it provides a dedicated spot for even the smallest paperclips to rest. To make your own pen holder, select any patterned paper that reflects your personal style and complements your home décor. Just keep in mind that you’ll need square origami sheets (found here) to ensure the intricate design comes together seamlessly.
A Gorgeous Fall Garland
Embrace the cozy atmosphere of Fall by crafting a delightful garland that exudes warmth and charm. For an expert finish, consider selecting a consistent color scheme and adhering to it throughout your design, allowing each element to harmonize and create a polished look.
Create Your Seed Paper
Creating seed paper is an eco-friendly endeavor that embodies the spirit of renewal. By repurposing old paper products, we’re not only reducing waste but also providing a nurturing environment for seeds to germinate. This simple yet effective process is a testament to human ingenuity and our connection with nature.
Paper Punch Backdrop
While grandiose DIY projects are always exciting, this delicate paper punch backdrop stands out for its understated charm. The best part: you can easily customize the color to match your theme. For a seamless experience, I highly suggest investing in a circle puncher, as attempting to cut out hundreds of tiny circles by hand would be a tedious task. Another creative option is to consider crafting a photo display wall as your backdrop.
Dollar store frames offer endless possibilities and make this DIY project surprisingly simple.
DIY Paper Succulents
When it comes to displaying succulents, the Cricut’s versatility really shines. For instance, you can cut out intricate designs that resemble the natural shapes and patterns found in nature, giving your potted succulents a whimsical touch. The shape, size, and color of these plants are so perfect, they almost appear to be growing right before your eyes.
To enhance the visual appeal, consider pairing them with planters featuring natural textures, such as wooden or stone designs, which will create a stunning contrast.
Summer Fruity Paper Medallions
As we approach the final installment of our papercraft series, we’re treating ourselves to a vibrant celebration of summer’s arrival. We’re putting forth a stunning tribute to the beauty of fruit – its kaleidoscope of colors and intricate shapes that are not only achievable with paper but may even surpass their natural counterparts in terms of visual appeal.
A Simple Paper Wreath
To conclude the list, let’s explore a creative project that can be adapted to any time, place, or celebration. Crafting sweet and simple paper wreaths using wrapping paper is a fantastic way to add a personal touch to any occasion. You can easily theme them according to the season by choosing wrapping papers in seasonal colors. For instance, opt for bunny-themed wrapping paper for Easter, red and green for Christmas, or blue, gold, and white for Hanukkah. The possibilities are truly endless.
Additionally, there are many other unique wreath ideas waiting to be discovered, making them perfect for your next holiday gathering.
Conclusion
Whether paper crafting, card making, or scrapbooking has piqued your interest, creating with paper can be an enjoyable and creative outlet. As you explore this craft, I’d love to hear about your experiences and what draws you to it. Please share any thoughts or questions in the comments below.