How To Make Money Garland
Money garlands are a popular decoration for graduation parties, birthdays, weddings, and even fundraising events. They add a playful touch of luck and wealth while keeping the atmosphere festive. This guide will walk you through a simple, budget‑friendly method to create a money garland that can be used as a decorative sash or a charming bouquet. The instructions are inspired by Shara’s DIY tutorials and the community of craft enthusiasts who prefer paper over ribbons.
Why Choose a Paper Money Garland?
Paper money garlands have several advantages:
- Easy to Make: No special tools are required.
- Cost‑Effective: Use printer paper or recycled cardstock.
- Customizable: Add colors, patterns, or personalized messages.
- Eco‑Friendly: Reuse paper and reduce waste.
Materials You’ll Need
- Printer paper or cardstock (any color)
- Scissors or a paper cutter
- Ruler and pencil for measurement
- Glue stick or double‑sided tape
- Optional: Metallic pens or markers for embellishment
- Optional: Decorative stickers or stamps
Step‑by‑Step Guide to Creating a Money Garland
Follow these steps to craft a beautiful money garland that can be used as a graduation sash or a decorative bouquet.
Step 1: Design Your PatternDecide on the shape of your money symbols. Common choices include dollar signs ($), euro (€), pound (£), or any currency you prefer. You can either draw the symbols freehand or print them from a template. For a consistent look, use a ruler to keep the sizes uniform.
Step 2: Cut Out the SymbolsUsing a paper cutter or scissors, cut out each money symbol. Aim for a width of 4–5 cm and a height of 2–3 cm. If you’re making a sash, you may want longer pieces (up to 10 cm) to create a flowing effect.
Step 3: Add Decorative DetailsWith metallic pens or markers, outline the symbols and fill in any interior details. This step is optional but gives the garland a polished look. You can also add glitter or stickers to make each piece sparkle.
Step 4: Create the ChainThere are two main ways to string the money symbols:
- Paper Clip Method: Attach a small paper clip to the top of each symbol and string them together.
- Thread Method: Punch a small hole at the top of each symbol with a paper punch or a needle. Thread a piece of yarn or twine through the holes and tie knots to secure them.
For a graduation sash, use a longer thread so the garland drapes nicely across the shoulders.
Step 5: Assemble the GarlandLay out the symbols in the order you wish them to appear. If you’re making a bouquet, arrange them in a circular pattern and secure the center with a rubber band or a small piece of tape. For a sash, align the symbols in a straight line and tie the ends together to form