I want to decorate in summer! Handmade garland ideas
When summer comes, you can’t help wanting to decorate with cool, refreshing interiors to take the edge off the heat.
In this article, we’re introducing ideas for handmade summer garlands! A garland is a string-like decoration that’s popular as a wall ornament.
These days, it’s also a staple for birthday decorations.
We’ll share lots of ideas that capture the feeling of summer—using seasonal materials like shells and starfish, as well as motifs inspired by summer flavors and events—so feel free to use them as a reference and give them a try.
Ideas for Handmade Garlands to Decorate in Summer (1–10)
yo-yo
The sheer look is refreshing and perfect for summer! Here’s an idea for yo-yos.
It’s a picture yo-yo garland idea you can use when you want to add a little twist to summer-themed wall displays or summer festival decorations.
You’ll need construction paper, scissors or a craft knife, clear tape, chenille stems (pipe cleaners), round stickers, and string.
When making the yo-yo shape from construction paper, the key is to cut out the center! Besides pipe cleaners and round stickers, adding beads or glitter inside the yo-yo also makes it look cute.
Give it a try!
star
No glue needed! Here’s a star-themed idea.
Summer in Japan often means Tanabata, so there are plenty of chances to use star motifs.
This time, let’s try making a sparkling star garland.
All you need are holographic origami paper, scissors, and thread or string.
Changing the type of origami paper can completely transform the mood.
It’s also a charming idea to try with pastel or primary-colored origami paper.
If you cut the thread connecting the stars, you can reuse each star motif on its own—highly recommended!
lemon
How about a lemon garland to freshen up your room for summer? Not only will it instantly brighten the space, but the zesty lemon vibe might just blow away that sticky summer heat.
First, create templates for the lemons and leaves, then cut felt to match the templates.
For the lemons, cut circles from felt, fold each one in half and glue, then assemble three pieces together to form a lemon.
Make as many lemons and leaves as you’d like to decorate! Finally, attach each piece to jute twine or similar, and you’re done.
You can hang it like a mobile, drape it on curtains or walls—there are so many ways to style it, and it’s perfect for giving your room a fresh new look.
watermelon
When it comes to classic summer fruits, it has to be watermelon! Why not make a flag-style garland inspired by the triangular slices of cut watermelon? You can draw watermelon designs, cut shapes from construction paper, or simply use printable materials for an easy option.
Then just punch two holes in the rind area and thread a ribbon through.
Choose ribbons that match the watermelon motif, like green or red, or switch up the vibe with natural materials such as jute or paper twine—also highly recommended! It’s perfect for a summer vacation craft with kids, so give it a try!
Tropical leaves
How about a summery, Hawaiian-style garland? Let’s make one with a motif of tropical leaves featuring refreshing greens! Since leaf shapes can be a bit intricate, it’s convenient to prepare a template in advance—half a leaf is enough.
Fold a piece of colored construction paper in half, place the half-leaf template along the fold, and cut; when you open it, you’ll have a perfectly symmetrical leaf! If leaves alone feel a bit plain, you can add plumeria or hibiscus flowers.
To finish it as a garland, using jute twine or paper string will give it a wonderfully natural look.
jellyfish
https://www.tiktok.com/@rico.co984/video/7390303303122291986Refreshing and soothing! Here are some jellyfish-inspired ideas.
How about making a beautiful jellyfish garland that spins in the summer breeze? You’ll need two sheets of origami paper, a paper cup, scissors, double-sided tape, string, and raffia (cellophane) tape.
Using semi-transparent, abstract-design origami paper can create a dreamy, ethereal look.
The steps are simple: you just cut the origami into circles and stick them together, so it’s an activity you can enjoy with children!
Shell
Many of you have probably picked up seashells at the beach in summer.
If you have some shells lying around at home, try turning them into a garland! Even without real shells, you can cut shapes from felt or construction paper to make one.
Decorate the shells with beads, lace, or ribbons, and add summery motifs for an extra nice touch.
You can also thread clear beads or pearl beads onto the garland string to create a cool, breezy look.