Make a small paper bunting garland

What will you learn?

Cut nine matching flags from three paper colours, punch paired holes and thread them on cotton string.

Tools

• Pencil; ruler; scissors; single-hole punchSearch Amazon UK ↗

Materials

• Three sheets of paper or light card; paper triangle template; cotton stringSearch Amazon UK ↗

Step by step

Photorealistic illustration · Waey

1. Plan a repeated pattern and trace matching flags

Choose three paper colours and draw a triangle template that fits three times on each sheet, leaving enough room for clean cuts. Trace the same template onto each colour to make nine flags in total. Plan a simple repeated colour order before cutting, and keep the top edge wide enough for two holes. Consistent shapes and a clear sequence make assembly easier than deciding the size separately for every flag.

Photorealistic illustration · Waey

2. Cut carefully and compare the shapes

Cut each outline with scissors while keeping your supporting hand away from the blades. Turn the paper as needed rather than reaching across a blade path, and keep the work supported on the table. Compare the flags with the original template and trim only a small uneven edge if necessary. Collect the offcuts promptly so they do not hide the punch or become scattered around the floor; nine usable flags are enough for this small garland.

Photorealistic illustration · Waey

3. Punch two holes near the upper corners

Mark two hole positions near each flag’s top corners, leaving a practical margin so the paper will not tear as the string is threaded. Test the spacing on an offcut before punching the finished flags. Keep fingers clear of the punch mechanism and work one manageable flag at a time. A hole too close to an edge is easier to avoid now than to repair after the completed garland is lifted.

Photorealistic illustration · Waey

4. Thread the planned order and leave it untensioned

Thread the cotton string through both holes of each flag in the same direction, repeating the three-colour sequence three times. Leave some free string at both ends and space the flags while the garland rests on the table. Lift it gently without pulling the paper tight or wrapping string around your hand. Choose any later display position with suitable fixings and a safe route, away from heat, exits and young children’s reach.

Final checks

Count nine flags, check intact hole margins and keep the string slack enough not to tear the paper. Store flat and keep loose string safely contained.