How to Make a Paper Christmas House

With a few measurents, you can make a paper house without a template.

Paper Christmas houses can be used in miniature decorative villages or as tree ornaments or small homemade gifts. For a simple design, a printed template is not necessary. A few measurements will ensure that the house will fit together when folded. Decorate with Christmas colors and add white or silver glitter to give a snowy or icy look. Or, cover it completely with glitter for a shiny ornament. As a gift, paint the mini house to resemble the recipient's house.

Things You'll Need

• 2 pieces of card stock, 8 by 10
• Pencil
• Scissors
• White glue
• Tape
• Ruler
• Protractor (optional)
• Utility knife (optional)
• Red, green and white paint
• Glitter (optional)

Instructions

1. Lay the paper with the long side horizontal. Measure 2 1/2 inches from the bottom. Use the ruler and pencil to make a straight line across the paper at the 2 1/2 inch mark.

2. Measure 2 1/2 inches from the left side. From that point, measure another 2 1/2 inches. Repeat a third time. With the ruler, draw vertical lines at the marks, yielding four 2 1/2 inch squares.

3. Draw equilateral triangles on top of the second and fourth squares using a ruler, and, if necessary, a protractor to measure the angles at 60 degrees. All lines should be 2 1/2 inches long.The sides with the triangles will support a peaked roof.

4. Cut out the resulting shape. If desired, use a utility knife to cut a door and windows.

5. Fold on the vertical lines, making a house shape. Attach the ends on the inside with tape.

6. Cut a 3 by 6 inch rectangle. Fold in half. Place it on top of the house shape as a roof. Attach on the inside with tape, or line the peaks with glue and set roof on top. Allow to dry.

7. Cut a 3 by 3 inch square as a base. Line the bottom of the house with white glue and set on the base. Allow the glue to dry.

8. Decorate the house with red, green and white paint, or as desired. Allow to dry. Dilute a small amount of glue and apply evenly over the surface. While wet, sprinkle glitter on the house, if desired.

Tips & Warnings

• Try different sizes and shapes by changing the measurements.

• To make houses into ornaments, attach a ribbon to the top with a spot of hot glue.

References

• Craftideas.info: Christmas Paper Tea Light Houses