Instructions for Making Tissue Paper Banners

Use any colors of tissue paper you want for your banner.

Make colorful banners for your next party with tissue paper. The process stems from the ancient Aztec tradition of "papel picado," where paper was cut to the likeness of the gods to pay homage for special events and occasions. Today, tissue paper is a modern way to celebrate this ancient tradition to add a personal touch to your party decor. Even children can get involved in making the tissue paper banners.

Things You'll Need

• String
• Scissors
• Tissue paper
• White glue

Instructions

1. Lay out the length of string that you will need for your banner. To decide, pull the string across the doorway or wall you are covering, and cut the excess length off with scissors.

2. Select the colors of tissue paper you want to use for your banner. Lay the pieces of tissue paper across the length of the sting (horizontally) with about an inch of space between each. This will show you how many sheets of the tissue paper you need.

3. Fold each sheet of tissue paper twice and draw small shapes over one side. Draw triangles, squares, diamonds and circles.

4. Cut the shapes out of each of the folded sheets of tissue paper and then unfold them to reveal a repeated pattern, similar to what you get when making paper snowflakes.

5. Line the sheets of tissue paper along the string, as you did when deciding how many sheets to use. Make a 1/2-inch fold at the top edge of each sheet and place the folds of all of the sheets of tissue paper over the string.

6. Apply a layer of white glue to hold the folds down over the string. Allow the glue to dry before hanging your banner.

References

• PBSKids: Papel Picado
• Education: Papel Picado---Create Colorful Tissue Paper Banners