I was inspired to create an easy DIY wreath using colorful packing paper. It’s a simple, budget-friendly way to upcycle wrapping paper, shipping paper, or Kraft paper into charming home decor.
Alongside my frequent furniture painting projects, I enjoy browsing blogs for fresh ideas. I found a lovely farmhouse-style Kraft paper wreath on Tanya’s blog, Twelve O Eight, and decided to make my own version with a colorful twist.
Materials Needed
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- Cardboard (to cut a wreath base)
- Plates or circular templates to trace shapes
- Scissors
- Lots of packing paper or Kraft paper
- Acrylic paints in your chosen colors
- Optional: light finishing wax (for sheen)
- Twine (for texture)
- Burlap ribbon (for hanging)
How to Make an Easy DIY Wreath
I keep my DIYs frugal, so instead of buying a foam wreath form I cut a donut-shaped base from cardboard. Use two circular templates of different sizes—a large plate and a smaller plate work well—to trace the outer and inner circles. Cut both out to form your base.
I had accumulated a stack of packing paper from deliveries, so this project felt perfect for using up that supply. If you keep small amounts of paper from packages, this makes for a satisfying upcycle.
Cut each sheet of packing paper in half lengthwise to form long strips. Twist each strip tightly along its length to create sturdy, rope-like strands. These twisted strips will form the texture of the wreath.
Wrap the twisted paper around the cardboard base, twisting as you go to keep the strands secure. I didn’t need glue—when attaching a new piece I slid one twisted end into another and twisted them together, tucking the final end under the wrapped layers for a neat finish.
The result was a full, textured wreath that looked substantial and finished without any adhesives. If you prefer a farmhouse look, keep the paper unpainted as natural Kraft paper; for a brighter look, paint the surface.
For my version I added color. I started with a base of green, mixed in some darker tones by blending green with black, and then added a soft blue for depth. When dry, I rubbed a small amount of white finishing wax over the surface to give a subtle sheen and a slightly weathered effect.
Painting tips: use watered-down acrylics for light washes so the paper texture remains visible, or layer paints for more saturated color. Allow plenty of drying time before handling.
Once the paint dried, I wrapped twine around the wreath for extra texture and contrast. Finally, I attached a loop of burlap ribbon as a hanger so I could display the wreath on a curtain rod, door, or wall.
I hung two wreaths in my living room and considered adding a third in the center for a layered display. You can mix sizes and colors to create visual interest or keep them uniform for a cleaner look.
This project is a great example of upcycling: inexpensive materials, minimal tools, and creative results. It’s easy to customize—change the colors, swap twine for ribbon, or add small faux florals for seasonal flair. Best of all, if you tire of the look, the wreath is lightweight and simple to store or repurpose.
Give this packing paper wreath a try if you want an affordable, eco-friendly way to refresh your decor. It’s forgiving, customizable, and a fun way to use up leftover packaging materials.
Have fun experimenting with color and texture—this simple packing paper wreath is a low-commitment way to add personality to any room.
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