A garland is a simple way to add length and colour to a room. Using recycled materials keeps the cost low and gives children a chance to see that old things can become something new.
Use what you have
Old greeting cards, magazine pages, a roll of brown paper or a box of cardboard shapes all make good garland pieces. Cut them into stars, trees or circles.
String them together
Thread the shapes onto a length of string or twine, spacing them evenly. Tie a knot between each one so they stay in place.
Add greenery
If you have spare branches, tie a few sprigs in between. Dried greenery stays fresh longer than fresh.
Hang it up
Drape the garland along a mantelpiece, a staircase or a window. Use removable hooks so the walls stay in good condition.
Make it a family job
Children can choose the shapes and decide the order. A garland they made is often the first decoration they point out each December.