Christmas Paper Chains- Free Printable

Paper chains are one of the most nostalgic Christmas decorations there are. Whether you’re making a countdown, tree garland or something to display in your windows, they’re easy and kids can make them by themselves or with a little adult help. This festive twist on the classic paper chain craft makes fun shapes that they can make a banner or garland with.

Below you will find a pdf file you can download to print. We’ve included a Christmas tree, star and snowflake in the Christmas paper chain template. You will want to make sure to have an adult handy to help with the cutting depending on the age of the child. I will be the first to admit I’ve cut a few right where they would be connected, so make sure to help so kiddos don’t get frustrated.

How to Use This Template

This template is for personal and educational use only. Feel free to use it as home, in your church or in your classroom. It is not intended for commercial use. If you use our template, please link back to this page.

Paper chains shaped likes stars, trees and snowflakes.

Christmas Paper Chain Printable

One really fun thing about this craft is that kids can use normal paper or construction paper, and it’s great for fine motor skills. If you’re following the directions below, each ‘chain’ will have three shapes on it, so 6 shapes per page of construction paper.

Christmas Paper Chain Craft

Ready to make your Christmas craft? Follow these steps!

Supplies Needed

Christmas Paper Chain Template download
Yellow, green and blue construction paper (assorted paper pack)
scissors
scotch tape– to combine chains

Steps to Making Your Paper Chain

Take a normal piece of construction paper and cut it in half lengthwise. Or hotdog. (Anyone else still use this to explain folding paper or just me?)

Cut out your guide and set it to the side.

green construction paper cut in half length wise on counter.

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Fold the paper in half again.

construction paper folded in half to make paper chain.

Next, fold the paper into thirds. Make an accordian styled fold.

green construction paper on counter showing fold lines.

Take your cut out template or guide, and line up on the paper. When you line up, you want the edge/center of the tree to be lined up against the folded edges. That way when you cut it will attach to another half and not cut the tree in half.

Finally, cut out your template. Be sure not to cut the connecting piece of paper- for the tree you can see the last tree branch is where the trees will connect. Trim the bottom and excess paper on the other sides.