Craft Time: Paper Christmas Lights Garland

I found this adorable craft idea from Stubbornly Crafty as it circulated through my social media feed, and I thought this would be the perfect photo prop for outdoor Christmas tree farm sessions.  Lights without the lights!  Genius!  Plus, this will make a great addition to the rest of my brightly colored Christmas decor throughout my house.  The directions seemed easy enough, and I wouldn't need to put too much money into this little project, so this craft was a winner for me.

The photo sessions I want to use this prop for are scheduled for tomorrow.  Naturally, wanting to be prepared, I bought the supplies tonight - the night before!  Ha!  No big deal, I thought.  It's just cutting some paper.

So, this was just cutting paper and punching holes, but the gray top pieces took some major time.  Part of the problem was I could only cut a couple of pieces of card stock at a time.  Another contributing factor to my dismay was my cheap hole puncher.  My hand was hurting!  Nevertheless, I pushed through the pain - somehow - and got the job done.  

I'm a little skeptical about how well the shape will hold up, but ultimately, this is a bright and fun garland that can be used many different ways.  Also, the kids could definitely help make this craft.  I suggest giving them the hole puncher!  ;)  All kidding aside, my four year old would have no problems folding the paper or stringing the lights onto the twine.  My little one has been in the bed for a few hours now, so she has no idea what I was doing with the colored paper.  I'm thinking this would be a great way to bring back our Elf on the Shelf since she hasn't joined us yet.

I can't wait to see my girl's face in the morning!  She is going to love this!  Stay tuned for images from my photo sessions, too.

'Til next time...