Make colorful paper garlands, banners, and simple balloon clusters using scissors, tape, string, and markers to decorate a party space creatively and safely.



Step-by-step guide to decorate for a party
Step 1
Gather all the materials from the list and put them on the table.
Step 2
Clear a clean flat workspace where you can cut and build safely.
Step 3
Choose a fun color scheme from your papers and balloons.
Step 4
Decide where you want garlands banners and balloon clusters to go in the party space.
Step 5
Cut the construction paper into equal shapes or strips for garlands.
Step 6
Tape each paper shape to the string to make a garland and keep going until it is the length you want.
Step 7
Cut triangle flags from the paper to make a banner.
Step 8
Use markers to write one letter on each flag to spell your party message.
Step 9
Tape the flags to a string to finish your banner.
Step 10
Inflate balloons one at a time with adult help.
Step 11
Tie balloons together in clusters of two or three by twisting the necks together.
Step 12
Attach each garland to the chosen spots using tape so they hang nicely.
Step 13
Attach the banner to its chosen spot using tape so the letters are easy to read.
Step 14
Secure balloon clusters by taping them or tying them to chairs weights or table legs so they stay put.
Step 15
Share your finished creation on DIY.org.
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!


Help!?
Can we substitute any hard-to-find materials like construction paper, balloons, string, or tape?
If you don't have construction paper, use printer paper or gift wrap cut into strips, replace balloons with paper pom-poms or crepe-paper puffs, and swap yarn or ribbon for string and masking tape for tape.
What should we do if garlands don't hang straight, the tape doesn't stick, or balloons keep popping/deflating?
If garlands sag, fold tape over the string behind each paper shape and add extra strips, clean the hanging surface so tape sticks better, and check balloons for holes or rub them on fabric to reduce static before tying clusters tightly and anchoring them with tape or weights.
How can we adapt the activity for different ages (toddlers, elementary, older kids)?
For toddlers, pre-cut the shapes and let them choose colors and stick pieces with adult help; elementary kids can cut, write letters on flags, and assemble garlands, while older kids can design measured patterns, complex banner messages, and arrange balloon clusters.
How can we extend or personalize the decorations beyond the basic garlands, banners, and balloon clusters?
Personalize by drawing with markers or adding stickers and photos to each flag, glue sequins or ribbon to garlands, incorporate LED fairy lights behind banners, or create themed shapes to hang before sharing the finished creation on DIY.org.
Watch videos on how to decorate for a party
Facts about party decorating for kids
✂️ Paper chains became a popular, inexpensive holiday and party decoration in Victorian times.
🎈 Balloons were once made from animal bladders before rubber made them stretchy and widely used for parties.
🎉 Designers often group decorations in odd numbers (3 or 5) because odd-numbered clusters look balanced and lively.
🎌 The word "bunting" originally referred to a lightweight woolen cloth used for flags and ship signals.
🎨 Warm colors like red, orange, and yellow are often used in party decor because they boost energy and excitement.


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