The Linking Paper Clip Trick
Link paper clips into a chain using a folded paper tab and gentle twisting to weave them together while exploring patterns and fine motor skills.
About this activity
Link paper clips into a chain using a folded paper tab and gentle twisting to weave them together while exploring patterns and fine motor skills.
What you need
Step by step
- 1
Step 1
Gather your paper clips and a sheet of paper and sit at a clear table.
- 2
Step 2
Choose one paper clip to be your very first link.
- 3
Step 3
Fold the paper into a narrow tab about as wide as the loop of a paper clip.
- 4
Step 4
Slide one end of the folded paper tab between the two inner loops of the chosen paper clip.
- 5
Step 5
Gently twist the paper tab to nudge the paper clip open a tiny gap.
- 6
Step 6
Slide a second paper clip through the tiny gap so it loops onto the first clip.
- 7
Step 7
Pull the paper tab out to release the two linked paper clips.
- 8
Step 8
Insert the paper tab into the inner loops of the most recently added clip.
- 9
Step 9
Twist the tab gently to open a small gap in that newest clip.
- 10
Step 10
Slide another paper clip through the gap to add it to your chain.
- 11
Step 11
Repeat Steps 8 to 10 to make your chain as long as you like.
- 12
Step 12
Choose paper clips in different colors or sizes to create a repeating pattern as you add them.
- 13
Step 13
Share your finished paper clip chain on DIY.org.
Fun facts
How do I do the Linking Paper Clip Trick with a folded paper tab?
Fold a small paper tab by folding a strip of paper twice so it’s stiff and narrow. Grip one paper clip against the tab, bend the clip’s end gently outward with your thumb to open a small space, then thread the next clip through that gap and twist it closed by rolling it around the tab. Repeat, using the folded tab as a steady base. Work slowly, practicing gentle twists and alternating directions to build a tidy chain and explore simple patterns.
What materials do I need for the Linking Paper Clip Trick?
You’ll need a handful of paper clips (standard and jumbo sizes work), a strip of paper or light cardstock to fold into a small tab, and a flat workspace. Optional materials: needle-nose pliers for tighter twists, a tray to keep clips contained, and colored markers to mark pattern sequences. Keep scissors nearby only if you need to cut the paper strip; otherwise no cutting is required.
What ages is the Linking Paper Clip Trick suitable for?
This activity suits children about 4 years and up with supervision—juniors benefit from jumbo clips. Ages 6–10 enjoy the fine motor challenge and pattern work independently. Younger kids need close adult help to avoid pokes or swallowing risks. Teenagers can use smaller clips and try more complex patterns or make jewelry. Adjust clip size and supervision level to match each child’s dexterity and attention span.
What are the benefits and safety tips for the Linking Paper Clip Trick?
Linking paper clips builds fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, patience, and early pattern recognition. It’s low-cost and easy to repeat. Safety tips: supervise young children to prevent swallowing or poking, use jumbo clips for small hands, keep a tidy workspace to avoid scattered metal, and teach gentle twisting to prevent sharp edges. For variation, try color patterns, timed chaining games, or making simple wearable chains with larger clips.
Watch & Learn
Need help?
What can I use if I don't have a sheet of paper or the exact paper clips mentioned?
If you don't have a sheet of paper, cut a thin strip from a magazine, receipt, or printer paper and fold it into a narrow tab about as wide as a paper clip loop (Step 2), and if standard paper clips are missing try similarly sized binder-style clips or small key rings that will accept another clip's loop.
The paper keeps tearing or the clip won't open—what should I try differently?
If the paper tears in Step 5 or the clip won't open, refold a narrower, double-thick tab as in Step 2 and insert it between the inner loops more gently while twisting slowly to nudge only a tiny gap (Steps 4–5).
How can I adapt this activity for different ages?
For preschoolers, have an adult pre-fold the paper tab (Step 2) and pre-open the first clip slightly so the child can complete Step 6, while older kids can work independently to make longer chains and deliberate color patterns (Step 11).
How can we make the paper clip chain more creative or useful after making it?
To enhance the outcome, alternate colored or sized clips as in Step 11 to create repeating patterns, add beads or ribbon to the finished chain to turn it into a bracelet or garland, and then photograph your design to share on DIY.org (Step 12).