Add a touch of rustic charm to your holiday decor with a simple and fun-to-make Christmas rag banner! This scrappy garland is perfect for draping across your mantel, windows, or tree.
You’ll Need:
- Yarn or string
- Tape measure
- Fabric scissors
- A heavy object (like a thick book)
- Fabric strips
- Wooden beads
To make:
- Gather Fabric Strips: Cut fabric strips about 16 inches long and 1 inch wide. A little variety in width (from 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches) can add texture and character to the banner.
- Layout Your Colors and Textures: Start laying them out as you gather or cut your fabric strips. Mix and match colors, patterns, and textures to get a feel for the final look.
- Measure and Cut Strips: For a garland that spans 6 feet, you’ll need approximately 240 strips of fabric. You can add more or less depending on how long you want your banner to be.
Assembling the Banner:
- Prepare the String: Reel a long lead of yarn or string and place it on a flat surface. Secure one end with a heavy object, like a thick book, to keep it taut and in place.
- Tie the Strips: Fold each fabric strip in half. Hold the string taut with your left hand. With your right hand, position the folded strip across the string, with the fold facing to the right. Create a “birdie beak” with your right hand and poke through the loop under the string. Grab the two tails of the fabric strip and pull them through the loop, securing the fabric to the string. Continue until your garland is full.
- Finishing Touches: Make a loop at each end of the garland for easy hanging. Cover the knots with wooden beads or festive accents for added charm if desired.
Display and Enjoy!
Hang your rag banner across your fireplace, stair railings, or over doorways to add cozy, handmade flair to your holiday setup. This project is simple, customizable, and a great way to use up fabric scraps while creating beautiful, personalized decor. Happy crafting!
You can find more holiday recipes and crafts on our farm blog!
