How To Make Popcorn Garland
Making popcorn garland is a classic and timeless holiday DIY project that adds a charming, rustic touch to your Christmas tree or decor. This step by step tutorial will show you everything you need to know when making popcorn garland.
Yield: 1 garland
Cost: $1
Equipment
- 1 Regular Sewing Needle (large enough for popcorn to pass through)
- 1 24 Gauge wire (works best), firm thread, fishing wire, or line
- 1 Scissors or wire cutters
Materials
- 3 cups Popped popcorn (unbuttered and unsalted)
- 1 cup Cranberries, dried orange slices, or other decorative elements Optional
Instructions
- Pop enough popcorn, ensuring it is plain and free from butter or salt. Freshly popped popcorn works best for threading. 3 cups of popcorn makes approximately a 3' garland.
- Prepare the thread by cutting a length of 24 gauge wire, strong thread, or fishing line to your desired garland length.
- Thread a large needle with the chosen wire, leaving a few inches at one end for tying knots or loop ends.
- Tie a secure double knot or loop at the end of the thread or wire to prevent the popcorn from sliding off. Making a loop works best as your garland will already be hangable.
- Begin to thread the first piece of popcorn by taking the needle and carefully piercing the center of a popcorn kernel. Sometimes, the easiest way is to poke a hole through the pieces of popcorn but not push the needle completely through. Then, simply thread the wire through the hole and slide the popcorn down the wire or thread until it reaches the knot. Repeat this process for each popcorn kernel.
- For extra flair, add some decorative elements. Intersperse the popcorn with cranberries, dried orange slices, or other festive elements. Thread these decorations onto the string along with the popcorn. (Optional)
- Repeat the process until you achieve the desired length of popcorn garland. Be mindful of the weight distribution if you are using berries or other ornaments to prevent sagging.
- Once you've reached the desired length, tie a secure large knot or a loop at the end of the garland to keep the last piece in place.
- Now, simply hang your popcorn garland on the Christmas tree, fireplace mantel, or any other area you want to infuse with a cozy, handmade aesthetic.
Notes
- Use recently popped popcorn for easier threading.
- A needle with a large eye will make it easier to thread the popcorn.
- A longer wire or thread allows for flexibility in adjusting the length of the garland later but can tangle more easily.
- If threading becomes challenging, pre-pierce the kernels with a toothpick before threading them onto the string.
- Use a sturdy, thick needle and a thin wire, strong thread, or fishing line for stringing the popcorn.
- Store the popcorn garland in a cool, dry place when not in use to maintain its freshness.