Paper crafting opens up many possibilities to show your creativity, changing simple sheets into stunning works of art. As someone who’s into folding, cutting, and shaping paper, I love these crafts.

I’ve seen that these projects can bring both beauty and functionality to your space, and the best part? You probably already have most of the materials you need at home.

Aesthetic DIY Crafts with Paper

1. Paper Flowers

These are the best flowers, as they never wilt or fade, so take crepe paper in your chosen colors, and cut petal shapes of different sizes. Layer them from largest to smallest, then twist the base to form the stem.

Add green paper leaves for extra realism. You could make these for weddings, and guests wouldn’t believe they weren’t real flowers.

2. Origami Light Shade

Try changing a plain pendant light into something special. Fold square papers into simple geometric shapes, and connect them using clear fishing line.

Watch as light filters through the paper, creating magical shadows on your walls. It takes about thirty pieces to make a decent-sized shade.

3. Paper Woven Basket

Weave strips of thick paper together, the technique is similar to basket weaving. Reinforce the base with cardboard.

Fold the edges over for a clean finish. These baskets are surprisingly sturdy, and they’re perfect for organizing desk supplies or bathroom essentials.

4. Marbled Paper Art

Float oil-based paints on water. Swirl them with a toothpick to create patterns. Lay paper on the surface. The paint transfers instantly.

Each piece comes out unique. Frame your favorites or use them as book covers.

5. Paper Butterflies

Cut butterfly shapes from old book pages, and then fold the wings slightly upward for dimension. Arrange them on a canvas in a flying pattern.

It’s like having a piece of spring indoors all year round, the text on the wings adds an interesting literary element.

6. Rolled Paper Wall Hanging

Roll strips of paper tightly, with varying the lengths, and arrange them in a pattern on a dowel. The rolls create amazing texture and shadow play.

Paint the tips gold for extra glamour, it’s modern art that costs almost nothing to make.

7. Paper Lanterns

Fold paper into accordion pleats, form a circle and secure the ends. Add a battery-operated tea light, and string several together for parties.

The warm glow through the paper creates incredible ambiance.

8. Quilled Name Art

Roll thin strips of paper into coils. Shape them into letters, and mount them on contrasting paper.

The intricate curves and swirls make stunning personalized artwork, it takes patience, but the results are worth it.

9. Hanging Paper Stars

Create three-dimensional stars from paper strips. Add string for hanging, and make them in different sizes.

Group them together for maximum impact. I think that they’re especially magical during holiday seasons.

10. Paper Feathers

Cut feather shapes from watercolor paper, paint with soft washes of color, and add details with fine lines.

String them together for a bohemian wall hanging. They move beautifully in the slightest breeze.

Related: 17 Genius DIY Paper Plate Crafts

11. Paper Leaf Garland

Cut leaves in different shapes and sizes from colored or textured paper. Add vein details with a pen or embossing tool.

String them together to make a garland that works beautifully as decor for parties, weddings, or even just your bedroom. It brings a touch of nature indoors.

12. Tissue Paper Pom-Poms

Layer sheets of tissue paper, fold them into an accordion, and secure the middle with a wire or string. Fluff out the layers to form a pom-pom.

Hang these above party tables or in clusters for a whimsical, airy vibe. They’re super affordable and so fun to make.

13. Book Page Wreath

Roll old book pages into cones, then hot glue them in layers onto a cardboard circle.

The result is a vintage-style wreath that looks perfect on any door or wall. Add a bow or flowers for a seasonal touch.

14. Layered Paper Mandala Art

Cut intricate mandala designs from paper using a craft knife. Layer them on top of each other with foam dots for a 3D effect.

The depth and detail of these mandalas make them mesmerizing as wall art or gifts.

15. Paper Windmills

Fold square pieces of paper diagonally, snip halfway along the folds, and secure the corners to the center with a pin.

Stick them on dowels, and you’ve got playful decorations for kids’ parties or outdoor spaces. They spin beautifully in the breeze!

16. Paper Rosette Garland

Fold paper into accordion strips, connect the ends to form circles, and flatten them into rosettes.

String them together to make a garland, or use them as individual decorations for gift wraps or backdrops.

Conclusion

Make sure to start with the simpler projects and work your way up to more complex ones. Remember, paper craft is about patience and precision, so just take your time with each fold and cut.

Soon you’ll have a collection of handmade pieces that add personality and charm to your space, the satisfaction of creating something beautiful from simple paper is truly unmatched.