I balance my baking with a steady stream of small crafts. For every sheet pan of brownies that comes out of the oven, there’s usually a little project emerging from my craft box in the closet.
Greeting cards, beads, decorations — if it fits in the box, I’ve probably made it. This tissue paper tassel garland is my latest quick and cheerful project.
It’s inexpensive and simple: all you need is tissue paper, some kind of string, and a pair of scissors.
Gather your supplies. Each tassel uses one sheet of tissue paper, so use whatever colors you have on hand — I used gold, navy, and mint green.
Work with one sheet at a time. Fold it in half width-wise, then cut fringe from the open edges toward the fold. Make the fringe about 1/4 inch wide and stop before the fold — leaving roughly 3 inches of the center uncut creates the base for rolling.
Repeat the folding and cutting for each sheet. Unfold the fringed sheets and lay them flat. Next, roll each sheet from the uncut center, like rolling a burrito.
As you roll, occasionally separate and straighten the fringe so it doesn’t tangle. When the roll is complete, tightly twist the center section (don’t rip it — just twist firmly). Form a small loop with the twisted center; the paper will naturally curl and hold the tassel shape.
Thread your tassels onto a length of string or twine, spacing them as you like. Hang the garland across a mantel, around a doorway, or above a dessert table for an instant party accent.
Now you’re ready to celebrate.
If you want simple decor beyond the garland, make a few tiny flower arrangements using inexpensive grocery-store stems and repurposed containers like salt shakers or small jars. They’re charming and budget-friendly.
Set up a simple bar station. Keep an ice bucket handy and have a few cocktail syrups or mixers available for guests. A signature drink or two makes entertaining feel effortless.
My go-to summer cocktail combines bourbon with rosemary-infused lemonade — bright, herbal, and perfect for casual gatherings.
For snacks, consider gougères or another easy bite that can be made in one dough and flavored in two ways so guests have options. Savory finger foods pair well with a drinks-focused gathering.
And for a playful, nostalgic touch, keep a small tray of boozy jello shots chilled for later — they add a lighthearted note to the party.
