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Ideal Home reports that handmade paper chains and similar linked garlands are appearing as a nostalgic Christmas decorating idea for 2026. The trend includes paper as well as materials such as velvet, lace and wool, though the report offers no social-media data to measure how widespread it is.
Handmade Christmas chains, from traditional paper loops to versions made with velvet, lace or wool, are being presented as a nostalgic decorating trend for 2026 in a report by Ideal Home. The idea offers a low-cost craft for households looking to add handmade details to seasonal decor, although the report does not provide data showing how widespread the trend is on social media.
The appeal is a mix of childhood associations, affordability and a simple making process. Ideal Home describes paper chains as an accessible decoration that can be made at home, rather than an item that requires a major purchase. The report also places the craft within a broader interest in Christmas schemes that feel playful and personal.
The look is not limited to coloured paper. Ideal Home says similar linked decorations are appearing in velvet, lace, wool and sheet music. These materials keep the familiar looped shape but add texture, and may suit more traditional or Victorian-inspired holiday rooms. Whether such garlands can be reused depends on their construction and care.
For a basic chain, Natalie Evans, founder and CEO of home styling and staging company Little Barn Door, recommends cutting strips about 2 centimetres wide and 15 to 20 centimetres long. Each strip is looped through the previous one and secured with glue, a staple or double-sided tape. The method can be adapted for paper or suitable fabric, though heavier materials may need a stronger fastening.
A Low-Cost Handmade Decoration
The craft matters mainly as a practical option for people who want to refresh seasonal decor without buying a full set of ornaments. Paper chains can be made from materials already at home, and the process can involve several people, making the finished decoration personal as well as functional. The report presents that family activity as part of the appeal, rather than offering evidence that it has become a dominant decorating choice.
Material choices also affect how the idea fits into a home. Paper offers a lightweight, inexpensive version, while velvet or lace can create a softer, more textured appearance. Chains can be hung on a tree or mantel, or arranged overhead. Any ceiling display should be secured appropriately, with care taken not to block lights, exits or other fixtures.
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Nostalgia Shapes Holiday Styling
Ideal Home frames the chain trend within a wider preference for nostalgic and whimsical Christmas interiors. The report describes a move toward colourful, personal details rather than schemes that are perfectly coordinated. It links that mood to the term “whimsymaxxing,” used to describe adding joyful or unexpected elements to everyday spaces.
Whinnie Williams, an interior designer and trends forecaster for Balsam Hill, says paper decorations are having another moment and argues that a considered colour palette can make handmade chains look polished. She also points to honeycomb paper garlands as an alternative that can fold down for storage. The article’s examples and expert comments provide styling perspectives, not independent market research or sales figures.
“With the right colour palette, they can look incredibly chic too!”
— Whinnie Williams, interior designer and trends forecaster for Balsam Hill
How Broad Is the Trend?
The report does not cite social-media counts, search data, sales figures or a survey to establish how common the trend is. Its description of chains appearing across social platforms is an observation in the article, not a measured finding. The scale of interest among households, and whether it will continue beyond the 2026 season, remains unclear.
It is also not clear how durable every material version is. Paper, fabric and heavier trims have different storage and fastening needs, and the report does not compare their cost, longevity or safety. Its suggested dimensions and fastenings are general craft guidance, not a tested product specification.
Making and Displaying a Chain
Readers who want to try the idea can start with the simple paper version, using strips, adhesive and a colour palette that suits their room. A family activity can be organized around cutting and linking the strips, while fabric or sheet music offers alternatives for a more textured finish. The finished garland can be used on a tree or mantel, or draped from a central point as Williams suggests.
For overhead displays, use suitable attachment points and keep chains clear of heat sources, lights and walkways. Beyond these practical steps, the next indication of the trend’s reach will be whether more homes, retailers or seasonal design coverage adopt it; the source report does not specify a forthcoming survey or other formal milestone.
Key Questions
What is the Christmas decorating trend described in the report?
It is the use of handmade linked garlands, especially traditional paper chains, as nostalgic Christmas decorations. The report also describes versions made with velvet, lace, wool and sheet music.
How do you make a basic paper chain?
Natalie Evans recommends cutting strips around 2 centimetres wide and 15 to 20 centimetres long. Loop each strip through the previous one and secure it with glue, a staple or double-sided tape.
Is the trend confirmed to be widespread on social media?
No. Ideal Home describes seeing linked decorations on social media, but the report provides no platform data or counts to measure how widespread the trend is.
Where can Christmas chains be displayed?
The report suggests using them on a Christmas tree or mantel, or hanging garlands from a central point toward the walls for an overhead display. Keep any hanging decoration clear of heat sources, lights and walkways.
Source: idealhome.co.uk
