DIY Thanksgiving Banner + Free Printable

Over the summer, I posted a tutorial for a 4th of July banner, based on one that I'd created for a party I was attending.  It was a huge hit at the party, so I made a similar one for my baby shower last month.  Then earlier this week, I made a Thanksgiving banner based on the same design to hang on our fireplace, and I thought I'd share a tutorial here so you guys can make one too!  This project takes less than fifteen minutes from start to finish, it's inexpensive to make, and it adds a festive touch to Thanksgiving gatherings.  Even if you don't live here in the states or don't celebrate Thanksgiving, it's still a wonderful message to display during the holidays.

I love the look of natural kraft cardstock, but you can use plain white cardstock, colored cardstock, or even matte photo paper.  The same goes for the red and white baker's twine.  I really like the way it looks paired with the kraft paper, but you can use any type of string, twine, or ribbon. 

1. Download the free printable PDF files (there will be three sheets) by clicking on these links: template 1, template 2, and template 3.  Then print each of them on your cardstock using your printer's highest quality setting.

2. Use a paper cutter or scissors to cut each sheet equally into four, making eleven 4.25 x 5.5 pieces. (There will be twelve pieces total, but one will be discarded.)  If you're using scissors rather than a paper cutter, you may want to use a pencil and ruler to create straight lines before cutting.

3. Punch two holes (one in each upper corner) in each of your pieces.

4. Cut 8-10 feet of twine or ribbon, and thread through the holes on each piece of cardstock, starting from the backside.  Make sure you start with the 'G' and thread in order. 

5. Finish threading through all eleven pieces, knot the ends of the twine or ribbon, and hang!

I hope you like this simple, easy holiday project.  If you make one, I'd love to see pictures of it hanging in your home!