How to Make a Popcorn Garland for the Tree
String plain popcorn and cranberries on thread to make a classic homemade garland. It is a cheap, old-fashioned craft kids can do on a cozy evening.
Ages6+Time1 hour
What You Need
A popcorn garland is plain popcorn and cranberries threaded onto a long string. It takes patience, which makes it a nice quiet activity with a movie.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pop the corn without butter or salt and let it sit out overnight.
- Cut a piece of thread about 4 feet long. Longer strings tangle.
- Tie a big knot at one end and thread the needle on the other.
- Push the needle through a piece of popcorn, then a cranberry, and slide them down.
- Repeat in a pattern, such as two popcorn and one cranberry.
- Fill the thread, leaving 4 inches empty, and tie off.
- Join strings together for a longer garland and drape on the tree.
Tips for Little Hands
- The needle is sharp. An adult should help younger kids.
- Pick out whole kernels and unpopped hard pieces first.
- Make extra popcorn for snacking, since it will disappear.
- Do not hang it where pets can reach it.
Make It Your Own
- Add dried orange slices for color.
- Dye popcorn with a drop of food coloring in a bag.
- Hang the finished garland on an outdoor tree for birds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should popcorn be stale for a garland?
Day-old popcorn is a bit tougher, so it is less likely to crumble when the needle goes through.
How long does a popcorn garland last?
Indoors it lasts about 2 to 3 weeks. Outdoors it makes a snack for birds and squirrels.
Should popcorn for a garland have butter?
No. Use plain, unsalted, air-popped popcorn. Butter makes it greasy and hard to thread.
