How to make a door hanger

Oct 15, 2012 6:25 AM by Chriselle Asuma-Irion

Posted in How-To / Home How-tos / Decorating How-tos

DIY craft

How to… create a door hanger

Door hangers are no longer just for hotel rooms – they’ve found their way onto kids’ bedroom doors. DIY door hangers are not only a fun way to decorate your home but they’re also a functional way to remind your kids of their daily chores.

What you’ll need

2 pieces of cardstock paper
double-sided tape
craft markers
string
scissors
hole punch
laminator or clear contact paper

Step 1: Cut it out

Pick out a design of the cardstock you would like to use. Bright colors and prints are fun and are sure to catch your kid's attention. Measure and cut out a square from sheet of cardstock and write a note using your craft markers. This note could simply be your child's name or something along the lines of "Shhh, sleeping" or "Caution: Girls only/" For more variety, feel free to use texture scissors to cut the edges and experiment with sticker lettering.

Step 2: Double it up

Cut another square identical to the first from another sheet of cardstock. You can pick a design scheme identical to the first or a contrasting design scheme for some variety. Write another note, for example, "morning chores" or "daily duties" that need to be completed.

Step 3: Tape them together

Make sure the cards line up and use double-sided tape to connect the squares. Lay the first sheet face=down and apply the tape to the back of the card. With the other card face up, place it on top of the first, coming down on an angle to make sure they're even. Then punch holes toward the top of the joined cards, making sure that they are even from each side.

Step 4: Laminate

To make the door hangers last, it is important to laminate the card. Not only does it protect the cards but it also increases their functionality, allowing you to write on the card and use it as a checklist. If you don't have a laminator, clear contact paper serves the same purpose.

Step 5: Braid and connect

Cut three pieces of string and pull through the first hole. Pick different colors and experiment with different types of braids to create a design you like. A neon string scheme adds flair to the door hanger and will always catch your child's eye. Braid the string until it reaches the second hole punch. Pull it through and secure with a knot.