Plaid Inspired Paper Weave
Looking for a simple twist on the classic paper weave? This plaid inspired project swaps the typical pattern and gives it a textile-inspired look. Grab two of your favorite contrasting colors, and let’s dive into the steps!
Supplies:
2 pieces of different colored construction paper (tutorial uses 9/12 inch)
Scissors or craft knife (with cutting mat)
Ruler
Pencil
Clear tape or a glue stick
Step 1: Option 1 - Cutting The Base Using Scissors
Begin by folding the paper vertically (top to bottom; aka the hamburger fold).
Using your rule, measure ½ inches on each from the open side of the fold. Draw a line connecting the points.
Measure and mark a repeating ¾ inch, then ¼ inch pattern on the line that was drawn. Repeat on the folded side of the paper.
Connect the marks using the pencil to create vertical lines.
Cut on the vertical lines. Remember not to cut past the horizontal drawn line.
Step 1: Option 2 - Cutting The Base Using a Craft Knife
Using your ruler, measure ½ inches on each end of the horizontal sides. Draw a line connecting the points.
Measure and mark a repeating ¾ inch, then ¼ inch pattern on the line that was drawn.
Connect the marks using the pencil to create vertical lines.
Cut on the vertical lines using the craft knife and ruler. Remember not to cut past the horizontal drawn line.
Using a craft knife for the first time? Need some reminders? Check out my Cut with Confidence: Essential Craft Knife Safety Tips blog post for everything craft knife!
Step 2: Making the Strips
Using a scissors or craft knife, cut ¾ inch and ¼ inch thick horizontal strips from the other piece of construction paper.
If needed, measure and mark the strips lengths using a ruler and pencil.
I used 9, ¾ inch strips and 8, ¼ inch strips.
Step 3: Begin Weaving
Take a ¾ inch thick paper strip and begin weaving it through the vertical strips. Using the pattern: over, then under, then over, then under.
Take a ¼ inch thick paper strip and weave it through the opposite vertical strips using the same over, then under, then over, then under pattern.
Continue rotating the ¾ inch and ¼ inch strip pattern until your weave reaches your desired length
Step 4: Option 1 - Securing the Loose Ends with a Glue Stick
Apply a small amount of glue stick to the loose ends of your woven strips and press them firmly onto the back of your base paper.
Step 4: Option 2 - Securing the Loose Ends with Clear Packing Tape
Carefully turn your finished weave over.
Completely cover the entire back of the weave with clear tape.
This will hold everything securely in place.
Trim any excess tape from the edges.
