Weddingbee Blog

I can’t take any credit for the awesome fringed letters from my shower, but my sisters (MOH K and BM A) did a great job documenting the process, so I just have to share! These letters would be awesome at a reception on the gift or sweetheart table, or maybe as a prop for engagement photos. You could make any letter, symbol, or number that your little heart desires. The cost of making these at home is cheaper than buying a plain wood letter at Michaels…

Step 1:

Find your font. Then follow Miss Panda’s instructions to make a 3D cardboard number (letter).

You should end up with something like this:

(We did not use rocks and they worked out fine, but if you are going to use these outside where there is wind, it is probably a good idea. )

Step 2:

Sturdy him up!

Cut strips of paper (computer paper is fine) and dip into a mixture of water and flour. Wrap completely around the letters. Feel free to repeat multiple layers if you want it to be really sturdy.

**It is OK if the papier mache is lumpy or uneven—it will be completely covered! This is not the moment to be a perfectionist.

Papier mache master…

You should end up with something like this:

Step 3: Use tissue paper in your favorite color to cover the back and sides of the letter. Try to use a continuous piece and put the tape on the front since this will ultimately be covered.

Step 4: Now comes the fun. Cut small strips of tissue paper about two inches wide and the length of your letter. (This will vary depending where you will place it on the letter. For example, the bottom of a “T” needs a much smaller strip than the top of a “T”). Fold the paper in half so it is only one inch wide.

Step 5: With the help of these amazing fringe scissors, have a fringe fest! Since you folded the strip in half, you will cut through two layers.

Martha Stewart Fringe Scissors via Amazon / My sister got one at Michaels for around $7 with coupon.

Step 6: You should have a bunch of strips like the ones below.

Step 7: Starting at the bottom of the letter, tape each fringe strip to the letter. As you add the next layer be sure to fully cover the tape from the section below.

Step 8: When you get to the last strip, use double-sided tape.

Step 9: Ooh and ahh…

…because you just rocked out a DIY project for super cheap and it looks ah-ma-zing!!