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July 4th Paper Photo Backdrop

The 4th of July is right around the corner! To get ready for some July 4th fun, I want to show you how to create an easy banner and backdrop for your Independence Day party. I love these accordion paper circles and the overall vintage, “carnival” look of my banner.

July 4th paper photo backdrop

July 4th paper photo backdrop craft

I enjoy pulling smaller craft elements together to create a photo backdrop. It’s fun trying to find what elements fit together to tell the greater story. The paper circles, made from old books, fans and twine come together to create a vintage style backdrop. All I need is a few hot dogs and ice cream to finish it off!

To create the paper garland, you will need:

  • An old book
  • Twine
  • Craft glue
  • Scrapbook paper
  • Craft knife
  • Scissors
  • Circle cutter

July 4th paper photo backdrop paper

To make one paper fan, start by cutting out two pages from your old book. I used an old poetry book for this part, and the pages were about 5″ x 7.”

July 4th paper photo backdrop prepare the paper

Accordion fold both pages. Make sure each page has the same number of folds.

July 4th paper photo backdrop string

Tie both of the paper folds together with twine. Once knotted, cut off the excess twine.

July 4th paper photo backdrop craft paper

Fold both pages outward to create the circle and spread out each corner of the pinwheel.

July 4th paper photo backdrop diy

Spread out the four corners of the pages and secure the ends together with craft glue to create a circle.

July 4th paper photo backdrop drop

Once the glue is dry, the accordion paper circle is complete. Create multiples of these to make the garland.  You can create a garland with just the book pages, but I decided to add some red and blue circles to display our 4th of July greeting. For this you’ll need the scrapbook paper and a circle cutter.

July 4th paper photo backdrop crafting

Cut two circles, one at 2 1/4″ and 2 1/2.” Layer the two pieces together, with the larger circle on the bottom and the smaller on top.

For some added dimension, use foam tape in between the layers.

July 4th paper photo backdrop layers

Add your lettering on the top layer. I printed and cut out white lettering reading, “Happy 4th.” Attach this element to the center of your paper circle with hot glue and hang it with twine. I didn’t want any holes in our paper garland, so I hot glued the twine on the backside of the paper garland.

July 4th paper photo backdrop hanging

I also decided to hang red, blue and cream vertical fans along the sides of the banner for some extra fun.

July 4th paper photo backdrop decoration

This backdrop is super fun and a great addition to any 4th of July party! I hope everyone has a great holiday spent with family and friends!

Happy DIY!

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