I changed things up this week with a Tuesday party and finished off with a playful DIY project today—DIY embroidered party hats. These turned out even better than I expected. If the idea of sewing or embroidery makes you nervous, don’t worry: these are really simple. Best of all, the embroidery is done on paper, not fabric, so they’re quick to make and sturdy enough for a party. You can personalize them for kids or adults with letters, numbers, shapes, or any design you like. Grab some colorful cardstock and contrasting embroidery floss, and you’re ready to go.
(I don’t have kids to model these yet, but my curious dog made for a cute assistant.)
Supplies
Cardstock
Party hat template
Templates for shapes, letters, or numbers (print outlines from your computer)
Embroidery floss
Large embroidery needle
Pencil
Scissors (and an X-Acto knife if you have one)
Pom poms or tissue for the topper
Hot glue
How to make the hats
1. Cut the party hat template from your cardstock. Trace the hat shape and then reverse any design you plan to embroider so it appears correctly on the front.
2. Transfer your design by tracing it on the back of the cardstock. Use the needle tip to poke evenly spaced holes around the outline of the design.
3. Thread a long, doubled length of embroidery floss through the needle and knot one end. Using a simple backstitch (or another basic stitch you prefer), sew along the holes to form your design. The backstitch is straightforward and creates a solid embroidered line.
4. When you finish stitching, knot the thread on the back and trim the excess.
5. Form the hat by rolling the cardstock into a cone and slipping the tab into the slit. Secure the shape so it holds firmly.
6. Add a fastener by poking a hole on each side near the base, threading ribbon or elastic through, and tying knots on the inside to secure. For a decorative topper, hot glue a pom pom to the top or fringe a small piece of tissue, roll it, and glue it inside the top hole.
These embroidered paper party hats are a fun, customizable way to dress up any celebration. Use different paper textures, color combinations, or mix stitched letters with shapes for a cohesive theme. They’re a great craft for party prep, and make charming keepsakes or photo props. Have fun experimenting with colors and patterns, and don’t hesitate to try a few practice stitches on scrap cardstock before stitching your final design.
All photos by Studio DIY
For more DIY inspiration, explore DIY project galleries and free printable collections to expand your craft ideas.