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Hunker reports that HGTV’s Erin Napier shared a photo of a colorful paper chain draped across her daughter’s window as a playful alternative to a traditional valance. The inexpensive project uses cardstock, scissors and tape or glue, though the report does not give a cost estimate or say Napier formally endorsed a product or tutorial.
HGTV Home Town co-host Erin Napier shared an Instagram photo of a colorful paper chain draped across a window in her young daughter’s room, and Hunker has turned the look into an inexpensive DIY idea for adding color to windows without replacing curtains or blinds. The project uses cardstock, scissors and tape or glue; Hunker does not provide a price estimate or say Napier formally endorsed a particular tutorial or product.
In the photo described by Hunker, the chain serves as a playful window valance above textured drapes. The decoration can also be layered over blinds, window film or an existing valance, according to the report, making it a temporary way to brighten neutral window coverings rather than a replacement for them.
Hunker’s instructions call for cutting cardstock into strips, with 2-by-6-inch pieces producing bulkier rings and 1-by-6-inch pieces creating a more delicate chain. Form a strip into a loop and secure it with tape or glue, placing the adhesive inside the ring to keep it out of sight. Then thread each new strip through the previous ring and continue until the chain is long enough to drape across the window.
The report recommends making the chain slightly longer than the window so it hangs with a dip in the middle. Thicker cardstock may keep its shape better, and a ruler, tape measure or cutting mat can help produce strips of consistent width. Napier’s chain was tucked over the ends of a curtain rod, Hunker says. For other setups, the report suggests adhesive hooks or thumbtacks; the appropriate method depends on the wall and window hardware.
A Colorful Layer Without New Curtains
The idea offers renters and homeowners a low-cost way to change the appearance of a room using materials many craft stores carry. Because the chain sits over existing coverings, it can add color and texture without requiring new curtains, blinds or a permanent window treatment. Hunker presents it as especially suited to children’s rooms and nurseries, where a playful decoration may fit the room better than a formal valance.
The project is also adjustable: makers can choose a rainbow palette, seasonal colors or a restrained monochrome scheme, and can make the links wider or narrower. Those are practical options described by Hunker, not claims that the decoration improves a room’s function or adds lasting value. The paper construction is decorative, and readers should consider its placement around children, pets, heat sources and window hardware.
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From Instagram Photo to DIY Instructions
The source for the idea is an Instagram image that Hunker says Napier shared, showing the paper chain across the window in her daughter’s room. Hunker’s article expands on that visual by outlining materials, link sizes, color choices and hanging methods. The supplied report does not include a date for the original post, a direct statement from Napier about the project, or a cost breakdown.
The project does not require removing existing curtains: the chain can be draped over textured drapes, or placed above blinds or another window treatment. Hunker says the paper chain is lightweight, but the final weight depends on its length and the cardstock used. Its suggested mounting options range from using an existing curtain rod to adhesive hooks or thumbtacks, with different levels of wall impact.
““This wall decor is one of Erin Napier’s cuter ideas and is perfect for adding a playful touch to children’s rooms and nurseries.””
— Hunker report
Cost, Timing and Safety Details
The source does not state what the materials cost, when Napier posted the photo, or whether she supplied instructions herself. It also does not report whether the decoration remained in place over time or provide details about the specific curtain rod and paper used. The article describes the chain as light, but does not give its weight or establish that every mounting method will suit every wall surface.
Hunker’s suggestion that the project could be done with children does not include age guidance or supervision advice. The report also does not discuss fire-safety considerations. Families should keep paper and adhesives away from candles, heaters and other heat sources, and choose a secure placement that cannot be easily pulled down by a child or pet.
Choosing Materials and a Hanging Method
Readers can adapt the idea by selecting cardstock colors and strip widths, then making enough linked rings to span the window with a gentle center dip. Hunker’s suggested mounting choices are to tuck the ends over a curtain rod, use adhesive hooks, or attach the chain with thumbtacks. Before hanging it, check that the chosen support is compatible with the surface and window setup, and keep the decoration clear of heat sources.
No further announcement from Napier or follow-up information is included in the source material. The next step for anyone trying the look is to decide whether it should complement existing curtains or blinds and whether a temporary, removable mounting option is appropriate for the room.
Key Questions
What is Erin Napier’s window-decorating idea?
Hunker describes a paper chain draped across a window in an Instagram photo Napier shared. It adds a decorative, colorful layer over existing window coverings.
What materials are needed to make the chain?
The project uses cardstock, scissors and tape or glue. Hunker says thicker cardstock may hold its shape better; a ruler or cutting mat can help make evenly sized strips.
How long should the paper chain be?
Hunker recommends making it slightly longer than the window so it can hang with a small dip in the center. Add rings until it reaches the desired length.
How can the chain be hung without a curtain rod?
The report suggests draping it over adhesive hooks or attaching it with thumbtacks. The best choice depends on the wall surface and how much marking or damage is acceptable.
Did Erin Napier publish the DIY instructions or a price?
The source says Napier shared a photo of the decoration, while Hunker provides the DIY instructions. It does not report a materials price or confirm that Napier published a tutorial.
Source: hunker.com
