A cardstock banner is easy to make with a few sheets of cardstock, scissors, string and glue. Cut the paper into triangle, rectangle or swallowtail flags, decorate each piece and attach them to ribbon or cord. You do not need a Cricut or other special equipment; a paper template and careful measuring are enough for a simple design. Choose paper that holds its shape without becoming difficult to cut or attach.

This guide explains which cardstock to use, how to assemble a paper pennant banner and how to decide whether making one is less expensive than buying it.

What Is a Cardstock Banner and What Can You Use It For?

A cardstock banner is a hanging decoration made from individual pieces of heavier paper joined with string, ribbon or cord. Each piece may carry a letter, pattern, illustration or solid color. Cardstock gives the flags more structure than ordinary printer paper, but the finished banner’s durability also depends on its size, attachment method and storage.

Paper banners work for birthdays, baby showers, seasonal displays, craftrooms and small areas of the home. A name or age can suit a party. A short phrase or coordinated set of colors can work above a bookshelf, desk or mantel.

Common banner shapes

Shape	Description	Useful for
Triangle pennant	A wide top edge that narrows to a point.	Simple repeating flags and beginner projects.
Swallowtail	A flag with a V-shaped notch at the bottom.	A more decorative bunting style.
Rectangle	A flag with straight sides and a straight bottom edge.	Large letters, names and short messages.
Letter flag	A flag that carries one letter or character.	Birthday greetings, names and short phrases.

For a first project, a triangle pennant is a practical starting point because one reusable template can guide every cut. A letter banner needs more planning: arrange the flags in order and check their spacing before attaching the letters.

Related reading: DIY home decor ideas for more projects beyond paper banners.

Related about Flowers Cards: What to Do With Pressed Flowers: Creative Ideas for Crafts and Decor

What Kind of Paper Is Best for Making a Banner?

Cardstock is usually a better starting material than thin printer paper when you want flags that keep their shape. Choose the weight based on flag size, the attachment method and whether you plan to print on the paper.

Understand cardstock weight

Cricut’s cardstock guide lists 65 lb (176 gsm) as light cardstock, 80 lb (216 gsm) as medium cardstock and 100 lb (270 gsm) as heavy cardstock. These are the categories used in Cricut’s guide, not universal labels for every paper brand. Paper pound ratings can refer to different paper categories, so compare gsm when the product packaging provides it.

Cricut category	Example weight	Practical consideration
Light cardstock	65 lb / 176 gsm	Easier to cut and fold; useful for smaller flags or layered details.
Medium cardstock	80 lb / 216 gsm	A reasonable starting point for many simple pennant banners.
Heavy cardstock	100 lb / 270 gsm	Firmer, but may take more effort to cut, punch or fold.

Cricut classifies 65 lb (176 gsm) as light cardstock, 80 lb (216 gsm) as medium cardstock, and 100 lb (270 gsm) as heavy cardstock in its official cardstock instructions

For a basic indoor banner, medium cardstock is a sensible starting choice because it balances structure and handling. That is an editorial recommendation, not a tested guarantee. Larger flags, delicate attachment points or a specific printer may call for a different material.

Choose a surface finish

Finish	What it adds	What to consider
Solid color	A coordinated, uncomplicated look.	Alternate a few colors for a tidy pattern.
Patterned scrapbook paper	Printed florals, stripes or geometric designs.	Busy patterns can make small lettering harder to read.
Metallic or glitter	Shine for accents and special occasions.	Some finishes may be harder to write or print on.
Textured	Subtle surface detail.	Check that the texture works with your pen or adhesive.

Can you print on cardstock?

You can print on cardstock only if your printer supports its thickness and weight. Check the printer manual or manufacturer specifications before loading heavy media. HP notes that different paper categories use different pound systems and advises checking the printer’s maximum supported paper weight. If your printer cannot handle the sheet, print letters on compatible paper, cut them out and attach them to the flags.

Source: HP Printer Paper and Media Guide

What Supplies Do You Need to Make a DIY Paper Banner?

A simple banner needs only a few basic supplies. Decide how you will attach the flags before cutting them: punched flags need room along the top edge, while fold-over flags need extra paper for a tab.

Basic supply checklist

• Cardstock in one or more colors.
• Scissors or a paper trimmer.
• Pencil and ruler.
• String, ribbon or cotton cord.
• Glue stick or double-sided tape.
• A hole punch if you plan to thread the flags onto string.

Optional decorations

Letter stickers, markers, washi tape, small paper shapes and leftover patterned paper can add detail. Keep decorations light if the flags will hang from a narrow string or small attachment point.

Choose an attachment method

Method	How it works	Trade-off
Punched holes	Make two holes near the top and thread the cord through.	Flags can move, but holes too close to the edge may tear.
Fold-over tab	Fold the top edge over the cord and secure it.	Hides the string, but flags are harder to remove without damage.
Adhesive	Attach each flag directly to the cord with tape or glue.	Quick to assemble, but repositioning may be difficult.

How to Make a Paper Banner Step by Step

Make one template, repeat the shape across your cardstock and attach the finished flags to a cord. A cutting machine is optional; scissors, a ruler and a pencil are enough for a basic design.

1. Plan the banner

Measure the space where you plan to hang it. Decide on the message, number of flags, shape, colors and attachment method. If the banner spells a name, count the letters and plan any spaces before cutting.

2. Make a reusable template

Draw one triangle, rectangle or swallowtail on scrap paper or thin cardstock and cut it out. Use the same template to trace each flag. Consistent shapes help the finished banner look orderly.

3. Cut the flags

Cut along the pencil lines with scissors or a paper trimmer. Keep the paper flat and check the flags together before decorating. Correct uneven edges now rather than after assembly.

4. Decorate the flags

Add letters, simple shapes, borders or small illustrations. Lay the flags in their final order before gluing letters in place. Leave enough open space for the message to remain readable.

5. Attach the flags

For a hole-punched banner, mark matching positions near the top of each flag, punch the holes and thread the cord through. For a fold-over banner, leave a top margin, fold it over the cord and secure the flap.

6. Check spacing

Lay the banner flat and adjust the gaps. Leave a slightly wider space between words if the banner carries a message. Check that every flag faces the same direction.

7. Hang and inspect

Secure both ends using a suitable hook or hanging product. For rental walls, check the product instructions and wall finish first. Step back to check legibility, sagging and overlapping flags.

How to Make an Inexpensive Banner?

Use leftover cardstock, a repeated shape and basic tools to keep a paper banner inexpensive. The project is most likely to cost less when you already own a ruler, scissors and adhesive. Buying a full set of supplies for one small banner can change the calculation.

• Use suitable leftover cardstock or scrapbook paper rather than buying several new packs.
• Choose triangle or rectangular flags that are easy to trace and cut.
• Write or cut out letters instead of buying decorative letter sets.
• Reuse a ruler, scissors and other tools you already own.
• Limit the design to a few coordinated colors and a small number of embellishments.

Do not compromise on the attachment method to save a small amount. Flags that detach or tear may need to be remade, wasting paper and time.

Is It Cheaper to DIY or Buy a Banner?

Making a banner can cost less if you already have most of the supplies. Buying a ready-made banner may be more practical if you need it quickly, want a specific printed design or would have to purchase several tools and materials for a one-time project.

Factor	DIY cardstock banner	Ready-made banner
Upfront cost	Depends on supplies already on hand and materials still needed.	Depends on the product and seller.
Customization	You choose colors, shapes and wording.	Limited to available designs or personalization options.
Time	Requires measuring, cutting and assembly.	Usually needs little preparation.
Tools	Basic craft supplies are needed.	Usually no craft tools are needed.
Reuse	Depends on paper, construction and storage.	Depends on the product material and construction.

Make a fair cost comparison

List the cardstock, cord, adhesive and decorations you still need to buy. Keep reusable tools, such as scissors and a ruler, separate from materials consumed by the project. Then compare what you would actually spend with the current price of a finished banner. Retail prices and availability change, so check the seller’s listing before buying.

Choose DIY if you want a custom message, already have supplies or enjoy the making process. Choose a ready-made option if time matters more than customization or if buying the required materials would cost more than the finished product.

Where Can You Buy Paper to Make a Banner?

Look for cardstock at craft stores, office-supply retailers, scrapbook-paper shops and online paper suppliers. The best source depends on whether you need plain colored sheets, coordinated patterns or a specialty finish.

Source	Useful for	Check before buying
Craft stores	Solid colors, patterned cardstock, metallic and textured sheets.	Weight, finish, sheet size and pack quantity.
Office-supply stores	White or colored cardstock and printable cover stock.	Printer compatibility and supported media weight.
Online paper suppliers	A broad selection of weights, colors and finishes.	Gsm, dimensions, quantity, shipping and return terms.
Scrapbook-paper collections	Coordinated patterns and colors for mixed designs.	Whether the paper suits the flag size and attachment method.

Buying checklist

• Does the paper suit the size and shape of the flags?
• Is the weight appropriate for the attachment method?
• Can your scissors, trimmer or cutting machine handle it?
• Does your printer support the paper if you plan to print on it?
• Do the colors and finish suit the design?
• Can you buy only the quantity you need?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make a cardstock banner without a hole punch?

Yes. Fold the top edge of each flag over the string and secure it with glue or double-sided tape. This hides the cord, although the flags may be harder to remove later.

Can you make a double-sided paper banner?

Yes. Attach two matching flags back to back with the cord between them. Align the edges before the adhesive sets, and keep the layers light enough for the cord to support.

How should you store a paper pennant banner after a party?

Untangle the cord and lay the flags flat if the construction allows it. Store the banner in a dry place in a flat folder or box, away from heavy objects that could crush raised decorations.

Can you use a cardstock banner outdoors?

Ordinary cardstock is vulnerable to moisture and wind. Use it in a sheltered spot for a short event, and choose a more weather-resistant material if the display needs to last outdoors.

How This Guide Was Made

This guide was prepared through a desk review of paper-banner tutorials, cardstock craft projects, retailer product listings and manufacturer guidance. The material specifications were checked against Cricut’s cardstock instructions, and printer compatibility guidance was checked against HP’s paper and media guide.

Both manufacturer pages were reviewed on November 6, 2026. The recommendations about banner shape, supplies and assembly are editorial guidance based on the project requirements described in those sources. No banner was physically made or tested for this article, and no independent product tests were conducted. Retail prices and product availability can change.