Making Paper Chains for Sukkot: A Fun Craft for Young Children

Paper chains are a wonderful way to bring colour and festivity into your home during Sukkot. This simple craft is perfect for children aged 4–7, requiring just a few basic materials and minimal preparation. It's a great activity to do together as a family, and the finished chains make beautiful decorations for your sukkah.

What You'll Need

• Coloured paper or card (construction paper works brilliantly)
• Scissors (child-safe if possible)
• Glue stick or liquid glue
• Ruler (optional, for marking strips)
• Pencil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Paper Strips

Cut your coloured paper into strips roughly 2–3 cm wide and 15–20 cm long. You can draw light pencil lines to help guide your cuts, or simply cut freehand. Younger children may need help with this step, but older ones in this age group can often manage with supervision.

2. Form the First Loop

Take one strip and curl it into a loop, then glue the ends together. Hold it for a few seconds so the glue sets. This is your starting point.

3. Link the Chains

Thread the next strip through the first loop and glue its ends together to create a new link. Continue this process, threading each new strip through the previous loop before sealing it. Children love this repetitive action—it's satisfying and builds a sense of accomplishment as the chain grows.

4. Mix Your Colours

Alternate colours as you go, or create patterns. Reds, golds, greens, and blues work beautifully together and add a festive touch to your sukkah.

Tips for Success

• Use enough glue: Make sure the ends are properly sealed so the loops don't come apart.
• Be patient with drying time: If using liquid glue, allow a moment for each link to set before adding the next one.
• Celebrate the process: The chains don't need to be perfect—wonky loops and uneven strips add charm and character.
• Make it longer: Encourage children to keep going. A really long chain is impressive and makes a stunning decoration.

Decorating Your Sukkah

Once your chains are complete, drape them around the walls and roof of your sukkah. They catch the light beautifully and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. You can also hang them from the ceiling or weave them between branches and greenery for extra visual interest.

This craft is not only fun but also a meaningful way to involve young children in preparing for the festival. Happy creating!