Reliable shapes
Circles, flags, leaves, stars, hearts, and scallops are the easiest shapes to repeat. Keep each piece between 2 and 4 inches wide for a garland that reads well without becoming heavy.
Spacing
Leave 1 to 2 inches between small pieces and 3 inches between larger shapes. Tighter spacing looks fuller but uses more paper and takes longer to assemble.
String length
Measure the hanging area, then add 12 to 18 inches for tying and drape. For a soft swag, add another 10 percent to the measured span.
Assembly
Sew through paper pieces, tape them to twine, or punch two holes and thread the string through. Two holes keep shapes facing forward better than one center hole.