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HGTV’s Erin Napier shared a photo of a colorful paper chain draped across a window in her daughter’s workspace, offering an inexpensive DIY decorating idea. The chain can be made from cardstock and tape or glue, and it can sit alongside existing curtains or blinds. The source does not provide a cost estimate or details about how long the decoration lasts.
HGTV’s Erin Napier shared an Instagram photo of a colorful paper chain draped across a window in her daughter’s workspace, and a Hunker report has presented the decoration as an affordable DIY accent for home windows. Made with cardstock and tape or glue, the chain adds color without requiring homeowners to replace curtains or blinds, though the source gives no exact price or date for Napier’s post.
The decoration works as a playful paper-chain valance: linked cardstock rings are draped over a window, in Napier’s example across textured curtains. Hunker says the idea can also be layered over blinds, window film or an existing valance, making it an accent rather than a replacement window covering. The effect could suit a child’s room or nursery, but the source does not say Napier described it as a formal design recommendation.
To make one, cut cardstock into strips and link each strip into a ring, securing the ends with clear tape or glue. The report suggests strips measuring 2 by 6 inches for a bulkier chain or 1 by 6 inches for a narrower look. Feed each new strip through the previous ring before closing it. A ruler, tape measure or cutting mat can help keep strips the same width; thicker cardstock is described as more likely to hold its shape.
The chain can be extended until it is long enough to drape across the window, with extra length creating a slight dip in the center. In the photo described by Hunker, the ends were tucked over opposite ends of the curtain rod. The report also suggests adhesive hooks when there is no suitable rod, or thumbtacks if small holes in the wall are acceptable. Those alternatives involve different mounting surfaces, so the best method depends on the window setup.
A Color Accent Without New Curtains
The appeal is that this project can change the look of a window without buying a new set of curtains or blinds. For renters or homeowners who want a temporary, personalized detail, a lightweight paper decoration may be simpler than a more permanent treatment. It also gives families a small craft project that can be adjusted to fit a room’s colors.
Color choices can make the idea feel seasonal or more restrained: Hunker suggests red, orange and yellow for a fall-inspired chain, or shades of gray for a monochromatic version. These are suggestions from the report, not evidence of a broader design trend. The source does not give a materials budget, compare the project with store-bought window treatments, or establish how well paper holds up over time. Its affordability is relative to using basic craft supplies, rather than a documented price.
Napier’s example also shows how a simple handmade detail can be added to an existing room. But the article describes an idea, not a tested product: readers should treat the directions as a basic craft approach and choose materials and mounting methods suited to their own window and household.
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The Window Craft in Napier’s Photo
The source report identifies Napier as the co-host of HGTV’s Home Town and says she shared the image on Instagram. In the photo, the chain was hung over textured drapes at her young daughter’s desk. The report does not provide the Instagram post’s date, a direct statement from Napier about the project, or details about whether she made the chain herself.
Hunker frames the decoration as a way to add individuality without expensive decor. Its instructions focus on basic paper strips and linked rings, with the chain’s length determined by the window rather than a fixed number of pieces. That makes the project adaptable, but the finished look depends on strip size, cardstock weight and chosen colors. The piece also notes that the chain need not displace existing curtains, distinguishing it from a conventional window-treatment replacement.
““It doesn’t take expensive and over-the-top decor to add a splash of color and individuality to your space.””
— Hunker report
Price, Durability and Post Date
The source does not identify when Napier posted the Instagram image, provide a direct quotation from her endorsing the project, or confirm whether she made the chain. The headline’s “approves of” wording is not supported by a quoted endorsement in the supplied report; what is confirmed there is that the report attributes the pictured idea to an image she shared.
There is also no itemized cost, estimate of time required, or information about how the paper performs in sunlight, humidity or a busy household. Hunker says the chain is light enough that it is unlikely to pull down curtains or drywall, but it does not describe testing that claim. The durability of the decoration and the suitability of any adhesive or fastener for a particular surface remain unestablished.
Choose Materials and Hanging Method
Readers who want to try the project can select cardstock, cut strips to a consistent width and build the chain until it reaches the desired span. The report’s suggested strip sizes are 2 by 6 inches for larger rings and 1 by 6 inches for a finer chain. Before hanging it, choose a mounting option that fits the window: use a curtain rod if possible, or consider adhesive hooks or thumbtacks as described by Hunker. Check the product instructions and surface compatibility for any adhesive hardware.
No follow-up from Napier or further testing is included in the source material. The next practical step is therefore a household decision: choose a color palette and mounting approach, then check that the finished chain hangs securely and does not interfere with the window covering. Whether the DIY remains a short-term seasonal accent or becomes a longer-lasting fixture is not established by the report.
Key Questions
What is Erin Napier’s paper-chain window idea?
It is a linked cardstock chain draped over a window like a valance. Hunker says Napier shared a photo showing the chain above textured curtains in her daughter’s workspace.
What supplies are needed?
The report lists cardstock, scissors and clear tape or glue. A ruler, tape measure or cutting mat can help make evenly sized strips.
How wide should the paper strips be?
Hunker suggests strips measuring 2 by 6 inches for a bulkier appearance or 1 by 6 inches for a more delicate chain. The number of strips depends on the window and how far the chain should drape.
Can the chain be hung without a curtain rod?
Yes. Hunker suggests draping it over adhesive hooks or using thumbtacks, while noting that thumbtacks leave small holes that may need repair. Check that any mounting product is suitable for the surface.
How much does the project cost?
The source does not provide a price or materials budget. It describes the project as inexpensive because it uses basic craft supplies, but the actual cost depends on what materials are already available and what a shopper buys.
Source: hunker.com
