How to Make Watercolor Party Decorations

Simplify your summer party decor — while still adding a handmade touch — with one simple watercolor technique and your home printer.

By: Liz Gray

Related To:

Make Your Own Watercolor Party Supplies

Pretty party decorations can be pricey, but doing it all yourself can be a bit overwhelming. The compromise? Paint one watercolor design, then scan it and use it for a whole suite of matching pieces.

Paint Your Watercolor Design

To make this modern herringbone pattern, put 5 strips of artist's tape an equal distance apart on a sheet of watercolor paper. Then, add more tape on an angle between each vertical strip. Paint alternate colors in each section to create a custom design. Watch a tutorial of this watercolor technique here >>

Make Customized Watercolor Invitations

Now that the design is done, it's time to make some decorations! To make your own custom invitations, scan the design into your computer and add text in a photo editing program. Print and add your party details.

Download the Invitation Template

Download our free printable template for two different party invitations, plus a coordinated thank you note. Download the free printable invitations.

Make Fun Paper Cup Sleeves

Scan and print the design on sheets of white printer paper, then cut out colorful sleeves to dress up plain paper cups. For an extra personal touch, write guests' names on the sleeves.

Download the Cup Sleeve Template

Print out our herringbone cup sleeve template for a quick, simple party upgrade.

Festive Party Banner

Create a backdrop for the party with this matching herringbone party banner.

Make This Party Banner

To make this festive party banner, cut out the herringbone designs from sheets of cardstock and hot glue to a length of ribbon.

Cupcake Wrappers

Dress up plain white cupcakes with coordinated watercolor wrappers. Print out your design on plain white freezer paper to keep the wrappers looking fresh throughout your event.

Download the Cupcake Wrapper Template

No time to paint your own design? Customize your party with our free, printable version. Download the cupcake wrapper template here.

Customize As Needed

This herringbone design is a fun twist on the trendy pattern, but the sky’s the limit for your template: Try polka dots, stripes or an abstract, drippy design.

How to Make Watercolor Party Decorations

Related To:

Make Your Own Watercolor Party Supplies

Paint Your Watercolor Design

Make Customized Watercolor Invitations

Download the Invitation Template

Make Fun Paper Cup Sleeves

Download the Cup Sleeve Template

Festive Party Banner

Make This Party Banner

Cupcake Wrappers

Download the Cupcake Wrapper Template

Customize As Needed

Shop This Look

Next Up

Simple DIY Art Projects 4 Photos

Romantic DIY Wedding Ideas 25 Photos

Steal Holiday Party Ideas From HGTV and DIY Network Editors 38 Photos

How to Make Jam Party Favors 5 Photos

Host a Fun Backyard Party 19 Photos

New Ways to Decorate With Instagram Photos 27 Photos

Go Glamping: Throw a Luxury Camping Party at Home 20 Photos

Fourth of July Backyard Party Ideas 16 Photos

8 Easy Handmade Holiday Gifts for Hosts 8 Photos

Our 80+ Favorite Handmade Holiday Decorating Ideas 83 Photos

We Recommend

33 Easy DIY Decorating Ideas for Your Next Party 33 Photos

24 DIY Wedding Decor Ideas to Wow Your Guests 24 Photos

Sizzling Themes for an Outdoor Summer Party 12 Photos

Our 80+ Favorite Handmade Holiday Decorating Ideas 83 Photos

How to Make a Hand-Lettered Farmhouse-Style Tray

How to Make Faux Cotton Stems