DYI Hanging Paper Mâché Easter Egg Decorations

A modern, sustainable alternative to Easter wreaths

Easter decorating does not have to be loud, colourful or disposable. In recent years, many homes have shifted towards calmer, more intentional seasonal styling using natural materials and handmade pieces. Hanging paper mâché Easter egg decorations are a perfect example of this change. They are lightweight, inexpensive to make, and quietly beautiful.

DYI Hanging Paper Mâché Easter Egg Decorations

Suspended from branches in a vase, these eggs create a sculptural Easter display that feels modern, minimal and timeless. They work especially well in Scandi, Japandi and neutral interiors, and can be reused year after year.

Why choose hanging paper mâché eggs for Easter?

Paper mâché is often associated with children’s crafts, but when used thoughtfully, it becomes a versatile material for refined home décor.

Wooden bowl filled with handmade paper mâché Easter eggs made from newspaper.

Hanging paper mâché eggs:

• Are lightweight and easy to suspend from branches

• Use recycled paper and simple, low-toxicity ingredients

• Avoid plastic and single-use seasonal decorations

• Fit seamlessly into modern, minimalist interiors

• Can be styled subtly or left raw for an organic look

Rather than replacing a wreath on the door, these eggs offer a softer, indoor-focused way to mark the season.

Materials you will need

You likely already have most of these at home:

• Newspaper or recycled paper

• Flour and water (for a basic paste) or eco-friendly craft glue

• Balloons or foam eggs (to use as moulds)

• Linen string, twine or cotton cord

• A needle, skewer or small awl

• Scissors

• Chalky white, stone or soft pastel paint (optional)

• Matte sealant or diluted PVA glue (optional)

How to make lightweight paper mâché eggs

1. Prepare the paper mâché paste

Mix flour and water until you have a smooth, runny paste similar to pouring cream. Avoid thick mixtures, as they add unnecessary weight.

2. Tear the paper

Tear paper into small strips rather than cutting. Torn edges blend more smoothly and create a softer surface.

3. Build thin layers

Dip each strip into the paste, remove excess, and layer it onto the balloon or foam egg. Apply two to three thin layers only. Keeping layers light ensures the finished egg remains suitable for hanging.

4. Dry thoroughly

Allow the eggs to dry completely in a warm, well-ventilated space. Rotate them occasionally to prevent flat spots. Drying can take 24–48 hours depending on humidity.

5. Remove the mould

Once fully dry, carefully pop the balloon or remove the foam egg. If needed, trim the opening neatly with scissors.

I love using paper paper mâché to make seasonal decorations, like making your own Christmas baubles or more tips and recipes to make paper mâché at home

Creating the hanging loop

Use a needle or skewer to make two small holes near the top of the egg, opposite each other. Thread linen string or twine through the holes and tie a secure knot inside the egg so it remains hidden.

For a balanced look, keep hanging lengths consistent if you are grouping eggs together. Varying lengths slightly can add movement, but too much variation may look untidy.

Styling ideas for a modern Easter display

Hanging paper mâché eggs work best when styled simply.

• Place bare branches in a ceramic, glass or concrete vase

• Hang one or two eggs for a restrained look, or cluster several for impact

• Combine with dried grasses, blossom branches or eucalyptus

• Display on a sideboard, windowsill or dining table rather than the front door

Styling ideas for a modern Easter display: Paper mâché Easter eggs

The aim is to create a calm seasonal moment rather than a bold statement.

Colour and finish ideas

These eggs are most effective in a soft, natural palette:

• Leave them unpainted to showcase the paper texture

• Paint in chalky white, warm grey or soft stone

• Use muted spring tones such as sage, clay or blush

• Press dried flowers or grasses lightly into the final layer before drying

Paper Mâché Easter Eggs Decorated With Pressed Flowers

Seal gently with a matte finish to protect the surface without adding shine.

Storage and reuse

One of the advantages of paper mâché décor is how easy it is to store.

Wrap each egg loosely in tissue paper and place in a shallow box. Store in a dry area and they will last for many seasons. Outside of Easter, they can also be used as spring décor or neutral hanging ornaments.

Sustainable Easter decorating, rethought

Easter does not need new decorations every year. Handmade pieces like paper mâché eggs encourage slower, more thoughtful rituals. They cost very little, use what you already have, and bring a quiet sense of craft into your home.

By choosing reusable, natural décor, Easter becomes less about excess and more about marking the change of season in a gentle, meaningful way.

Hanging Paper Mâché Easter Egg Decorations: Frequently asked questions

1. Are paper mâché eggs strong enough to hang?

   Yes, as long as they are fully dry and made with thin layers, they are more than strong enough for indoor hanging.

2. How long do they take to dry?

   Typically 24–48 hours, depending on room temperature and humidity.

3. Can I make them waterproof?

   Paper mâché is not fully waterproof, but sealing with a matte varnish or diluted glue will protect them from light moisture.

4. Are they suitable for homes with pets?

   They are best kept out of reach, as paper mâché is not designed to withstand chewing or pulling.

5. Can children help with this project?

   Children can help with tearing paper and layering, but would recommend (depending on their age) the drying, cutting and hanging to be done by adults.