Nothing beats the cozy feeling of sitting by the fire with your kids during the holidays. You are likely looking for meaningful Hygge Christmas crafts that look beautiful on the tree and carry a story. This year, we are learning how to weave Danish paper hearts together.
As a mom of three, I love crafts that teach a bit of history while we work. Did you know the Hans Christian Andersen heart basket history allegedly dates back to the 1860s? My boys love the puzzle-like challenge of weaving, and my daughter adores the classic Red and white Christmas decor aesthetic.
However, many beginners get frustrated and ask, “Why is my paper heart basket not opening?” The secret is weaving through the loops, not just laying strips over and under. In this Scandinavian woven heart basket tutorial, I will show you exactly how to master the “closed loop” technique without tearing your paper.
📸 [Image-1: A stunning, high-resolution photo of the finished Scandinavian Paper Heart Basket, styled on a Christmas tree branch with twinkle lights.]
🎁 Free Download: Nancy’s Heart Basket Template
Make this craft way easier! Click here to download my free PDF printable template for paper heart baskets so you get the perfect shape every time.
📝 Key Materials
Before we dive into the full supply list, here are the heavy hitters you need to grab: Glossy Origami Paper or Stiff Felt, Detail Scissors, Glue Stick, and Ribbon.
Supplies & Tools List
- Consumables:
- Red and White Paper (Glossy works best).
- Stiff Felt Sheets (For DIY felt heart baskets).
- Scotch tape.
- Baker’s Twine or Satin Ribbon.
- Tools:
- Printer (for the template).
- Scissors.
- Ruler & Pencil.
Step 1: The Fold & Cut
1. Prepare your paper.
Fold one sheet of red paper and one sheet of white paper in half. Crease the fold sharply so it lays flat.
2. Attach the template.
Place your printed template on top of the colored paper. You must align the straight bottom edge of the template with the folded edge of your paper. If you cut the fold, the heart will fall apart!
3. Cut the shapes.
Hold the paper firmly or use a little tape to keep the template from sliding. Cut along the curved top and the straight side lines.
📸 [Image-2: Close-up shot of scissors cutting the curved top of the paper heart, showing the template taped in place.]
4. Cut the strips.
Cut along the straight lines that run up into the heart. Stop exactly where the line ends on the template. You should now have two folded pieces with “fingers.”
Step 2: The Weave (The Tricky Part)
5. Understand the loop.
This is the most important step for easy Julehjerter instructions for kids. Do not just weave the strips over and under each other like a placemat. You must weave the strips through the inside of the folded loops.
6. Begin Row 1.
Take the first red strip and put it through the loop of the first white strip. Then, take the second white strip and put it through the loop of the red strip. Alternate this pattern across the entire first row.
📸 [Image-3: A macro photo showing the red paper strip going inside the opening of the white paper strip.]
7. Solve the tearing problem.
Standard construction paper often tears here because the friction is high. I highly recommend using glossy origami paper for a smoother slide.
8. Weave Row 2.
Start the second row with the opposite pattern of the first row. If you went “through” first on row one, you go “around” first on row two. Push the woven strips up tight against the top of the heart as you go.
9. Finish the final row.
The last row is always tight and tricky. Gently wiggle the strips side-to-side to ease them through without ripping the paper.
Step 3: The Handle & Fill
10. Add the handle.
Cut a strip of paper or ribbon about 8 inches long. Glue or tape it to the inside of the heart basket on both sides.
11. Check the pouch.
Gently squeeze the sides of the heart. If you wove it correctly, the heart should puff open like a basket.
12. Add the Hygge.
Fill your traditional woven heart ornaments with treats! In Denmark, we often use peppernuts (Pebernødder) or small chocolates.
📸 [Image-4: The finished heart basket hanging on a tree, filled with small cookies.]
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is my paper heart basket not opening?
A: This happens when you weave the strips over and under each other like a flat mat. You must weave the strips through the open loops of the folded paper to create a pouch.
Q: What kind of paper is best for weaving hearts?
A: Glossy origami paper or high-quality wrapping paper works best. Standard construction paper is often too thick and brittle, leading to cracks and tears during the tight weaving process.
Q: What do you put inside Danish heart baskets?
A: Traditionally, these are filled with nuts, hard candies, or small spiced cookies. You can also put small trinkets or lightweight gifts inside for your children to find on Christmas Eve.
Q: Can you make woven hearts out of felt?
A: Yes! DIY felt heart baskets are very durable and act as “forever ornaments.” Just be sure to use stiffened felt; soft felt is too floppy to weave easily.
Final Thoughts
I hope this helps you bring a little Scandinavian charm to your home this year! Once you master the “through the loop” technique, how to weave Danish paper hearts becomes a relaxing rhythm you can enjoy every year. Snap a picture of your red and white creations and tag me—I’d love to see your baskets!
Happy Weaving,
Nancy
