I discovered a long roll of thin kraft paper at a paint store a few months ago and began using it for short notes and my weekly to-do lists. With graduation season and Father’s Day approaching, I decided to turn that roll into long message scrolls—an easy, unexpected alternative to traditional greeting cards that works for many occasions.
These scrolls are simple to make and can be as brief or as long as you like. If you have a lot to say, you can create a very long scroll for someone special. Personally, I would love to receive a heartfelt scroll like this.
Here’s how to make a paper message scroll in about five minutes:
Materials: a roll of kraft paper (available at paint stores or online), pastel crayons or a white charcoal pencil, and some string or ribbon.
How-To: Measure and cut—or tear for a more organic edge—a length of kraft banner paper between two and four feet long, or longer if you prefer. Use crayons, pencils, or markers to write your message along the length of the paper. Because it’s a scroll, don’t be afraid to get long-winded and pour your heart out. When you’re finished, roll the paper, then wrap and secure it with ribbon or string. Present the scroll with a small gift if you like. These scrolls suit graduations, birthdays, Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, or any celebration.
Simple gift pairings for graduations include a nice journal, a pretty notebook, or even rolled-up cash tucked inside the scroll. For Father’s Day, a scroll can be slipped into a toolbox or bundled with a set of new tools. For birthdays, consider attaching a scroll to a small bunch of helium balloons for a fun surprise.
Another idea is to write several short scrolls for a friend who needs encouragement—similar to a set of mailable messages but in scroll form. If you don’t have a special occasion coming up, you can turn these strips into inexpensive wall art by writing favorite inspirational quotes and hanging them with washi tape.
P.S. In the photo I’m doing my best Vanna White impression—can you tell?
Photography by Sarah Eddy // Concept and styling by Brittni Mehlhoff