If you’re searching for Christmas mantel ideas, we’ve got a unique one for you! This DIY paper deer head is a beautiful handcrafted work of art and will spruce up any room for the holiday season. If you’d like, you could also remove the paper wreath around its neck and leave it up year-round.

Due to the intricate details of this paper deer, we recommend using a cutting machine. But we have also included a PDF template for anyone who wants to cut by hand.

diy paper deer head

Oh Deer!

Reminiscent of taxidermy trophies, this papercut version evokes a similar rustic vibe. Go for a stroll in the forest and find a wood slice that appeals to you (or you can always buy one online!), then create your paper deer head to mount onto it.

If you need some more decorating inspiration, we styled our paper deer on the mantel with this holiday wreath. Or you can explore all of our Christmas crafts for other ideas.

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Tools

Materials

How to Make a Wood Paper Deer

  1. Gather the tools and materials listed above. Peel the backer off the wood paper and attach it to teal cardstock. (This will thicken the paper.)
  2. Trim your felt to fit the back of your wood slice. Glue a ribbon loop holder to the back of the wood, then glue the felt to the wood.
  3. Trim your pieces according to the pattern. Score and fold along the dotted lines.
  4. Flip over to the backside.

Full tutorial available for members to download below.

wood and paper deer trophy tutorial by Lia Griffith

paper deer head trophy
diy paper deer and paper wreath
paper deer head

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