It’s time to let the good times roll! Get into the Mardi Gras spirit with this colorful and easy-to-make Jester Collar — the perfect finishing touch for any Fat Tuesday celebration, costume party, or classroom craft. With just a few simple materials, you can create a vibrant collar that captures all the playful energy of Mardi Gras. Best of all, it’s just as fun for kids as it is for adults!.
Materials You’ll Need
- Paper in two colors (purple, green, or gold for an authentic Mardi Gras look)
- Gold foil paper (a party bag from Dollar Tree works great!)
- Scissors
- Craft glue
- Stapler
- Ribbon
- Jester Collar Pattern (PDF printable)
How to Make Your DIY Jester Collar
1. Print and Cut the Collar Base
Start by printing the Jester Collar pattern on plain or colored paper. Cut out the semi-circle shape — this is your collar base. Want a full-circle collar? Print and cut two halves and tape them together, or trace the pattern on a folded brown paper bag to make one big piece.
2. Add the Ribbon
Attach a ribbon to each end of your collar base with a stapler. These will be your ties for securing the collar around your neck (or your pet’s, if they’re feeling festive!).
3. Make the Jester Points
Trace and cut out three pointed tabs from each color of paper. Cut one extra tab in half to fill in the gaps. Glue the points evenly around your collar base, following the pattern’s guide marks.
4. Add the Finishing Touches
Cut seven small circles from your gold foil paper — these represent the jingle bells on a traditional Jester Collar. Glue one to the tip of each point for that extra sparkle.
Tip: If you’re using heavier paper, mix a bit of glue and water, then apply it with a brush for smoother adhesion.
Time to Celebrate!
Your Mardi Gras Jester Collar is ready to wear! Pair it with a DIY jester hat for a complete costume, or make a batch for your friends, students, or parade crew. You can even adapt it for pets (adorable photo op, guaranteed!).
Fun Ways to Use Your Jester Collar:
- Pair it with a DIY jester hat for a complete look!
- Use it for a school play or costume day.
- Make matching collars for a group Mardi Gras celebration!
- Turn it into a pet costume for a fun photo op!
Laissez les bons temps rouler! (Let the good times roll!) 💜💛💚
