Beads and doubloons, face paint and enough glitter and metallic fabrics to last the whole year round. Mardi Gras, that annual celebration of rich food and revelry before Lent, is celebrated in cities around the world. It’s a time for everyone to get creative with sequins, ribbons and metallic paints and papers. It’s a time to embellish costumes, trinkets, and pretty bags to carry all your goodies in.

Flashy, Festive Mardi Gras

In the United States, New Orleans is the heart of Mardi Gras. Its streets are famous celebratory parades, outrageous costumes, and the tradition of throwing (and collecting) trinkets. 

Mardi Gras is also a tribute to the creative spirit. Anything goes, as long as it’s in the spirit of fun and celebration. Costumes, makeup, and gifts can all be made by hand – the wilder the better. Paper Mart’s craft and paper supplies in metallic and pearlescent styles can help you capture the flash and fun of Mardi Gras, whether you’re in the crowd on Bourbon Street or planning a party in your own hometown. Here are a few ideas.

Trim With Metallic Ribbon

Ribbon in metallic, sheer and sparkling styles can trim a costume, make a headband or wrap a party gift or favor. Patterned with feathers, flowers or dots, a ribbon can be wide or narrow, sheer or solid, sequined or wired. Pair it with metallic papers or add extra sparkle with glitter and glue. Choose the Mardi Gras colors of purple, gold, and green for extra impact.

Wrap In Glitter and Shine

Use wrapping paper in shiny foil, pearlescent tissue, and metallic film to wrap Mardi Gras-themed gifts and party favors, or to add accents to a headdress or costume. Add glitter, acrylic jewels or a bit of sparkling ribbon to complete the look. If you’re feeling adventurous, make party favors by folding metallic and foil paper into flowers, birds and other shapes.

Mardi Gras Party Favors: Tuck Gifts Into A Satin Tote

For beautiful and party-ready Mardi Gras gifts, try sequined, sheer or iridescent gift bags and tote bags in jewel tones, bright metallics and sleek satin for holding party favors or gifts. For extra sparkle, line your Mardis Gras party favors with a sparkling metallic wrap or pearlescent tissue paper for extra glitz, or use them to fill your own bag of Mardi Gras style trinkets.

Style With Sparkling Tulle

Sparkling tulle and glittering wired ribbon can make a festive headband – especially if it’s paired with feathers, floral sprays or jewels secured with craft glue. The same supplies can also be used to make party favors, tokens and your own version of those famous “throws.”

FYI: If you’re looking for an easy DIY party decor idea to celebrate the holiday, take a peek at our DIY Tassel Garland post here. For more party-ready inspiration, check out our Peacock Feather Wedding Ideas post here!

Mardi Gras is a time for enjoying food, spirits, and celebration before the somber Lenten season starts. Wherever you are, you can capture the bright spirit of the carnival season with wrapping papers that gleam and ribbons that glitter from Paper Mart’s line of Mardi Gras products and packaging supplies.