Día de los Muertos DIYs for your Altar
October is finally here!!! and that means it’s time to start my Día de los Muertos projects! While Dia de los Muertos isn't until November I like to start my crafts early because creating something special to remember our loved ones takes some time. On the first year I set up my ofrenda I thought giving myself two days would be enough to set up but boy was I wrong. I didn't end up having enough time to make everything I wanted so now I give myself a month.
Every year that I share the projects I’m making for our altar and I get so many questions about the supplies and files I use. So to make it easier for you to find everything, this year i’m putting it all here in one place!
DIY Papel Picado with a Cricut
Traditional Papel Picado is made with tissue paper but for my Cricut version I use cardstock. I typically like to use bright colors like red, green and orange but you can use any color you’d like!
What it symbolizes on the ofrenda
Papel Picado traditionally represents air or wind on an altar. The paper moves with the breeze, bringing that element into the altar. My cardstock version is a DIY take on that tradition that can be made at home.
Supplies needed
- Cardstock in your favorite colors
- Cricut machine and standard grip cutting mat
- Papel picado cut file - My Favorite papel picado shop
- String or ribbon for hanging, glue
- Check out our Cricut tutorials here
I like to make my papel picado about 10 inches wide. In Cricut Design Space resize the design with the proportions locked so it doesn’t stretch weirdly. Make sure that it fits your cardstock paper, this is why I like to use 12 X 12 " paper. For the settings I use the cardstock setting for the proper weight.
Files - I find designs from Canva and/or Etsy. On Etsy, look for a papel picado SVG made for cutting machines.
Colorful Paper frames for your Altar
These paper frames are one of my favorite ways to display our loved ones’ photos. The layers bring in so much color and you can choose a different combination for each person you’re remembering.
The paper frame file I used was created by the artist ForeverPetalsbyVee. She has yearly Día de los Muertos frame drop BUT they’re limited so a design you see in an older video may no longer be available this year. If you’re looking for last year’s file note that it may not be available. ForeverPetalsbyVee does have special drops during the month so make sure to follow her to see if she restocks last years
Check here to see if the paper frame file is in stock
Supplies needed
- Colored cardstock
- Foamies for dimension between the layers
- FlowersbyVee’s paper frame cut file
- Cricut machine and cutting mat
- Printed photographs
How it comes together
Cut the paper layers following the file’s instructions, then arrange them in order before gluing. Add foamies between the layers where you want dimension, keeping them out of view through the decorative openings. Finish with your loved one’s photo, sized to fit the frame opening.
Marigold Shadow boxes
Marigold shadow boxes are such a special way to display your loved one’s photo with flowers. The great thing about using a shadow box is that you’re able to add quotes or designs on the glass with vinyl.
Supplies needed
- A shadow box (I like to use 9 x 9” )
- Orange or yellow cardstock for the paper marigolds
- Marigold flower cut file
- Cricut machine and cutting mat
- Printed photograph
- Glue gun for assembling the flowers and attaching them to the backing
- Optional: adhesive vinyl and transfer tape for lettering on the front
How it comes together
Make the paper marigolds following your flower file’s assembly instructions. Position the photograph on the backing and arrange the flowers around. Once you’re happy with the layout, secure the photo and flowers, and place the backing inside the shadow box. If you’re adding vinyl lettering, apply it to the clean front panel, checking its placement against the photo first.
Flower sizes and quantities will depend on your shadow box and remember leave enough depth so the front panel doesn’t squash the petals.
DIY Marigold Arch with a pool noodle
If you’ve seen my orange flower arch, here’s what’s underneath it: a pool noodle! It gives the arch its shape and choosing an orange one helps any little gaps blend in with the flowers.
Supplies needed
- Orange pool noodles (They're cheaper at the dollar store)
- Artificial Marigold flowers
- Clear string, I like to use fishing wire
How it comes together
Arrange the artificial marigolds along the noodle and use clear fishing to create an arch. Tutorial:
Follow along for more Día de los Muertos crafts
These are some of my favorite Día de los Muertos DIYs, but I have a TON more to share! Follow along throughout October for more projects, ideas and ways to add personal touches to your ofrenda.
You can find me on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
Save this page so you can come back to the supplies and files as you work through your projects. I hope these ideas help you create something special for the people you’ll always remember.
💛 Karina, the crafter behind CraftyKari