10 Easy Paper Craft Projects for Beginners

Welcome to our blog post on 10 easy paper craft projects for beginners! If you’re looking for a way to indulge your creativity without needing a lot of specialized tools or materials, paper crafting is the perfect solution.

This post will guide you through a variety of fun and simple projects, proving that anyone can become a paper crafting enthusiast. Whether you’re interested in making delicate paper flowers or playful origami animals, our step-by-step instructions will make the process enjoyable and accessible.

We encourage you to dive in and try out these projects, as they’re designed to be both rewarding and beginner-friendly.

Materials Needed

Before starting your papercraft projects, it’s essential to gather the basic materials that you’ll need for all the projects. Here’s a comprehensive list to get you started:

• Construction paper: Versatile and available in various colors, construction paper is a staple for most paper crafts.
• Scissors: A good pair of scissors will help you cut paper accurately. Ensure they are sharp and suitable for crafting.
• Glue: Choose a glue stick or liquid glue, depending on the project requirements. Both are effective for paper crafts.
• Markers and crayons: These are perfect for adding details and designs to your paper projects.
• Decorative items: Enhance your crafts with stickers, glitter, buttons, and other embellishments to make your creations unique and fun.

With these materials, you’ll be well-equipped to start any of the paper craft projects outlined in this guide. Happy crafting!

1. Paper Snowflakes

Creating paper snowflakes is a classic and enjoyable paper craft project that can add a touch of winter wonder to any space. Follow these simple steps to make your own unique snowflakes:

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Gather Your Materials:

• Construction paper or white paper
• Scissors
• Pencil (optional for sketching patterns)

2. Fold the Paper:

• Start with a square piece of paper. If you’re using rectangular paper, cut it into a square.
• Fold the square in half diagonally to form a triangle.
• Fold the triangle in half to make a smaller triangle.
• Fold the smaller triangle into thirds. You can do this by bringing the right point over to the left side, and the left point over to the right side, ensuring they overlap evenly.

3. Trim the Excess:

• After folding, there will be a small triangular point at the bottom. Cut this off to create a straight edge.

4. Create Your Pattern:

• Use a pencil to lightly sketch your desired pattern onto the folded triangle. This can include various shapes like diamonds, circles, and triangles.

5. Cut Out the Shapes:

• Carefully use scissors to cut along the lines of your pattern. Take your time to ensure precision.
• Keep in mind that the more intricate your cuts, the more detailed your snowflake will be.

6. Unfold the Snowflake:

• Gently unfold your paper to reveal a beautiful, symmetrical snowflake.

Tips for Creating Different Patterns

• Experiment with Symmetry: The key to stunning snowflakes is symmetry. Fold your paper accurately and make sure your cuts mirror each other on both sides.
• Vary the Sizes: Cut out snowflakes of different sizes to create a more interesting display. Larger snowflakes can make bold decorations, while smaller ones add delicate details.
• Try Different Shapes: While traditional snowflakes use triangles and circles, don’t hesitate to experiment with other shapes such as stars and hearts for a unique look.
• Use Colored Paper: Although white snowflakes are classic, using colored paper can make your decorations stand out. Consider using light blue or metallic paper for a frosty effect.
• Layer for Depth: Create multiple snowflakes and layer them on top of each other for a 3D effect. This adds depth and complexity to your display.

By practicing these techniques and tips, you can design an array of diverse and captivating paper snowflakes. Enjoy the process and let your creativity sparkle!

2. Paper Flowers

Creating paper flowers is an excellent way to bring the beauty of blooms indoors without worrying about fading petals. Here’s a guide on the materials you’ll need and detailed steps to create various types of paper flowers.

Materials Required

• Crepe paper: Ideal for making realistic-looking flowers, available in many colors.
• Tissue paper: Lightweight and versatile, perfect for crafting delicate petals.
• Floral wire: Provides structure to the flowers, allowing them to stand upright.
• Floral tape: Useful for wrapping around stems and securing petals and leaves.
• Scissors: Sharp scissors for precise cutting of paper.
• Glue: A glue stick or liquid glue to attach the petals and other components.
• Markers or paint: Optional, for adding details and accentuating the flower design.

Detailed Steps to Make Various Types of Paper Flowers

Crepe Paper Roses

1. Prepare Petals

• Cut crepe paper into petal shapes. You’ll need around 10-15 petals for a full rose.
• Use a petal template to ensure consistency.

1. Create the Center Bud

• Cut a small strip of crepe paper and tightly roll it into a bud shape.
• Secure the bottom with floral wire.

1. Attach Petals

• Begin attaching the petals around the bud using glue. Overlap each petal slightly to create a natural look.
• Wrap the floral wire and stem with floral tape as you go.

1. Add Calyx and Leaves

• Cut green crepe paper into calyx and leaf shapes.
• Attach them to the base of the flower and stem using floral tape.

Tissue Paper Peonies

1. Prepare the Layers

• Stack 8-10 sheets of tissue paper and cut into rectangles of the same size.
• Fold the stack accordion-style, making 1-inch folds.

1. Secure the Center

• Wrap a piece of floral wire around the center of the folded tissue paper stack.
• Secure tightly to ensure it holds.

1. Trim Edges

• Trim the edges of the folded tissue to create rounded or pointed petal tips.

1. Unfold the Petals

• Carefully separate each layer of tissue on either side of the wire to form petals.
• Fluff and arrange the petals to shape the peony.

1. Add a Stem

• Wrap the base and excess wire with floral tape to create a stem.

Simple Paper Daisies

1. Cut Out Petals

• Cut thin, long petal shapes from white crepe or construction paper.
• You’ll need about 20 petals for a daisy.

1. Make the Center

• Cut a small, round piece of yellow paper for the daisy’s center.

1. Assemble the Flower

• Glue the yellow center onto a piece of floral wire.
• Attach the white petals around the center, securing them with glue or floral tape.

1. Finish with Stem

• Wrap the base of the petals and wire with green floral tape to create a neat stem.

These steps provide a foundation for making various paper flowers. Feel free to experiment with different paper types, colours, and petal shapes to create your unique floral arrangements. Happy crafting!

3. Origami Animals

Origami, the ancient Japanese art of paper folding, offers a captivating way to create intricate designs using just a piece of paper.

In this section, you’ll be introduced to basic origami techniques and guided through the steps to create simple animals like cranes and frogs. Origami is a wonderful hobby that enhances fine motor skills and fosters creativity.

Introduction to Basic Origami Techniques

Before diving into making origami animals, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with some basic techniques and folds that serve as the foundation for many origami designs.

Key Origami Folds

• Valley Fold: Fold the paper in half and open it back up to create a valley-like crease.
• Mountain Fold: Similar to a valley fold, but the paper is folded in the opposite direction, resembling a mountain.
• Squash Fold: Open a pocket of paper and squash it to lay flat, creating a new, smaller flat section.
• Reverse Fold: Fold a flap of paper on itself, changing the direction of the flap’s crease.

Instructions for Creating Simple Animals

Origami Crane

1. Start with a Square Paper

• • Use a 6-inch square piece of origami paper, color side up.Fold DiagonallyFold the paper in half diagonally to form a triangle. Crease well and unfold.Fold Diagonally the Other WayFold the paper in half diagonally the opposite way and crease well again. Unfold.Fold in Half Vertically and HorizontallyFold the paper in half vertically, crease, and unfold. Repeat with a horizontal fold.Form a Square BaseBring the side corners to the center, collapsing the paper into a smaller square.Create the Bird BaseFold the lower edges of the square to meet the center line and crease. Unfold and repeat on the other side.Fold the top of the paper down along the existing crease lines, then unfold.Lift the bottom corner, open the paper, and fold the sides inwards to complete the bird base.Shape the CraneFold the wings and neck using reverse folds. Pull out the neck and tail to create a crane shape.Fold down the tip of the neck to form the beak.
  Origami Frog
  1. Start with a Rectangular PaperUse a 3×5 inch piece of paper, laying it horizontally.Create the Base FoldsFold the paper in half vertically, crease, and unfold. Fold the paper in half horizontally, crease, and unfold.Fold each corner so they touch the center crease, making two triangular flaps on each side. Make the FroLegs fold the top corners down to touch the bottom edge of the paper. Then, fold the sides inward to form the legs.Shape the FrogFold the bottom edge up to create the frog’s body.Fold the top layer of the bottom edge back down to meet the bottom edge again, forming a thinner strip.Flip the frog over and fold the legs downward along the center crease.
  By mastering these basic folds and instructions, you can create a variety of simple origami animals. Enjoy experimenting with different types of paper and sizes to see how they affect your designs. Have fun bringing these paper creatures to life!

4. Paper Greeting Cards

Personalized greeting cards add a special touch to any occasion, making your loved ones feel cherished and appreciated. Crafting your own greeting cards allows you to unleash your creativity and convey heartfelt messages in a unique way.

In this section, we’ll explore various ideas and techniques for creating handmade greeting cards for different occasions.

Creative Ideas for Different Occasions

Birthday Cards

1. Pop-Up Cards

• Create a 3D effect with pop-up elements. Fold a piece of cardstock in half and cut small slits along the center fold. Push the cut sections inward to form pop-up tabs. Attach decorative elements like balloons or cakes to the tabs for a delightful surprise.

2. Stamped and Embossed Cards

• Use stamps and embossing powder to add texture and intricate designs. Choose birthday-themed stamps, ink them, and press them onto the card. Sprinkle embossing powder over the stamped image, shake off the excess, and heat with an embossing tool to set.

Thank You Cards

1. Watercolor Wash

• Create a background wash using watercolor paints. Choose soft, pastel colors or vibrant hues depending on your preference. Once dry, write a message of gratitude with a calligraphy pen or decorative markers.

2. Button Accents

• Attach colorful buttons in various sizes to the front of the card to form patterns, shapes, or simple designs like flowers or stars. Secure the buttons with glue for a playful and tactile element.

Holiday Cards

1. Quilled Snowflakes

• Use the paper quilling technique to make intricate snowflakes. Roll thin strips of paper into coils and shape them into snowflake patterns. Glue the quilled pieces onto a card for an elegant, festive touch.

2. Layered Tree Designs

• Create a layered look by cutting out tree shapes in different sizes from colored paper or cardstock. Stack and glue the tree shapes on top of each other, slightly offset, to give a sense of depth. Add embellishments like sequins or stickers for extra sparkle.

Wedding Invitations

1. Lace and Ribbon

• Incorporate lace and ribbon for an elegant, romantic touch. Attach a strip of lace across the front of the card and top it with a satin ribbon bow. Print or handwrite your invitation text in a sophisticated font.

2. Pressed Flowers

• Embed pressed flowers within the card for a natural and timeless look. Carefully arrange dried flowers between layers of parchment paper and press them with a heavy object. Once ready, glue the pressed flowers onto the card in a pleasing design.

By experimenting with these creative ideas and techniques, you can craft personalized greeting cards that leave a lasting impression. Enjoy the process and let your imagination guide you in making beautiful, heartfelt cards for all occasions.

5. Paper Chain Decorations

Adding a burst of color and fun to any party or event can be effortlessly achieved with paper chain decorations. These classic garlands are easy to make, require minimal materials, and offer a versatile way to enhance your decor.

In this section, we’ll guide you through the steps to create colorful paper chains and explore various uses for them in parties and decorations.

How to Create Colorful Paper Chains

1. Materials Needed

• Colored paper or construction paper
• Scissors
• Glue stick or tape
• Pencil and ruler (optional)

2. Step-by-Step Instructions
3. Prepare the Paper Strips

• Form the First Loop
• Create the Chain
• Create a vibrant and festive backdrop by draping long paper chains across a wall. Mix and match different colors to suit the party theme.

1. Table Centerpieces

• Drape shorter paper chains across the center of tables to add a whimsical touch. You can even intertwine them with fairy lights for an enchanting effect.

1. Ceiling Decorations

• Hang paper chains from the ceiling to create a floating canopy above the party area. This is particularly effective in adding height and dimension to the decor.

1. Tree Decorations

• Use paper chains to decorate Christmas trees, or even create themed trees for other holidays and celebrations. The chains can act as garlands winding around the tree branches.

1. Photo Booth Frames

• Designate a photo booth area and use paper chains to create a fun and colorful frame for guests’ pictures. This can also serve as an engaging activity during the event.

Incorporating paper chain decorations into your celebration will bring a handmade, cheerful element to the decor. With endless possibilities for customization, you can tailor them to fit any theme and make your event truly unforgettable. Enjoy the simplicity and charm of creating and decorating with paper chains!

6. Paper Puppets

Creating paper puppets is a delightful activity that brings storytelling to life. Whether you’re making hand puppets or finger puppets, these charming characters can be used in educational settings, as fun playtime companions, or as part of a puppet show.

In this section, we’ll provide detailed instructions for making both hand and finger puppets, along with some example characters to inspire your creations.

Instructions for Making Hand and Finger Puppets

Hand Puppets

1. Materials Needed

• Construction paper or cardstock
• Scissors
• Glue stick or tape
• Markers, crayons, or coloured pencils
• Decorative elements (googly eyes, yarn, buttons, etc.)
• Craft sticks or straws (optional)

2. Step-by-Step Instructions
3. Create the Puppet Body

• Add Features
• Decorate the Puppet
• Insert the Craft Stick (Optional)
• Construction paper or cardstock
• Scissors
• Glue stick or tape
• Markers, crayons, or coloured pencils
• Small decorative elements (googly eyes, sequins, etc.)

2. Step-by-Step Instructions
3. Cut Finger Puppet Shapes

• From the Puppet
• Add Facial Features
• Decorate
• • Customize your finger puppets with patterns, clothes, or accessories using markers or additional paper cut-outs.
  Examples of Puppet Characters
  • Animals
• Create a zoo of paper puppets featuring lions, elephants, monkeys, and more. Use different colors and textures to bring each animal to life.
• Storybook Characters
• Make puppets based on favorite storybook characters, like Little Red Riding Hood, the Big Bad Wolf, or Cinderella. These can be great for reenacting tales during storytime.
• Superheroes and Villains
• Design superhero and villain puppets, complete with capes, masks, and emblems. Encourage imagination and play with these dynamic characters.
• Fantasy Creatures
• Craft mythical creatures such as dragons, unicorns, and fairies. Use glitter and shimmering materials to add a magical touch.
• Custom Characters
• Invent your unique characters, from brave adventurers to silly monsters. Let your creativity run wild with custom designs and backstories.

By making paper puppets, you not only create fun and interactive toys but also engage in a creative process that encourages imagination and storytelling. Enjoy making these vibrant characters and bringing your very own puppet theatre to life!

7. Quilling Patterns

Paper quilling, also known as paper filigree, is an art form that involves rolling, shaping, and gluing strips of paper to create intricate designs.

This project introduces the basics of paper quilling and offers easy patterns for beginners to start with. Quilling is an excellent way to create beautiful decorations, cards, and framed art with minimal materials.

Basics of Paper Quilling

To begin your quilling journey, you’ll need a few essential tools and materials:

• Quilling paper strips: These are thin strips of paper available in various widths and colors.
• Quilling tool: A slotted tool that helps you roll the paper strips.
• Tweezers: Handy for holding and placing small quilled shapes.
• Glue: A strong adhesive to secure your designs.
• Quilling board or template: Useful for making consistent shapes and sizes.
• Scissors: For cutting paper strips if needed.

Basic Quilling Shapes

Before diving into patterns, familiarize yourself with a few basic quilling shapes:

1. Tight Coil: A tightly rolled spiral.
2. Loose Coil: A spiral that is allowed to expand and then glued.
3. Teardrop: A loose coil pinched at one end.
4. Marquise (Eye): A loose coil pinched at two opposite ends.
5. Square, Triangle, and Other Shapes: Formed by pinching a loose coil in various ways.

Easy Patterns for Beginners to Start With

Now that you know the basics, let’s explore some simple quilling patterns suitable for beginners.

1. Quilled Flowers

• Materials Needed:
• Quilling paper strips in desired colors
• Quilling tool
• Glue
• Cardstock (optional, for mounting)
• Instructions:

1. Roll several tight coils for the flower center and then form teardrop shapes for petals.
2. Arrange the petals around the center coil and glue in place.
3. Optionally, mount the flower on a piece of cardstock to create a card or decoration.

2. Quilled Butterfly

• Materials Needed:
• Quilling paper strips in various colors
• Quilling tool
• Glue
• Tweezers
• Instructions:

1. Create four marquise shapes for the butterfly wings.
2. Form a tight coil for the body and add small loose coils for the antennae.
3. Glue the wings and body together, positioning the wings symmetrically.

3. Quilled Heart

• Materials Needed:
• Quilling paper strips in red or pink
• Quilling tool
• Glue
• Instructions:

1. Make two teardrop shapes and glue them together to form a heart.
2. Add more hearts of varying sizes and colors to create a layered look.

By starting with these easy patterns, you can quickly master the fundamental techniques of paper quilling. As you gain confidence, you can experiment with more complex designs and even create your unique patterns. Enjoy the relaxing and rewarding experience of paper quilling, and watch as your beautiful creations come to life!

8. Paper Mosaics

Paper mosaics involve cutting and arranging small pieces of paper to create beautiful, intricate patterns and images.

This project is perfect for artists of all ages and skill levels, offering endless possibilities for creativity and design. By using different colors, shapes, and sizes of paper, you can construct captivating artworks that mimic traditional tile mosaics.

Materials Needed:

• Colored paper: Various colors and textures add depth and vibrancy.
• Scissors: For cutting the paper into small shapes.
• Glue: A strong adhesive to secure the pieces onto the base.
• Base paper or cardstock: The surface on which you’ll create your mosaic.
• Pencil and ruler: For drawing the design and guidelines.

Simple Project Ideas to Try Out

1. Geometric Patterns

• Materials Needed:
• Colored paper in contrasting shades
• Scissors
• Glue
• Base paper
• Instructions:

1. Cut the colored paper into small geometric shapes, such as squares, triangles, and hexagons.
2. Sketch out a simple geometric pattern on the base paper.
3. Arrange the shapes on the base paper to form the pattern.
4. Glue the pieces in place, ensuring they fit together neatly.

2. Nature Scenes

• Materials Needed:
• Green, blue, and brown colored paper
• Scissors
• Glue
• Base paper
• Instructions:

1. Cut the colored paper into various shapes to represent elements of nature, like leaves, flowers, and clouds.
2. Sketch a simple nature scene on the base paper.
3. Place the paper shapes onto the sketch, adjusting their position for the best composition.
4. Glue each piece in place, creating a vibrant nature scene.

3. Abstract Designs

• Materials Needed:
• Various colored paper
• Scissors
• Glue
• Base paper
• Instructions:

1. Cut the paper into random shapes of different sizes.
2. Experiment with arranging the shapes on the base paper without a predefined pattern.
3. Allow the shapes to overlap and intersect, creating an abstract design.
4. Once satisfied with the layout, glue the pieces down.

4. Portraits

• Materials Needed:
• Various tones of paper for skin, hair, and features
• Scissors
• Glue
• Base paper
• Instructions:

1. Sketch a simple portrait outline on the base paper.
2. Cut small pieces of paper to represent different parts of the portrait, such as hair, eyes, and lips.
3. Arrange and glue the pieces onto the sketch, paying attention to the placement to achieve a realistic look.

By experimenting with these simple ideas, you can explore the wonderful world of paper mosaics. As you become more comfortable with the technique, feel free to challenge yourself with more detailed and complex designs. Enjoy the process of cutting and arranging paper to create your stunning mosaiartworkks!

9. Paper Beads

Making paper beads is a delightful and eco-friendly craft that transforms scraps of paper into unique and beautiful beads, perfect for jewelry and decorations.

This versatile project allows you to experiment with colors, shapes, and sizes, offering endless possibilities for creativity.

Materials Needed:

• Paper: Magazines, colored paper, wrapping paper, or any lightweight paper.
• Ruler and pencil: For measuring and marking the paper strips.
• Scissors or craft knifeCutut the paper into strips.
• Toothpick or bamboo skewer: For rolling the paper strips.
• Glue: For securing the ends of the rolled beads.
• Sealant or varnish: To protect and finish the beads.
• String or elastic cord: For threading the beads into jewelry.

Step-by-Step Guide to Rolling and Finishing Paper Beads

1. Preparing the Paper:

1. Select the paper you wish to use. This can be anything from colorful magazine pages to specialty craft paper.
2. Use a ruler and pencil to mark out long, thin triangles on the paper. The base of each triangle will determine the bead’s width, while the length will influence the bead’s thickness.
3. Cut out the triangles with scissors or a craft knife.

2. Rolling the Beads:

1. Place the wide end of a triangle around the tip of a toothpick or bamboo skewer.
2. Begin rolling the paper around the skewer. Keep the paper taut and ensure it rolls evenly.
3. Continue rolling until you reach the tip of the triangle.
4. Apply a small amount of glue to the tip and press it down to secure the bead shape. Hold it in place for a moment to ensure it adheres properly.

3. Finishing the Beads:

1. Once the glue is dry, slide the bead off the skewer.
2. To protect your bead and give it a glossy finish, apply a coat of sealant or varnish. Let it dry completely.
3. Repeat the process for as many beads as you need for your project.

4. Creating Jewelry and Decorations:

1. String the finished beads onto a piece of string or elastic cord to create necklaces, bracelets, or earrings.
2. For decorative items, consider combining the beads with other materials like fabric, metal charms, or natural elements.

By following these steps, you can create beautiful, handmade paper beads that add a personal touch to your accessories and decorations. The process is simple, enjoyable, and a wonderful way to recycle paper. Enjoy crafting your unique beads and showcasing your creativity through your finished pieces!

10. Decoupage Crafts

Decoupage is an art form that involves decorating objects by gluing paper cutouts onto them and then coating them with layers of varnish or lacquer.

This versatile technique can transform everyday items into beautiful pieces of art, making it a popular choice for crafters of all skill levels. The key to decoupage is in the layering of images and patterns, which creates a cohesive and visually appealing surface.

Whether you’re upcycling old containers or creating bespoke gifts, decoupage offers endless opportunities for creativity.

Materials Needed:

• Objects to Decorate: Such as boxes, jars, or even furniture.
• Paper Cutouts: From magazines, wrapping paper, tissue paper, ospecialized decoupage paper.
• Scissors: For cutting out shapes and images.
• Decoupage Glue or Mod Podge: To adhere the paper to the object.
• Brushes: For applying glue and varnish.
• Varnish or Sealant: To protect and finish the decoupage surface.

Examples of Simple Decoupage Projects

1. Decorative Boxes

• Materials Needed:
• Wooden or cardboard boxes
• Paper cutouts
• Decoupage glue
• Brush
• Varnish
• Instructions:

1. Choose a box to decorate and select paper cutouts that fit your desired theme.
2. Arrange the cutouts on the box’s surface until you’re happy with the composition.
3. Apply a layer of decoupage glue to the box and press the cutouts into place.
4. Smooth out any wrinkles and apply additional glue over the top of the cutouts.
5. Once the glue is completely dry, add several coats of varnish to protect your design.

2. Customized Jars

• Materials Needed:
• Glass jars
• Paper cutouts
• Decoupage glue
• Brush
• Varnish
• Instructions:

1. Clean the jar thoroughly to ensure a smooth surface.
2. Cut out images and patterns that you want to use for your design.
3. Brush a layer of decoupage glue onto the jar and place your cutouts onto the glued areas.
4. Apply more glue over the top of the paper, ensuring all edges are sealed.
5. After the glue has dried, apply several coats of varnish to make the jar usable and washable.

3. Picture Frames

• Materials Needed:
• Plain wooden or plastic frames
• Paper cutouts
• Decoupage glue
• Brush
• Varnish
• Instructions:

1. Select a frame and prepare your paper cutouts.
2. Apply a layer of decoupage glue to the frame’s surface.
3. Position your cutouts on the glued areas, and overlapping pieces to create a layered effect.
4. Brush more glue over the top of the cutouts, smoothing out any wrinkles.
5. Once dry, coat the frame with varnish for a glossy finish.

Decoupage crafts can be as simple or as detailed as you wish, making them an excellent project for both beginners and experienced crafters. By experimenting with different types of paper and objects, you can create unique items that reflect your style and creativity. Enjoy the process of turning ordinary items into extraordinary works of art with decoupage!

Conclusion

Throughout this guide, we’ve explored various paper crafting projects, from rolling and finishing paper beads to creating stunning decoupage items. Each project demonstrates the versatility and beauty of paper crafts, providing you with opportunities to recycle materials and transform them into art.

Whether you’re new to paper crafting or an experienced artisan, these projects offer endless possibilities to showcase your creativity. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different papers, designs, and objects to make unique pieces that reflect your style.

We encourage you to continue exploring and creating more paper crafts. Countless techniques and ideas are waiting to be discovered. As you complete your projects, please share your creations on social media and tag the blog. We’d love to see your beautiful work and celebrate your artistic journey with our community!