Party hats are just so festive and fun; we like to include them whenever we throw a party. But because beautiful party hats are hard to find, most of the time we make our own out of cardstock (basic tutorial here.) This 3-Layer cake party hat is sure to please and is simple to make with materials you probably have at home now. (Click through for full instructions below.)

Materials: Paper plates, colorful card stock, thick ribbon, thin elastic cording, quick dry glue, something to trace circles from (we used a roll of masking tape), x-acto knife, ruler, pencil, scissors, tape

Step 1: Cut out three circles for the tops of each cake layer. For the first layer, simply cut out the inside circle portion of the paper plate. For the next layer, trace the outside of the masking tape onto a paper plate and cut it out. For the top layer, trace the inside of the masking tape onto the plate and cut it out.
Step 2: Cut out the sides for each layer of cake by measuring and cutting several strips of cardstock that are three inches wide.
Step 3: Determine the length you will need for each layer by holding the strips against each paper circle. (For the larger layers you will probably need to tape a couple of strips together to get enough length). After determining the length you will need, tape the ends together, creating a loop. Glue each loop down to the paper plate circles and let dry.
Step 4: Glue each layer together and then glue the whole cake onto another paper plate. Let it dry.
Step 5: Cut a long piece of ribbon and tie it into a big bow. Glue the bow to the top of the cake.
Step 6: Poke two small holes into the sides of the plate using the x-acto blade, and tie the elastic in place.

Photography by  Heather Zweig for Oh Happy Day
Art Direction by Jordan Ferney
Coordinated by Stacy Wichelhaus
Crafting by Jessica Heywood
Assisted by Harper Casimiro