As the time comes to wrap up Christmas gifts this season, why not try something different? Skip the ribbons and string this year and opt for 3D paper bows instead! They’re unique, customizable and reusable…not to mention recyclable. There are at least THREE different techniques for making paper bows at home, and they’re all very easy to complete with or without templates. Mix and match paper patterns and colors, and prepare to up your gift wrap game!
Materials:
- Cardstock paper
- Scissors
- Double sided tape
- Paper cutter (recommended)
- Paper bow template
Bow Style #1
Step
Cut a square in any size, and cut a ribbon-like bottom using the bow template. This example is 4.5 inches square.
Step
Fold the square corner to corner, then fold it the opposite corner to corner, creating a grid. Cut along the diagonal folds, meeting in the middle of paper but leaving a small landing to keep the piece intact. The result looks like the below photo.
Step
Place a piece of double sided tape in the middle. Bend the four pointed corners into the middle and stick to the tape.
Step
Cut a small rectangle of paper and wrap around the middle with another piece of double sided tape. Then use tape to attach the ribbon bottom to the backside of the bow.
Bow Style #2
Step
Cut out the three-piece bow template. Feel free to mix colors/patterns.
Step
Place a piece of double sided tape in the middle of the largest piece.
Step
Bend the ends to meet in the middle, sticking to the tape. Wrap the remaining piece around the middle to cover it, adhering with another piece of tape.
Step
Use another piece of tape to stick the bow to the back ribbon.
Bow Style #3
Step
Cut 7 strips of paper, about 1 inch wide and 8 inches long. It’s easiest to use a paper cutter if you have one.
Step
With double sided tape, loop 6 of the 7 pieces and adhere the ends together. Then press down the middle of the loop and stick together with another piece of tape.
Step
Layer the pieces on top of each other off-center to create the bow.
Step
Cut the remaining strip in half. Loop the ends together with tape and stick to the middle of the bow to complete it.
There you have it! With these three ways to make paper bows, your Christmas gifts will look better than ever. I know I appreciate a well-wrapped gift, and I’m sure your friends and family will too!
