How to Make a Paper Bow

I loved this tutorial by How About Orange, and by love, I mean am obsessed with this idea. I love the traditional gift bow, but for the life of me, I haven't been able to teach myself how to make one! This tutorial lets you create the look of that perfect bow, but it's easier and more interesting at the same time! I couldn't wait to try this craft and it was definitely a success!

I followed the instructions pretty closely, but wanted to add my own twist by incorporating the stitching I have been using with all my presents this year. So, I cut my paper exactly to the specifications How About Orange gives:

3 strips 11" x 3/4"

3 strips 10" x  3/4"

2 strips 9" x 3/4"

1 strip 3 1/2 x 3/4"

First, instead of jumping right into the bow assembly, I ran my Sew Easy piercing tool down the center of each strip and gave it a stitched up design with twine. This requires a fair amount of manhandling, so I ironed my strips after all the stitching was done. A little extra work, but it turned out really unique - be sure to use a low heat so you don't burn the paper!

Next, I followed the directions to make figure eights out of my paper strips, and secured each with a staple. I assembled as instructed, but only ended up using two of the 10" strips and one of the 9" inch strips. 

I secured each layer with a small round roll of packing tape and then added the final piece to the center. Voila! I was so happy with how this turned out; I decided to try another take on the tutorial and super-size it. 

Same story as before, I just cut the strips exactly twice as large:

3 strips 22”x 1.5”

3 strips 20”x 1.5”

2 strips 18”x 1.5”

1 strip 7”x 1.5”

Then assemble same as before. Super easy and such a simple and elegant touch. Craft paper was fine for this size, but if you go any larger I would use a heavier weight!

Love your Sew Easy stitcher and twine as much as we do? Make some matching DIY stitched cards to pair with your presents!