Crafting enthusiasts, rejoice! If you’re looking for a quick and creative way to use up your Designer Series Paper (DSP), making your own bows is the perfect project. These bows are not only fun to create but also add a charming, handmade touch to your presents, gift bag, or decorations for any occasion.
I also have a handy video showing you how to make the bows right here:
Here’s how you can make them in just a few simple steps…
Supplies You’ll Need:
- Designer Series Paper (DSP)
- Adhesive (double-sided tape or glue)
- Take Your Pick tool (or a similar hole-poking tool)
- Piercing Mat
- Brad (for securing the loops)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cut Your Strips (change this depending on size of bow you would like to create – experiment and have some fun!)
- Cut five strips of DSP to 6 inches in length and 3/4 inches in width.
- Cut another five strips of DSP to 5 inches in length and 3/4 inches in width.
- Create Loops
- Take the 6-inch strips and loop the ends together, securing them with adhesive to form a teardrop shape. Repeat this with all five 6-inch strips.
- Do the same with the 5-inch strips to create slightly smaller loops.
- Poke Holes
- Use the Take Your Pick tool to carefully poke a hole in the joined ends of each loop where the adhesive holds them together.
- Assemble the Bow
- Begin by threading the 5-inch loops onto a brad through the holes. Fan them out to create the top layer of the bow.
- Add the 6-inch loops on top of the 6-inch loops using the same brad. Once all loops are in place, fan them out evenly to form the second layer.
- Finish the Center
- Take a final strip of DSP (a bit wider than the others, if you prefer) and create a circular loop. Adhere it to the center of your bow or simply place it inside the middle of the bow to hide the brad and complete the look.
Tips for Success:
- Experiment with different patterns of DSP for unique, eye-catching designs.
- If you don’t have a brad, you can use a strong adhesive or a small stapler to secure the loops.
- These bows can be made in various sizes; just adjust the length and width of your strips accordingly.
And voilà! You’ve created a gorgeous, handmade bow. Whether you’re using them to top a gift box or embellish a card, these bows are sure to impress. Try them out and share your creations—I’d love to see what you make!
Stampin’ Up! also have a bundle called the Take a Bow bundle where you get dies to create the strips. The paper in the bundle is gorgeous, and that’s what I chose to get. Since I already have a system for making the strips, I didn’t worry about the dies; however, the bundle is super handy if you’d like that.
Happy Crafting!
