I like big bows and I can't lie..
From:Emily Fazio Emily Fazio
When it comes to gift wrapping, you may not realize right away that classic bows are really quite simple to make. Instead of getting stuck with whatever is left in the 50-bow variety pack you picked up at the convenience store when you were restocking on a clear tape, learn an important life skill and master the art of making your own bow. If you're thinking outside the box (wrap up pun), consider an oversized bow as an accent in your home. Follow my lead and use two sheets of cardstock, a stapler, and some hot glue to create a bow that makes a statement.
I can think of a few things I'd love to get for Christmas that would warrant a gift bow as big as the one pictured here... a new table saw, a new washing machine... probably won't wake up to a new luxury vehicle, Although a girl can dream. For now, at the back of our front door is a large archway. It has a diameter of 24"..
From:Emily Fazio Emily Fazio
Start by measuring and cutting your two sheets of card stock. Banner board is heavier than regular paper and is an ideal choice for making a large, sturdy bow. Lighter weight paper, like plain printing paper or wrapping paper, is ideal for smaller bows.
Cut a piece of cardboard into five strips lengthwise. Mine are about 4-1/2” wide. Cut the second sheet of cardstock a little differently; Cut a wide piece off the end of the short edge of the paper. This will be the center of your bow. Cut the rest into five more strips, keeping in mind that they will be shorter in length than the pieces you cut from the first piece of card stock. If I have any advice, you may want to cut the end wider than I did in the picture above - aim for 8" - so you can be sure the center of the bow is bulky. Depending on how the bow is put together for you, center roll can be 5"-8" wide.
From:Emily Fazio Emily Fazio
Using the stapler, start assembling each piece of your arch. Fold each length of paper so that the end is looped like you can see here. Staple in place.
When placed, the long lengths of paper will form the outer "flower."
From:Emily Fazio Emily Fazio
Repeat this process with the shorter lengths of paper, which will produce slightly shorter pieces that fit on top to form the inner "flower."
From:Emily Fazio Emily Fazio
At this point, heat the glue gun and glue each layer together, one piece at a time, bottom "flower" first, then top flower.
From:Emily Fazio Emily Fazio
Loop the short length of paper that will form the center of the bow. Staple then glue it into position.
From:Emily Fazio Emily Fazio
Use a piece of mounting tape to attach the bow to your wall (or to the big gift that will be sitting under the tree on Christmas morning).
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