DIY Paper Bow - Free Template
/Learn how to make quick and easy paper bows out of scrapbook paper or wrapping paper. Download and print the FREE template to create a unique gift bow for a fraction of the price of a store-bought one.
Whether you’re looking to add a finishing touch to a gift or make a cute party decoration these DIY paper bows are just the thing.
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Printable Paper Bow Template.
Looking to make an easy paper bow? Try this Printable Bow Template. They're so easy to make and can be easily customised using different coloured and patterned paper.
I always like to add a handmade touch to a gift box or bag and these DIY bows are a perfect way to do it. They're a cheap and simple way to add a colourful finishing touch to a gift.
DIY Paper Bows.
I've made a couple of different bows before (you can find my origami bows here and my origami bow ties here) but these are by far the easiest. All you need to do is download the template and cut out the pieces.
I’ve left the template blank so you can print it onto the back of some scrapbook paper as I have or onto some plain lightweight cardstock. That way you can trace around the blank template onto some gift wrap or magazine pages.
Handmade Bows DIY.
My favourite paper for this sort of paper project is scrapbook paper as it’s more of a lightweight cardstock than paper. Scrapbook.com has a fantastic range but I am particularly partial to anything by American Crafts, particularly the Paige Evans - Splendid Collection and the Maggie Holmes - Round Trip Collection.
Once you’ve printed and cut out your bow pieces you can use mini glue dots, hot glue or double-sided sticky tape (my personal favourite) to put them together.
You need to take the middle piece, glue the two outer tabs into the centre and then stick this onto the back ribbon piece. Wrap the last strip of paper around the centre to finish it off.
The template makes it an easy way to whip up pretty paper gift bows in minutes.
Printable Bow Template.
Supplies:
DIY Paper Bow Template (download bu signing up below)
Scrapbook Paper / Gift Wrap / Magazines / Old Comics
Printer
Scissors or Paper Trimmer
Double-sided Tape / Glue Dots / Hot Glue Gun
How To Make A Paper Bow.
1. Download the DIY bow template (find below).
2. Print the template onto lightweight cardstock or thick paper and carefully cut it out.
If you’re using scrapbook paper make sure to trim it to size first.
3. For each bow you will need three pieces (there are two of each on the template). Take the piece that looks like a pair of glasses and lay it down flat.
If you’re using double-sided paper like I am make sure to lay it with your chosen side facing down.
4. To make the top of the bow shape fold both side tabs into the centre and secure using strong double-sided tape or mini glue dots.
Make sure you use a strong double-tape or hot glue. I did a test run with a glue stick and they all popped undone after a couple of hours.
5. Assemble your bow by taking the top piece you’ve just made and securing it to the bow tails base (the piece with the fish tail ends) using a little glue or more double-sided tape.
6. Take the last piece (the small rectangle) and wrap it around the centre of both pieces of your bow.
7. Secure using some more glue or tape to finish.
These homemade bows can be used all year round so make sure to hang onto the template for future use. Pop them on a bottle of prosecco for a birthday, hang them from a tree at Christmas or string them up as a garland for a party or baby shower.
