Make a last minute bow

It’s about this time of the month where I run out of wrapping supplies. Typically I only have a couple more gifts to go and run out of something like bows! Instead of making a last minute run to the store, why not make your own? Hi, it’s Maureen (A Little Mo Crafty) and I’m going to show you an easy idea for last minute gift wrapping. Using CutCardStock paper is a great idea to use up your scraps – AND better for the environment too!

Start with a circle cut at approximately 2.25″. I used a stitched die cut but you can cut this by hand also. Cut several strips of cardstock in 2 different widths. I cut mine at 4.5″ by .5″ and another at 4.5″ by .25″. The colors I chose in this example are Stardream Metallic Jupiter Red and Stardream Metallic Rose Quartz.

Next, glue the tips of each strip together, forming a loop with the paper. I used hot glue so the assembly would be faster, using a lower heat setting. At this size, you will need approximately 8 loops to go around completely for each layer. I made 2 layers for each width.

Start with the fatter strips and glue them to the circle at approximately .25″ in from the edge. A couple of tips for you: make sure you are always gluing them straight on and not at an angle, and lay them out first so you keep them even. Additionally, use a pencil to mark your spot if needed.

Since I used 2 colors, I applied them in alternating fashion. Another idea might be to do one color with the first layer and another with the second.

After you’ve gone completely around with the fatter strips, now do the same with the thinner ones. Adhere these a smidge more into the center than before. For alternating colors, try adding red over pink to break up the pattern.

Now you will repeat the process with the second set of fatter strips. Move these in a smidge closer to the center. You’ll notice these will overlap in the middle. Finish the process with the second set of thinner strips.

Now, cut a 1″ circle for your center. Attach several foam dots to the back to allow it to pop up above the bow and glue it in. Another option is to fill in the center with some cute ephemera or a large gem or sentiment.

Here’s a different one I made in DCS Bonzai Green and Lessebo Hunter Green. They look so cute on both boxes and bags! You can also make smaller ones by reducing the width and length of the strips and circles.

This simple project was so easy to complete while I sat and watched some Christmas movies! It only took me minutes to cut and assemble. What colors would you try? Make sure you check out the wide varieties of colors available on the CutCardStock site. And, happy wrapping!