Paper Bow Garland Tutorial

I've said it before, and I'll say it again - I am about as un-crafty as they come. People don't believe me, but it's true! I don't even know how many unfinished projects I have laying around my home, just because I didn't like how they were turning out. That being said, every once in a while I'll try a project that just works. 

I saw this feature on Green Wedding Shoes a few weeks ago, and I fell in LOVE. I mean, that dessert table? Full of bows! How could I not love it?

As soon as I saw it, I was reminded of this paper bow tutorial I saw last year on How About Orange, and I knew even I could figure out how to make a bow garland. The only thing about this template, however, was that it had the wrong type of ends for this type of project. I wanted the ribbon to hang down from the bow, not out the side. So, I created my own template.

Anyway, I know you're all wondering how the finished project turned out, and I'm proud to announce that I actually succeeded at a DIY for once!

My sweet husband made most of the bows for this project. He's a good blog husband.

Paper Bow Garland Tutorial

1 // Print out the paper bow template, which can be downloaded here as a PDF, and cut out the shapes.

2 // Trace the bow shapes (four total) onto different colored and patterned paper, and cut them out. To make the bow, fold the rounded shape so that the two ends meet in the middle, and tape together. Wrap the small, rectangular shape around the center of the rounded shape, and tape shut. Take the two longer pieces, shaped like banners, and tape to the back of the bow so that the cut out pieces hang below. Trim as you like.

3 // Take a long ribbon or string and tape to the back of the bows, leaving a couple inches in between each bow.