Wrapping Paper Bow

I think everyone knows someone who saves used wrapping paper. Today, I'm going to turn you into one of those people. There are many uses for used wrapping paper such as book covers, creating sewing patterns, and more. Today's project comes from All Free Crafts. Turn your old wrapping paper into a decorative bow for your next gift! It'll save you several dollars on buying a generic one from the store.

WRAPPING PAPER BOW

WHAT YOU WILL NEED:

• Used wrapping paper
• Invisible tape (Scotch tape)
• Small piece of cardboard
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Optional: Double sided tape to use when sticking the bow on the package
  

HOW TO MAKE IT:

1. Cut the wrapping paper into strips that are approximately 4 inches long and 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch wide. You don't have to use a ruler to cut each strip, but try to make them all the same size.
2. Cut a 1 1/2 inch square of thin cardboard (tip: cut an old cereal box).
3. Take a cut strip of wrapping paper and fold it over into a curled loop, with the plain sides together. Bring one end about 1/8 inch away from the other end and hold it in place with a small piece of invisible tape, allowing the tape to extend past both ends about 1/8 inch.
4. Stick the first loop down on the cardboard square, centered at the edge of one side. Repeat with three more paper loops, so you have a loop in the middle of each side.
5. Take four more loops and stick them down at the corners of the square. (See reference photo #1 below)
6. Continue making paper loops, sticking each one down just in front of, and between two loops from the previous row. The bow will begin to fill in. (See reference photo #2 below)
7. When you get to the center of the small square, make a single loop and stick this down in the middle. Fluff the bow gently with your fingers and it should look like the completed bow. (See finished photo above) It is now ready to decorate your gift.
8. Stick the bow onto a wrapped gift by making a loop of invisible tape with the sticky side out or use a small tab of double-sided tape.

<--Reference Photo 1

Reference Photo 2 -->