You probably have a drawer. You know the one. It’s stuffed with a chaotic tangle of ribbon scraps from birthday presents, gift bags that were too pretty to throw away, and that one spool you bought for a wreath project three years ago and never started.
I’ve been there. My “ribbon drawer” is more of a “ribbon explosion in a plastic bin,” and for the longest time, I just couldn’t figure out what to do with all of it besides the occasional sloppy bow. But then, I started playing around. And let me tell you, ribbon is seriously underrated. It’s not just for wrapping presents anymore.
I’ve gathered 15 of my absolute favorite DIY ribbon crafts that are actually doable. No origami-level bow-tying skills required. Just you, your stash, and a hot glue gun ready to make some magic. Let’s finally give that ribbon the life it deserves, shall we?
1. The “No-Skill” Boho Ribbon Wall Hanging
You know those gorgeous, textured wall hangings that cost a small fortune on Etsy? You can make one. Seriously.
- What You’ll Need: A small wooden dowel or even a sturdy stick from the backyard, various ribbons in different textures and widths (think lace, burlap, satin, grosgrain), and scissors.
- The Method: This is almost too easy. Cut your ribbons to your desired length (I like to stagger them for a more dynamic look). Simply drape each piece over the dowel and decide if you want to knot it, let it hang loose, or do a simple loop. Once you’re happy with the arrangement, a tiny dab of hot glue on the back of the dowel keeps everything in place.
- Why I Love It: It’s forgiving. If you cut a piece too short? Just use it as a top layer. It adds instant texture to a blank wall, and it’s a great conversation starter. “Oh, this old thing? I just threw it together.” 😉
2. Upcycled Utensils: Plain Jane to Fancy Pants
Ever host a dinner party and realize your napkin game is weak? I have. It’s a tragedy we can fix with a glue gun and some scrap ribbon.
- What You’ll Need: Plain napkin rings (wooden or plastic are perfect), or even just some cardboard tubes cut into 2-inch sections. You’ll also need a mix of coordinating ribbons and your trusty hot glue gun.
- The Method: Apply a thin line of glue to the napkin ring and start wrapping your ribbon tightly around it. Overlap the edges slightly as you go. Mix in a thinner ribbon to wrap over the base ribbon for a layered look.
- Pro-Tip: I once used an old, stained napkin ring and completely covered it with a beautiful jacquard ribbon. No one knew its dark, shameful past. Finish with a small dab of glue to secure the end, and you’ve got custom tableware in under five minutes.
3. Tassel Earrings (Because Store-Bought is Overrated)
If you’re like me and constantly lose one earring from every pair you own, making your own is the only logical solution. Plus, ribbon tassel earrings are lightweight and so fun.
- What You’ll Need: A small piece of cardboard (like from a cereal box), thin ribbon (satin or rayon seam binding works best), earring hooks, jump rings, and jewelry pliers.
- The Method:
- Wrap the ribbon around the cardboard width-wise about 20-30 times. The wider the cardboard, the longer the tassel.
- Carefully slide the loops off the cardboard.
- Cut a separate short piece of ribbon and tie it tightly around the top of the loops to form the tassel head.
- Cut through the bottom loops.
- Attach a jump ring to the tied head, then attach your earring hook.
- The Result: Custom, feather-light earrings that cost pennies to make. I get compliments on mine every single time I wear them. IMO, they look way more expensive than they are.
4. Revamp a Boring Lamp Shade
Got a lamp from a thrift store that’s seen better days? Or maybe a perfectly fine lamp that’s just… beige? Ribbon to the rescue.
- What You’ll Need: A fabric lamp shade, ribbon (consider using grosgrain for texture or satin for sheen), and fabric glue or hot glue.
- The Method: Start at the top seam. Apply a line of glue and attach the end of your ribbon. Wrap the ribbon vertically down to the bottom seam, pull taut, and glue at the bottom. Repeat all the way around the shade, spacing the ribbons evenly.
- Designer Hack: You can also do horizontal stripes. Or, for a truly chic look, use a single wide ribbon and wrap it around the middle of the shade like a belt. It instantly updates the whole piece. Ever wondered why designers charge so much? It’s because they know about tricks like this.
5. Custom Bookmark for the Literary Type
I’m a big believer in physical books, and I’m also a big believer in not dog-earing pages. (Don’t @ me). This solves that problem beautifully.
- What You’ll Need: A paperclip (the long, decorative ones work best, but a standard one is fine), a length of ribbon (about 8-10 inches), and a bead or charm (optional).
- The Method: Thread one end of the ribbon through the loop of the paperclip. Fold the ribbon over so the ends meet. You can tie a simple knot right at the clip to secure it. String a bead onto both ends of the ribbon and tie another knot to keep it in place.
- Why This Works: It’s a simple, elegant way to mark your page, and the ribbon hangs out of the book like a fancy little tail. Plus, it makes you feel smarter just holding it.
6. The “Lazy Girl” Bow for Wreaths and Gifts
I hate making elaborate, multi-loop bows. They frustrate me, and they never look symmetrical. This method is my secret weapon for getting that perfect, fluffy bow without the tears.
- What You’ll Need: Wide ribbon (wire-edged is best for shaping), floral wire, and scissors.
- The Method:
- Create several loops of varying sizes, pinching them together in the center. Don’t overthink it! Just make a bunch of loops.
- Secure the pinched center tightly with a piece of floral wire.
- Fluff and separate the loops, twisting and arranging them until it looks full and fabulous.
- The Verdict: It looks like you spent an hour on it. You didn’t. Your secret is safe with me.
7. Adorable Ribbon Hair Clips
If you have little ones (or you just like fun hair accessories yourself), this is a no-brainer. It’s a great way to use up those tiny scraps of ribbon you can’t bear to throw away.
- What You’ll Need: Alligator clips or snap clips, a glue gun, and ribbon scraps.
- The Method: You can create simple folded bows, or for an even easier option, cut a piece of ribbon slightly longer than the clip. Glue one end to the inside of the clip, wrap it tightly around the clip, and glue the other end on the inside. Instant color!
8. Mason Jar Makeover
Mason jars are the little black dress of the crafting world. They go with everything. Dress one up with ribbon for a vase, a pencil holder, or a cute catch-all for your nightstand.
- What You’ll Need: A clean mason jar, ribbon, and Mod Podge or strong glue.
- The Method: You can simply tie a ribbon around the neck of the jar for a quick fix. For a more permanent solution, use Mod Podge to decoupage strips of ribbon vertically around the jar. Overlap them slightly for a completely covered, textured look.
9. A Gift Topper That Isn’t Just a Bow
Look, a bow is great. But sometimes you want to be that person whose gift looks amazing even before it’s opened. This is how you become that person.
- What You’ll Need: Your wrapped gift, ribbon, and small artificial flowers or greenery.
- The Method: Wrap your box with ribbon as usual, crossing the ends on top. Before you tie them, lay a small stem of artificial greenery or a couple of flowers on the box. Tie the ribbon tightly over the stems to secure them in place. It looks so professional and thoughtful.
10. DIY Ribbon Wrapped Candles
Plain pillar candles are a dime a dozen. Ribbon-wrapped candles? They’re a statement piece. But safety first, folks! Never leave a burning candle unattended, and trim the wick so it’s low.
- What You’ll Need: A thick pillar candle, decorative pins (the ones with the flat, round heads), and ribbon.
- The Method: Pin one end of the ribbon to the base of the candle. Wrap the ribbon tightly around the candle, overlapping the edges slightly. Use another pin to secure the ribbon at the top. You can space the pins evenly for a tailored look, or use them decoratively.
11. Pet Toy (Because Fido Deserves Style Too)
My dog, Cooper, is a notorious toy destroyer. But even he respects a good ribbon tug toy. And if he doesn’t, it took me five minutes to make, so no big loss.
- What You’ll Need: Thick, durable ribbons (avoid anything that frays easily) or strips of old fabric.
- The Method: Cut several long strips of ribbon. Gather them together and tie a tight knot at one end. Braid the strips together and tie another tight knot at the other end. It’s a simple, free toy that dogs love.
12. Embroidered Ribbon Hoop Art
Embroidery hoops aren’t just for needlepoint anymore. They’re for displaying pretty much anything. And ribbon is perfect for this.
- What You’ll Need: An embroidery hoop, a piece of fabric or felt, and your ribbon stash.
- The Method: Stretch your fabric in the hoop and tighten it. Now, get creative! You can glue ribbons on in geometric patterns, create a cascading ribbon waterfall from the top, or simply spell out a word with thin ribbon.
13. Streamline Your Workspace: DIY Ribbon Bulletin Board
My desk is a disaster zone of to-do lists and inspiration photos. A ribbon board helps me organize the chaos in a visually pleasing way.
- What You’ll Need: A corkboard or a piece of foam core, ribbons, and push pins.
- The Method: This is pure geometry. Stretch ribbons across the board vertically and horizontally, creating a grid. Pin the ends of the ribbons to the back of the board to hold them taut. Now you can tuck photos and notes behind the ribbons without using a ton of push pins. It’s functional and decorative.
14. Make Your Own Party Bunting
Store-bought banners are fine, but they’re never in the exact colors you want. DIY ribbon bunting solves that.
- What You’ll Need: A long piece of string or twine, and a variety of ribbon scraps in different lengths.
- The Method: Simply tie your ribbon scraps onto the long string. That’s it. Tie them close together for a full, festive look, or space them out for something more minimalist. Drape it over a mantle, a door frame, or along a buffet table for instant party vibes.
15. The Key to Boring Keys
Let’s end with a super practical one. Ever fumble with your keys in the dark, trying to find the right one? Same. Ribbon to the rescue.
- What You’ll Need: Your keys, a selection of different colored ribbons, and clear nail polish or a lighter (to stop the fraying).
- The Method: Thread a different color of ribbon through the head of each key. Tie a secure knot. If you’re using a synthetic ribbon, carefully melt the cut end with a lighter to prevent fraying. If using natural fiber, a dab of clear nail polish works wonders. Now, you’ll never confuse your house key with your car key again. It’s a tiny life hack that makes a big difference.
So, there you have it. Fifteen ways to turn that tangled mess in your drawer into something beautiful, useful, or just plain fun. I dare you to pick just one project to start with—I bet you can’t stop there. Now go forth and make something awesome! And hey, if you come up with your own genius ribbon idea, you have to tell me about it. 🙂
