I've made paper bow ties on several occasions, and always enjoyed doing so. They create not only the ability to look fancy in a pinch, but more so an interesting equilibrium between formality and casualness.

So whether you're brave enough to try to get away with wearing a paper bow tie to a formal event or just want to look particularly fancy around your friends, this project is for you.

Step 1: Materials List

Materials:

1 Sheet of Paper
1 Paperclip
Tape

Tools:

Printer
Scissors

Step 2: Print, Cut Out Template

I have designed a template for the bow tie and put it on a pdf. You should be able to download it and then print it. From there, simply cut the pieces out (there are 4) .

This is my first time creating a printable template, so if it doesn't work, please tell me in the comment section below, and I'll try to fix it. Also, feel free to make suggestions on how I can make templates better in the future.

Paper Bowtie.pdf
Download

Step 3: Fold Into Bow Tie Shape

After cutting out the template, take the largest of the four pieces you cut out, and fold it into the shape of a bow tie. This should take two folds.

Step 4: Taping, Etc.

Now that you have a basic bow tie shape, you'll want to tape around the center after bending it slightly in on itself. This may be easier if one person is keeping the paper slightly bent and another tapes it in place.

Once satisfied with the curve of the tie, use the smallest rectangle from the template to cover up the tape. Do this by taping it on the backside and folding it around the tie. Use another piece of tape to secure it (it should end up on the backside).

Step 5: Adjustable Strap

To add a strap to the rest of the tie, take one of the two long rectangles from the template and place it through the loop on the backside of the tie. Put a piece of tape on the end of the strap, with the sticky side facing up. The end of the strap without tape can then be pulled until the other end is under the loop. Then, take the tape on that end and secure it to the loop.

Then, attach the other long rectangle to the remaining end of the first with tape.

The strap can then be threaded through the loop.

Step 6: Try It On!

At this point in the project, the bow tie should be complete. The only thing left to do is try it on!

To do this, put it around your collar and put the strap through the loop on the back of the bow tie. A paperclip over the excess strap helps keep the strap from getting looser.

I hope you enjoyed this instructable! If you did, I'd really appreciate if you favorite it. Also, don't forget to share it with your friends so they can look as fancy as you. You're more than welcome to leave any questions, comments or suggestions in the section below. Thank you!

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