Summary:
In this blog post I will tell you how to make bow straw toppers step by step using simple tools and materials. You will learn how to choose a bow straw topper template, how to use ribbon to make cute toppers, and how to design and sell them too. I will also share my own good and bad experiences during each step.
Introduction:
Bow straw toppers are small decorative bows that sit on top of your drink straws, especially used on tumblers like Stanley Cups. These toppers are popular for party drinks, gifts, and craft sales. People love adding them to Stanley tumblers to give a cute and stylish look.
If you're crafty and like working with ribbons or cute designs, learning how to make bow straw toppers can be fun—and even a small business idea! You can use ribbons, faux leather, or even templates to shape the bow and glue it onto a small straw ring. Let’s now learn step-by-step how to do it.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Bow Straw Toppers
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies and Template
To start, you need a few simple things:
- Ribbon or faux leather
- Hot glue gun
- Scissors
- Straw ring base
- Bow straw topper template (printable or cut with Cricut/Silhouette)
- Ruler or measuring tape
Good Experience: I used a glittery faux leather sheet for my first try and it turned out super cute.
Bad Experience: I didn’t print the right size bow straw topper template, so my first bow was too big for the straw.
Make sure your template matches the size of your straw (standard or Stanley Cup straw).
Step 2: Cut the Bow Pieces Using Template
Use your stanley bow template or regular bow shape to cut out the pieces. Most templates include:
- Main bow loop
- Tail piece
- Middle wrap
If you're using Cricut, load the design and set the blade correctly. If you're using scissors, trace and cut carefully.
Good Experience: Cutting with my Cricut gave clean, smooth edges.
Bad Experience: When I used thick ribbon, cutting with scissors was messy and uneven.
Step 3: Fold and Glue the Bow Shape
Take the main loop piece and gently fold both sides into the center to make a bow shape. Use your glue gun to stick them in the middle. Then add the tail piece behind and wrap the middle strip around to finish the bow.
Good Experience: I used fabric clips to hold pieces together while the glue dried—super helpful!
Bad Experience: I burned my finger once using the glue gun too quickly—be careful.
This is the most fun part because you get to see your bow come to life!
Step 4: Attach the Bow to the Straw Ring Base
Use hot glue to stick your finished bow to a straw ring (plastic or silicone). These rings are what let the bow sit tightly on the straw without falling off.
Good Experience: I used silicone rings, and they held the bow very well.
Bad Experience: Once I used a plastic ring that didn’t fit properly and the topper kept sliding off.
This step is key to turning your bow into a real stanley bow straw topper!
Step 5: Decorate Your Bow for Style
Add extra flair using:
- Mini rhinestones
- Beads
- Glitter glue
- Charms
Try out cute stanley bow design ideas like:
- Pink glitter bow with a heart charm
- Neon rainbow bow with small beads
Good Experience: I decorated one bow with tiny pearls, and it looked perfect for gifting.
Bad Experience: Overdecorating made one bow too heavy, and it drooped on the straw.
Remember—less is more when decorating your straw toppers.
Step 6: Try with Different Ribbons or Faux Leather
Want to know how to make bow straw toppers with ribbon? Try using satin, organza, or grosgrain ribbon instead of leather. Cut and glue it just like the faux leather version.
Good Experience: I made a bow with polka-dot ribbon, and it looked super playful and cute.
Bad Experience: Thin ribbons didn’t hold the shape well—they became floppy.
If you want strong bows, try double-layering the ribbon.
Step 7: Package and Sell Your Bow Toppers
If you want to learn how to make bow straw toppers to sell, here's how:
- Make multiple designs (festive, neutral, girly)
- Package them nicely in clear bags
- Take pretty photos for your online shop
Keep a notebook to record sizes, costs, and customer preferences.
Make Cute Bow Straw Toppers and Share Your Style!
Learning how to make bow straw toppers is fun, easy, and creative. Whether you're doing it for yourself, for gifting, or to start a small business, just follow these 7 steps. Use the right bow straw topper template, choose cute ribbons, and don’t be afraid to try different stanley bow designs.
FAQs:
Q1. What materials are best for bow straw toppers?
Ans: Faux leather, thick ribbon, and silicone rings work best. They’re sturdy and hold the shape well.
Q2. Can I use a bow straw topper on any cup?
Ans: Yes, but they work best on cups with reusable straws like Stanley or tumblers.
Q3. How do I clean a bow straw topper?
Ans: Use a damp cloth to wipe the bow. Do not soak in water, especially if using glue or fabric.