Folder Holder and 'How to make a bow'

I made this to go on my desk to hold some of my uni bits, because, organisation is the answer, and I'm not good at organisation...so I find injecting a bit of pretty into something you're not good at always helps!

Heres how I did it;

Mark a line along the edge of a washing powder or cereal box. Then from this line up to each opposite top corner.

Before cutting using a craft knife.

Then paint the whole thing with a nice thick acrylic - obviously I felt bad painting over Snap, Crackle and Pop's excited little faces, but I quickly got over it.

Cut out a short length and a long length of material, I used the very scientific method of placing the edge I wanted to cover against the material and drawing round it! Always iron it first and stick on using good old craft mount.

Now for the bow attachment;

Take a piece of the same material, I didn't measure it but it was probably about 30cm by 40cm for those that need specifics - this doesn't really matter though as it can be any size you like. Iron it out.

fold inwards, like doors. Lengthways first...and iron again.

Then fold the short ends in. Iron.

Turn the fabric over and fold like this; make sure it goes so that there's an up fold at the centre and down folds at the top and bottom of the bow, I used a kirby grip to hold these folds in place.

Wind some white cotton round and knot before removing the kirby.

To make the centre strut just take a small strip of the same fabric and fold in lengthways and (yes, you've guessed it.) Iron...I'm sure this is this most ironing I've done in years!Wrap it round and make a few stitches before cutting away the excess and sewing round the exposed edge (don't worry you won't see this bit.)
Et voila...

To attach it to your folder holder use a hot glue gun or some strong glue. You could also use these bows to attach to hair clips or Alice bands if you want to use them to jazz up something a bit dull or give it a new lease of life.