All Instructions

DIY 3D Fabric and Felt Bows – Step-by-Step Guide

3D Felt and Fabric Bow Tutorial

Learn how to create adorable 3D bows using felt and fabric scraps! This simple in-the-hoop project is perfect for adding a handmade touch to gifts, accessories, or decorations. Let’s get started!

A collection of finished 3D felt bows with patriotic star and stripe designs.

Supplies You'll Need

  • Felt fabric (for the base of the bow)
  • Scraps of fabric for appliqué (such as white, blue, red, etc.)
  • Tear-away stabilizer
  • Hand sewing needle or a hot glue gun
  • Temporary fabric tape or spray adhesive (optional, for holding fabric in place)

Embroidering the Bow Pieces

The bow pieces embroidered on a sheet of felt in an embroidery hoop.

Standard Appliqué Process:

  1. The first stitch will mark the placement for the bow appliqué.
  2. Stop your machine (but don’t unhoop!), place the appliqué fabric inside the outline, and continue stitching.
  3. Next, the machine will sew the tack-down seam. Stop the machine again and carefully trim away the excess fabric.
  4. Some bows use two different fabrics. If that’s the case, simply repeat the steps: place the second fabric, run the tack-down stitch, stop the machine, and trim.
  5. After the appliqué is complete, your machine will stitch any stars, stripes, or other decorative details.

Assembling the 3D Bow

Now it’s time to unhoop your project and carefully cut out the bow shapes.

The embroidered bow pieces cut out from the felt.All the necessary felt pieces for one bow laid out and ready for assembly.

First, fold your main bow shape in half to start forming the 3D effect.

The main bow piece being folded in half.

Thread your needle, take a couple of stitches through the center to hold the fold in place, and tie it off securely.

Hand-stitching the center of the folded bow to hold its shape.

All the hand sewing is done using one continuous thread—first to secure the folded bow, then to stitch it to the second piece, and finally to attach the center ribbon.

Showing the continuous thread used for assembly.

Do not cut the thread yet—you’ll need it for a few more stitches in the next steps.

The first part of the bow is secured, with the needle and thread still attached.

Placing the folded top bow piece onto the bottom tail piece.

Take the second part of the bow (the tails) and stitch it to the first piece using the same thread.

Add a couple of securing stitches and tie it off—but don’t cut the thread yet! You’ll still need it to attach the center piece of the bow.

Stitching the top and bottom bow pieces together from the back.

Now it’s time to attach the centerpiece to your bow.

Wrap the centerpiece around the middle of the bow and stitch it in place on the back with a few hand stitches. Tie off your thread securely—these will be your final stitches.

If you'd like, you can continue using the same thread to sew the finished bow directly onto your project.

The completed 3D felt bow after all pieces have been assembled.

That’s it—your 3D bow is ready!

Feel free to get creative and use these bows on hair accessories, bags, clothing, or home decor projects. Each one is uniquely charming and full of handmade personality.

If you have any questions or need help along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to help!

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