How to Make a Crazy Tie Out of Paper
When creating costumes for a party or school project, everyday objects such as paper can transform into something more inventive, like a crazy tie. Utilizing different materials -- such as paper that offers texture, weight and color variations -- gives you various outcomes. Make a standard necktie with shiny paper or an accordion-style bow tie with patterned wrapping paper to convey different impressions, according to the occasion.
Things You'll Need
- Cloth necktie or bow tie
- Wax or tracing paper
- Straight pins
- Ruler
- Wrapping, flocked or foil paper -- at least 5 feet long
- Scissors
- Tape
- Ribbon
- Markers
- Glitter
- Stickers
Instructions
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Necktie
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1
Pin or tape an old necktie to wax or tracing paper. Trace around the necktie, and cut out the outline with scissors.
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2
Lay the outline flat against wrapping, flocked or foil paper, and cut out the tie shape, using care to cut evenly.
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3
Tie the paper necktie around the neck carefully, to avoid tearing it.
Bow Tie
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4
Cut a piece of wrapping, flocked or foil paper to 8.5 by 11 inches. Fold the paper accordion-style, lengthwise. Secure it with a thin strip of paper in the center, taping the back.
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5
Trim or fold back the accordion "wings" on both sides, if desired. If folding back the paper, secure it with tape. Or leave it as is -- for a larger, crazier style.
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6
Attach two ribbons or thin strips of strong paper behind the bow tie, using tape, so it can be tied around the wearer's neck.
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1
Tips & Warnings
To ramp up the crazy factor, add a fun tiepin or gag add-on -- often available at costume shops -- such as a plastic, water-squirting flower or other accessory. If desired, color the finished tie with markers, and add glitter or stickers.
If a single sheet of the paper is not thick enough for your necktie to hold its shape, double the paper prior to cutting it and secure it with tape on the inside.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit RL Productions/Digital Vision/Getty Images
