Creating beautiful, customized ribbon bows can be a fun and satisfying project, especially when using the unique combination of Artesprix sublimation and Cricut Infusible Ink Sheets. In this post, we’ll dive into the step-by-step process to craft these vibrant ribbon bows for hair accessories or decorative pieces.
Artesprix and Sublimation
If you didn’t know, sublimation is a fun process that enables you to transfer your design to a compatible blank. Instead of sitting on top of the blank like htv or vinyl, the ink actually becomes part of the blank. The process requires high heat (usually around 400 degrees), sublimation ink, a properly coated blank, and firm, direct pressure.
Artesprix is one of my favorite crafting products. I try to create at least a couple of projects each month using either Iron-On-Ink markers, paint, ink, or sublimation blanks. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or new to the world of sublimation, this project offers a fun, creative outlet. We’re working with satin-like ribbon and Cricut Infusible Ink to create unique bows that promise to sparkle wherever you use them.
You can follow along with me as I make this project (it was a live recording) by hitting “play” on the video below.
Materials and Supplies
Here’s what I used to create my cute sublimation hair bow.
- Artesprix satin ribbon
- protective paper
- Cricut Infusible Ink Sheets
- heat tape
- scissors
- needle and thread
- double-sided tape
- faux leather scraps or ribbon scraps
- embellishments
- lint roller
- glue gun and glue sticks
- alligator hair clip
Preparation: Cutting the Ribbon
Start by measuring out your ribbon. For each bow, you will need two cuts of ribbon: one 8-inch piece and one 6.5-inch piece. Adjust these measurements if you’re adding tails to your bows for a Sailor Bow effect. Neatly cut your ribbon and prepare them for sublimation. My Glassboard Studios glass cutting mat makes it easy to measure out the ribbon pieces I need.
Sublimating the Ribbon
Unwrap your Cricut Infusible Ink Sheets, cutting them to overlap slightly with your ribbon. This overlap ensures a seamless transfer. Remember, the sheets may look muted before heat activation, but the vibrant colors will shine through once heated.
Line your ribbon and ink sheets together on the protective paper, securing them with heat tape. Be careful not to get the heat tape underneath your ribbon as it may block parts of the transfer. Set your heat press to 400 degrees for 90 seconds—this ensures optimal ink transfer.
Crafting the Bow
Once your sublimation is complete, peel away any excess tape. Fold each ribbon piece widthwise, positioning your double-sided tape in the center. This central tape guides the ribbon folds. Fold each end of the ribbon to the middle, hiding any raw edges.
Position and sew the layers of ribbon together with a simple gathering stitch using a needle and thread. Wrap the thread around the center securely to hold your bow in place.
Adding Finishing Touches to Your Artesprix Sublimation Bow
For a clean finish, wrap a thin strip of faux leather around the center, securing it with a glue gun. Embellish your bow with decorative charms, gems, or bling. I used some pieces from Totally Dazzled. Choose a design that reflects your style and glue it firmly to the bow’s center.
Step-By-Step
Sublimating the Ribbon
1. Cut an 8-inch piece of sublimation ribbon and a 6 ½-inch piece
2. Cut strips of Infusible Ink Sheets a little larger than each ribbon piece
3. Use a lint roller to remove lint from the ribbon
4. Use heat tape to secure the ribbon to the printed side of the Infusible Ink Sheets
5. Layer your project in this order to make a sublimation sandwich before pressing:
- Protective paper
- Ribbon
- Infusible Ink Sheet (Should be face down onto the ribbon)
- Another sheet of protective paper
6. Place your sublimation sandwich on your heat press with the Infusible Ink Sheet closest to the heat plate
7. Press at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 90 second
8. Carefully remove from heat press and remove tape and ink sheet from ribbon
Making the Bow
1. Fold each piece of ribbon in half WIDTHWISE (hamburger fold style)
2. Add a strip of thin double-sided tape on each fold (wrong side of ribbon)
3. Fold each end of the ribbons to the middle so the raw edges match in the middle
4. Layer the smaller ribbon on top of the larger one. Be sure the taped edges are both facing down
5. Use the needle and thread to make a long gathering stitch through the middle where you taped
6. Pull up the gathers and then wrap the excess thread around the center to secure the bow.
7. Tie a knot through the back of the bow
8. Cut a small piece of matching faux leather or thinner ribbon (about ¼” – ½” wide)
9. Start at the back and use your glue gun or fabric glue to glue the faux leather strip around the center of your bow.
10. Add an embellishment to the center of the bow string on the front
11. Use glue to add a hair clip to the back and let it dry.
You’re done!
Share Your Artesprix Sublimation Bows With Me
Creating Artesprix Sublimation Ribbon Bows uses simple materials and techniques to make stunning, personalized accessories. Whether they’re for personal use or as gifts, these bows are a testament to your artistic flair.
If you create any bows using this technique, I’d love to see what you make. Share your creations online and tag me. You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Pinterest. I am EJsFunCrafting everywhere.
You can also explore another way of creating this sublimation bow on the Artesprix website.
Now go make something cute!
