If you have a different size triangle in mind, make the template to fit that vision. You can make the template triangles as large or as small as you like. Maybe you want narrow triangles so the long points move freely in the wind, or maybe you want to alternate between small and large equilateral triangles to create depth.
If this is a permanent bunting for your room, play off some of the colors or textures that already exist within the room. Maybe purple and silver are prominent colors in your room. Incorporate different shades of those colors into the bunting, and add some silver glitter to make it pop. Bunting for a baby shower could be calming tones like a mix pastel blue, green, pink, and yellow. Alternate the color of the flags, and maybe even make some of the flags with white polka dots to add contrasting texture.
If you have a large piece of fabric, fold the fabric in half before pinning the template to it. This will allow you to save time by cutting 2 flags at once. The amount of the fabric you use can vary greatly depending on how large your template is and how many flags you want to make. Ideally, make your template first and decide approximately how many triangles you want to make before purchasing the fabric. Those measurements will help you determine how much fabric you will need. Choose a simple fabric like a cotton-polyester blend for making the bunting. Silks or other fancy blends may be difficult to sew. Using fabrics that have a print or color on both sides instead of just one side will also save you a lot of time while sewing.
Instead of pinking shears, use fabric scissors that have a straight edge or a rotary cutter. Keep the fabric taut, and cut it slowly to keep the edges from tearing or fraying. If you decide to use a rotary cutter, place a board underneath the fabric so you do not damage the surface you are working on. [7] X Research source
To do this, layer and pin 2 triangles together so that the pattern is facing inwards. Use a straight stitch to sew 2 of the triangle sides together. If you are not using an equilateral triangle, this would be the 2 longer sides. Accomplish this by using a sewing machine or a needle and a thread. Leave approximately a 1⁄5 in (0. 51 cm) seam around the flag. Remove the pins and then push the point of the flag through the unstitched side so that the pattern is right-side out. Press the flag down until it is smooth. Don’t worry about stitching the final side to the triangle, as it will be covered with bias binding tape. Repeat this process until all of your flags are completed.
If you can’t decide on a measurement, aim to have at least 5 in (13 cm) of space between each flag. [11] X Research source It is easier to arrange and adjust the spacing of the flags on the tape before you cut it. This way, you have the option to increase or decrease the spacing without worrying about the length of the tape. [12] X Research source If you had to stitch your flags, place the unsewn end of the flag along the tape. This will later hide and seal the open end of the flag. [13] X Research source
Consider spelling out someone’s name on the bunting, or display a simple message like, “Happy Birthday!” or “Welcome Home!”
To save yourself some time, make the size of your flag fit an existing paper size. For example, a standard piece of scrapbook paper that is 12 by 12 in (30 by 30 cm) will make 2 equilateral triangles that are 6 in (15 cm) around. Making your template for a 6 in (15 cm) triangle will eliminate a lot of tedious measuring later on. If you want to reuse your paper bunting for different events, use a thick paper like cardstock or scrapbook paper. Thicker paper won’t crease or tear as easily as printer or construction paper.
Repeat this process until you have traced a desired amount of flags.
In order to hang your bunting, leave about 16 in (41 cm) of excess string on each end before cutting it. [21] X Research source
Repeat this process until all of your flags are secured and sealed.
If you want a minimalistic look or if you chose a paper with a fun pattern and don’t want to cover it up, hang the bunting as is.
