How-Tuesday: Dressed Up Sweets

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Story by Julie Schneider

Published on Feb 08, 2011 in Make

In a Valentine’s Day world whirling with pink, hearts and frilliness, Stephanie Hung from Martha Stewart’s Crafts Department offers some respite with ideas for dressing up sweet treats for your sweetheart in smart and stylish menswear-inspired packaging. Even if you’re short on time or crafting confidence, the tips in this week’s How-Tuesday will coach you along to make a handmade treat perfect for wooing.

In the February issue of Martha Stewart’s Living, we show you how to shower your loved ones with attention and confection. One simple idea is dressing up store bought candy. For a more masculine look, try wrapping with menswear details, like this elegantly crafted paper tuxedo. Read on for tips and inspiration for creating a Valentine’s Day present with handmade flair.

Materials:

  • Cardstock
  • Bone folder
  • Ruler
  • Candy
  • Waxed thread or glue
  • Buttons
  • Ribbon

1.  Pleats: Starting with a 1” center, use a bone folder and ruler to score lines on the cardstock at 1/4” and 1/2” alternately. Accordion fold the paper to create a tuxedo belly band.

2.  Sleeve cuff: Cut a piece of cardstock 1” longer than your bottle. Draw buttonhole lines, and cut a rounded corner. Use waxed twine or glue to “sew” buttons to cuff.

3.  Shirtfront: Thread buttons onto waxed twine and wrap around box.

4.  Bowtie: Give ribbon the dapper look with a fashionable treatment.

If you are leaning towards a more traditional look, try using floral patterns in pretty colors:

For a completely handmade gift you can even make the treats that go inside, or snag some handmade candy on Etsy. We have lots of sweet recipes to choose from, like these creamy fudge hearts.

Happy Valentine’s Day to you from The Crafts Department!

Thank you to Martha Stewart for sharing this project with us. For more projects, inspiration, and craft advice, check out The Crafts Dept.

Make Felt Sweets | More How-Tuesday Posts | Candy on Etsy

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