Much better tute here.

Updated 8/22/06
I wanted to bundle up the tea bags for my tea swap via (Swap-bot) in a cute way.

At first, I was just going to tie ribbon around them, and was trying to think of a way to incorporate a button into the bundle (since I have TONS of them now). I remembered a simple napkin ring suggestion in - I think - a Martha Stewart Living magazine, with sheer ribbon and pony beads (or some such combo) and started messing around. This is the result.

How-to: Grosgrain or woven ribbon that is 1/4" to 3/8" seems to work the best. The rust ribbon pictured is 3/8". Wider ribbon can work, depending on the button, but so far has been more of a pain than a satisfied result. Plan on the ribbon shredding a little, regardless. Pick buttons with large holes. You need to get the ribbon through, but not too loose.

I cut the ribbon ends at an angle to give it a point, pulled them through partway, and then stuck the tea in the loop. After I pulled the ribbon tight, I tied a knot (not necessary if the ribbon fits tight enough or the bundle isn't being mailed, it depends on the look you want (I like the knot)) and trimmed off the frayed edges as the last step (it will probably get frayed).

If you are preparing some ties in advance, you don't have to cut the ribbon. Just put the cut end down through the front of the button, and then back up from the back. You can adjust the length, then cut when ready.

Tip: Don't use pricey or too-cool vintage buttons, as they might get tossed like any other wrapping! These buttons are "vintage" but plain and simple. ETA: I guess that would depend on the recipient. If the person would "get" that the button was part of the present, then use whatever you want. (Use whatever you want anyway. I'm bossy, but not THAT bossy.)

Close-ups (should be able to click on photo for larger view):


About the swap: We're to send 2 bundles of 5 tea bags to each partner. One of the teas is supposed to be different from the ordinary, something you don't think your partner(s) would have tried. I decided to take this opportunity to try completely new teas (since I'd have 10-15 bags left from each box). The peppermint tea isn't herbal, so I don't know if it would help w/ an upset tummy or not. It just sounded good, as did the Black Cherry. If someone else wants to trade with me, I'd be happy to package up another set. Just let me know!


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Copyright 2006-2008 Melissa Shaw
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