Gwen Studios – Try It – Like It

No-Sew No-Glue Binding

No sewing, no glue, no ruler—just ribbon and scraps to create an adorable handmade notebook in minutes!

Make a Cute No-Sew, No-Glue Notepad with Ribbon

Looking for a quick and creative way to use up your craft stash? This adorable notepad project uses no sewing, no glue, and not even a ruler—just some beautiful ribbon from Gwen Studios and a few basic supplies you already have on hand.

This is a perfect stash-buster craft that comes together fast, making it ideal for last-minute gifts, craft fairs, or a relaxing creative break. Simply stack your paper, punch holes, and tie a bow for an easy, decorative binding that looks charming and polished.

These little notebooks are wonderfully versatile. Use one for your grocery list, tuck it into a junk journal, or gift it to a fellow paper-crafting friend. However you choose to use it, you’ll love how simple, stylish, and satisfying this project is to make.

Quick, easy, and full of creative potential—this is one notepad you’ll want to make again and again!

I started with a leftover piece of scrapbooking paper and simply folded it in half, which instantly made me think it would be the perfect cover for a small notepad. From there, I trimmed some regular copy paper to fit for the inside pages and added a scrap of cardstock for a little topper. That’s really all you need for this project—aside from the ribbon for binding, of course. I chose to use heart-shaped eyelets for a decorative touch, but they’re completely optional and not required to make this notepad work beautifully.

The links provided are for your use and may contain affiliate links.
They cost nothing for you to use.
Thank you in advance for supporting this site with its use.

This project was created for Gwen Studios. You can find all the design team projects listed on the Designer Crafts Connection website. Gwen Studios products can be found at Walmart and Michaels.

Video Tutorial:

Suggested Materials:

Links are Affiliates AZ – Amazon, SSS – Simon Says Stamps, SB – Scrapbook, O – Other

Cricut Portable Trimmer Shop at: AZ \| C	Crop a dile Shop at: AZ	Cut Cardstock Shop at: O	Glassboard Shop at: AZ \| O
Gwen Studios at Walmart Shop at: O	Non-Stick Scissors Shop at: AZ	ribbons Shop at: O

Button Wreath Ornament

What a fun way to use colored buttons from Gwen Studios to make a Christmas Wreath Ornament.

This month’s Gwen Studios Project, I am sharing how to make a button wreath ornament using green and red buttons and green grosgrain ribbon.

The links provided are for your use and may contain affiliate links.
They cost nothing for you to use.
Thank you in advance for supporting this site with its use.

This project was created for Gwen Studios. You can find all the design team projects listed on the Designer Crafts Connection website. Gwen Studios products can be found at Walmart and Michaels.

The buttons and ribbon I used from Gwen Studios.

I created a base for the wreath out of cardboard packaging. I painted both sides with green paint.

After choosing the appropriate buttons for the wreath, I attached them with hot glue.

Video Tutorial:

Suggested Materials:

Links are Affiliates AZ – Amazon, SSS – Simon Says Stamps, SB – Scrapbook, O – Other

Adtech Glue Gun Shop at: AZ	Dynasty Brushes Shop at: AZ	Glassboard Shop at: AZ \| O	Gwen Studios at Walmart Shop at: O	Non-Stick Scissors Shop at: AZ
Nylon Cord Shop at: AZ	Ranger Heat Tool Shop at: AZ

DIY Painted Button Bracelet

DIY painted buttons and macrame bracelet tutorial.

For this bracelet, I started by painting the back side of buttons from Gwen Studios to give each one a unique look. As I worked the macrame knots, I added a button every few knots to create a beautiful repeating pattern — even though each button features its own individual painted design. The result is a one-of-a-kind bracelet with color, texture, and handmade charm.

The links provided are for your use and may contain affiliate links.
They cost nothing for you to use.
Thank you in advance for supporting this site with its use.

This project was created for Gwen Studios. You can find all the design team projects listed on the Designer Crafts Connection website. Gwen Studios products can be found at Walmart and Michaels.

The buttons from Gwen Studios were so easy to paint using Sharpie paint pens. I selected four coordinating colors to keep the look cohesive while still allowing room for creativity. Each button features its own unique hand-drawn design, making every piece of the bracelet a little work of art. The mix of patterns and colors adds personality and charm to the finished project.

Here’s a look at the different designs painted on each button. Every one is unique — from simple line patterns to playful dots — yet they all coordinate beautifully through the shared color palette. Together, they create a cohesive but creative look for the macrame bracelet.

Video Tutorial:

Here’s a look at the closure made from the macrame cord — a simple wrapped loop and knot design. This style of closure not only looks clean and handcrafted but also makes it easy to take the bracelet on and off. It’s a secure finish that perfectly complements the casual, handmade charm of the piece.

And here’s one final look at the bracelet being worn — the painted buttons and macrame knots come together beautifully to create a piece that’s both artistic and wearable. It’s a fun, creative project that shows off your personal style every time you wear it!

Suggested Materials:

Links are Affiliates
AZ – Amazon, SSS – Simon Says Stamps, SB – Scrapbook, O – Other

Crystalac Shop at: AZ	Duck Tape Shop at: AZ	Glassboard Shop at: AZ \| O	Glue Bottles Shop at: AZ	Gwen Studios at Walmart Shop at: O
Jewelry Tool Kit Shop at: AZ	Reptile Glue Shop at: AZ	Sharpie Acrylic Markers Shop at: AZ

Floral Pumpkin Decor

Transform simple items from Dollar Tree and ribbons from Gwen Studios into a lovely fall decor.

This project transforms a simple pumpkin base from Dollar Tree into a stunning seasonal centerpiece. By combining affordable florals with quality ribbons from Gwen Studios, you can create a piece that feels custom and high-end without the high price tag.

Start by painting the pumpkin with a white wash and then arranging faux flowers, greenery, or stems around the top of the pumpkin. The ribbons from Gwen Studios add texture and pattern amongst the flowers.

The result is a versatile autumn decor piece: perfect as a table centerpiece, mantle accent, or even porch display. Best of all, it’s budget-friendly, fun to make, and completely customizable to your color scheme.

The links provided are for your use and may contain affiliate links.
They cost nothing for you to use.
Thank you in advance for supporting this site with its use.

This project was created for Gwen Studios. You can find all the design team projects listed on the Designer Crafts Connection website. Gwen Studios products can be found at Walmart and Michaels.

The styrofoam pumpkin from Dollar Tree comes in a very bright orange, which can feel a little overwhelming for floral decor. To soften the look, I gave it a whitewash effect using Deco Earth paint from DecoArt. This toned down the orange, and created a more natural base that blends beautifully with fall florals and ribbons.

To enhance the floral arrangement, I used Gwen Studios grosgrain ribbon in both solid orange and playful orange polka dots. The ribbons add layers a pop of pattern that ties the whole design together.

For attaching them, I made my own metal picks by unfolding paper clips — a simple and affordable alternative to store-bought floral picks. This little hack kept the project budget-friendly while still giving me the flexibility to position the ribbons exactly where I wanted them.

Video Tutorial:

The image above shows a close-up of the finished pumpkin decor, highlighting how the whitewashed pumpkin peeks through beneath the floral arrangement. The softened base creates the perfect contrast against the vibrant flowers and Gwen Studios ribbons.

Suggested Materials:

Links are Affiliates
AZ – Amazon, SSS – Simon Says Stamps, SB – Scrapbook, O – Other

DecoEarth Shop at: AZ	Dollar Tree Shop at: O	Glassboard Shop at: AZ \| O	Gwen Studios at Walmart Shop at: O	Jewelry Tool Kit Shop at: AZ
Paper Clips Shop at: AZ

DIY Ribbon Bookmark That Blooms Like a Flower

This altered paperclip bookmark is perfect for junk journals! Made with satin ribbon from Gwen Studios for a sweet flower bud accent.

This ribbon bookmark is actually an altered paperclip that doubles as both a bookmark and a paper clip—perfect for junk journals! I used satin ribbon from Gwen Studios to create a pretty flower bud as the focal point.

The links provided are for your use and may contain affiliate links.
They cost nothing for you to use.
Thank you in advance for supporting this site with its use.

This project was created for Gwen Studios. You can find all the design team projects listed on the Designer Crafts Connection website. Gwen Studios products can be found at Walmart and Michaels.

The materials I used are:

needle and thread
gel super glue
white glue
card stock
washi tape
Gwen Studios Satin Ribbon
paper clip
sewing clip

Video Tutorial:

The ribbon bud and bow peek out from the top of your book or journal, while the paperclip keeps your place marked in style.

Mixed Media Buttons

Mixed media and buttons for creative results.

I had so much fun experimenting with a variety of techniques to alter buttons from Gwen Studios! From paint and ink to layering and embellishment, each design took on a new life.

These transformed pieces can be used as functional buttons or repurposed as ephemera for tags, journals, cards, and more. A little creativity goes a long way!

The links provided are for your use and may contain affiliate links.
They cost nothing for you to use.
Thank you in advance for supporting this site with its use.

This project was created for Gwen Studios. You can find all the design team projects listed on the Designer Crafts Connection website. Gwen Studios products can be found at Walmart and Michaels.

I started with a decoupage technique using Mod Podge, napkins, and tissue paper—a fun and textured way to give the buttons a new look. But I couldn’t stop there! I went on to experiment with patterned paper, paint, and alcohol inks, each bringing its own unique flair. I even gave nail polish a try, though the results weren’t quite what I hoped for—so that technique will have to wait for another creative session!

Video Tutorial:

I truly enjoyed exploring all of these techniques—it was such a fun and creative process! I’m sure this is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to continue experimenting and finding new ways to use these altered buttons in my future crafting adventures.

I’d love to hear from you—which technique is your favorite? Drop a comment below and let’s keep the creative conversation going!

Ribbon and Button Ephemera

Let’s make ephemera with ribbon and buttons from Gwen Studios.

with Gwen Studios

This charming patriotic colored ephemera piece, crafted with an assortment of ribbons and a decorative button from Gwen Studios, is a versatile addition to any creative project. Whether you’re embellishing a junk journal, adding texture to a scrapbook layout, creating a handmade greeting card, or designing a unique key ring or bag charm, this layered element brings a touch of handmade flair and tactile interest. The combination of coordinating ribbons and the carefully selected button creates a visually appealing accent that can easily be adapted to suit seasonal themes, color palettes, or personal styles. It’s a simple yet impactful way to elevate your paper crafting and mixed media creations.

The links provided are for your use and may contain affiliate links.
They cost nothing for you to use.
Thank you in advance for supporting this site with its use.

This project was created for Gwen Studios. You can find all the design team projects listed on the Designer Crafts Connection website. Gwen Studios products can be found at Walmart and Michaels.

Video Tutorial:

In image above you can see the detail of the button I chose and the hardware used. I would love to hear how you would use one of these ribbon and button pieces.

Let’s Make Button Flower Ephemera

A fun project to make ephemera for your stash with Gwen Studio buttons.

This month I am adding to my stash with these paper flower and button ephemera. They were fun to make and will come in very useful with my crafting.

The links provided are for your use and may contain affiliate links.
They cost nothing for you to use.
Thank you in advance for supporting this site with its use.

This project was created for Gwen Studios. You can find all the design team projects listed on the Designer Crafts Connection website. Gwen Studios products can be found at Walmart and Michaels.

Video Tutorial:

Materials:

Links are Affiliates
AZ – Amazon, SSS – Simon Says Stamps, SB – Scrapbook, O – Other

1/2″ Paper Punch Shop at: AZ	Beading Needles Shop at: AZ	Carta Bella Shop at: AZ	Glassboard Shop at: AZ \| O
Gwen Studios at Walmart Shop at: O	Mini Maker Shop at: O	Nuvo Glue Pen Shop at: AZ	Pearl Cotton Shop at: AZ

Button Earrings

Learn to make button earrings with Gwen Studios.

This month, I’m creating a fun pair of earrings using buttons from Gwen Studios! With just a bit of stitching and a few added beads, these come together beautifully and can be customized in a wide variety of colors to match any outfit or style. It’s a simple yet creative way to turn everyday materials into unique, wearable art pieces.

The links provided are for your use and may contain affiliate links.
They cost nothing for you to use.
Thank you in advance for supporting this site with its use.

This project was created for Gwen Studios. You can find all the design team projects listed on the Designer Crafts Connection website. Gwen Studios products can be found at Walmart and Michaels.

Materials:

2 buttons
cotton thread
beading needle
scissors
permanent adhesive
16 beads
2 silver beads
2 ear wires
coordinating felt

Video Tutorial:

Here is a view of the front and back of the earrings. Lightweight, colorful, and full of personality, these earrings are a fun and stylish project.

Suggested Materials:

Links are Affiliates
AZ – Amazon, SSS – Simon Says Stamps, SB – Scrapbook, O – Other

Beading Needles Shop at: AZ	e-6000 Shop at: AZ \| SSS	Embroidery Thread Shop at: AZ	Glassboard Shop at: AZ \| O
Gwen Studios at Walmart Shop at: O	Scrapbook Scissors Shop at: SB

Button Flower Decor

Learn to make flowers with buttons and wire.

I created button flowers using a bag of spring-colored buttons from Gwen Studios. To complete the project, I used a glass bottle as a vase, along with aluminum wire and flat nose pliers. This is a wonderful craft for spring décor, a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift, or a special handmade surprise for someone you love.

The links provided are for your use and may contain affiliate links.
They cost nothing for you to use.
Thank you in advance for supporting this site with its use.

This project was created for Gwen Studios. You can find all the design team projects listed on the Designer Crafts Connection website. Gwen Studios products can be found at Walmart and Michaels.

I cut 9 lengths of wire to 12″ long.

I paired together different colors of buttons to create the flowers. These can be stacks of 2 or 3 buttons.

Video Tutorial:

Once done with the flowers, I added a teal colored gross grain ribbon from Gwen Studios to the vase.

Here’s the finished project! I love how the button colors complement each other and tie in beautifully with the ribbon.