DIY Ribbon Flag Banner for the Fourth of July

A charming, scrappy way to use what you’ve got—and make it festive.

Let’s be honest—most of us are sitting on a stash of ribbon “too pretty to use.” Well, this is your sign: use it. I took a couple of gifted boxes of ribbon and turned them into a playful, patriotic banner that feels one part farmhouse, one part festive, and totally unique.

Here’s how to make your own DIY ribbon flag banner, no stress or perfection required:

✂️ What You’ll Need:

• A mix of red, white, blue (or coordinating) ribbon or fabric strips
• A larger back piece of fabric or canvas for each flag (mine are about 7–9″ long)
• A square of blue fabric or felt for the “stars” section
• Gold ribbon or trim for a little sparkle
• Twine or string for hanging

🧵 Step-by-Step Instructions:

01. choose your ribbons:

Select the strips you’ll use to make the stripes and the blue section. I like using an odd number of flags—5 or 7 usually gives the right balance.

02. Cut Your Back Piece:

This will be the base of each flag. Cut it to your desired flag length, leaving an extra inch or two at the top for folding over and making a pocket to string it later.

03. Create the Pocket:

Fold over the top edge of your back piece to create a small pocket for the twine. Pin it in place. You’ll stitch it at the end.

04. Add Your Stripes:

Cut your ribbon pieces slightly longer than your back piece. Fold the top of each ribbon under so there’s no raw edge, then pin them vertically onto the back piece.

05: Add the “Star Field”:

Cut a small square of blue material and pin it at the top left over the ribbons to mimic the stars section of the flag.

06. Add a Sparkly Top Trim:

I added a strip of gold ribbon across the top of the flag—because why not? It’s festive and gives it that little extra.

07. Stitch It All Together:

Stitch everything down securely—your stripes, the star square, the gold trim, and the folded-over pocket at the top.

08. Trim and Tidy:

Once stitched, trim the ends of your ribbon so they’re clean and even (or a little jagged and playful—your call).

09. String Them Together:

Slide twine through the top pocket of each flag and space them out evenly to complete your banner!

For instructions on how to make the stands from which the banner is hanging, check out this blogpost! Happy creating!

💡 Tips & Variations:

Don’t stress about straight lines—charm beats perfection.

Try denim scraps, old tea towels, or ticking stripe fabric for a vintage look.

Use what you have—this project is the definition of scrappy pretty.