How to Make a Bow: A Step-By-Step Guide
Key Takeaways
- For a basic bow, start with 15 to 20 inches of ribbon that is about 1 inch wide, adjusting the length when using wider ribbon or making a larger bow.
- Create two bunny-ear loops, keep the decorative side facing up, and adjust the loops before tying them together so the finished bow looks balanced.
- Pull the loops into a snug knot, shape the loops and tails, and trim the ends only after you are happy with the bow’s final appearance.
To make a simple bow with ribbon, cut the ribbon to size, form two bunny-ear loops, tie them together, adjust the shape, and trim the tails. The eight steps below walk you through the process from start to finish.
Burlap and Bling Decor also posts helpful tutorials showing many different ways to make bows. Follow Burlap and Bling Decor on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to stay up to date with new ideas and inspiration.
We also offer a comprehensive Build a Bow tutorial video for just $15. You can sit back and watch our founder, Jen, guide you through the steps associated with making a bow, and finally learn how to do it once and for all.
Additionally, you can use a bow maker or other crafting tools to simplify the process. Learning how to use a bow maker is relatively easy and can help minimize the learning curve when you begin creating bows.
Before doing any of these things, though, we recommend familiarizing yourself with the basics. You need to know how to make a simple bow so that you can eventually work your way up to making more advanced options! Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
Step 1: Begin by Purchasing Ribbon
To learn how to make a bow, you will need to get your hands on ribbon. Fortunately, Burlap and Bling Decor has a wide selection of ribbon in stock. Whether you want to build a bow with basic red ribbon, patterned ribbon, or holiday-themed ribbon, we have you covered. You can even find ribbon in many different widths, from under an inch wide to several inches wide, when you shop with Burlap and Bling Decor.
Step 2: Measure the Ribbon and Cut It to the Correct Length
Once you have your ribbon picked out, you can dive headfirst into using it to learn how to make a bow. Pull out a ruler and a pair of scissors so that you can cut a piece of ribbon that is the right size.
For this guide, we will use ribbon that is 1 inch wide. In this case, you will want to cut it so that it’s between 15 and 20 inches long. Consider adjusting this length if you use ribbon with a different width.
Step 3: Use the Ribbon to Create Your First Loop
After cutting your ribbon to the correct length, it will be time to create the first loop for your bow. Start by making a bunny-eared loop, then twist the longer end of your ribbon. Keep the shinier side of your ribbon facing up.
Step 4: Create Your Second Loop and Adjust Both Loops If Necessary
With your first loop in place, it's time to focus on creating the second one. Make another bunny-eared loop while keeping the first one intact. Don’t rush, since this is the part of the process where your bow could begin to fall apart if you’re not careful. Remember that slow and steady wins the race!
When you reach this step, the two loops for your bow might be too large or too small. If so, feel free to adjust them so they’re the size you want them to be when your bow is complete.
Step 5: Bring the First and Second Loops Together
Take the first loop and fold it over the top of your second loop. Then, bring it behind and stick it through the hole in the center. If you feel a little like you’re tying a shoe when you do this, you will know you’re on the right path.
Step 6: Pull the Two Loops to Make a Tight Knot
It’s time for the moment of truth! Hold each of your loops and slowly pull on them to create a knot and tighten it. At this point, you should be starting to think, “Hey, I know how to make a beautiful bow!”
Step 7: Tinker With the Loops to Make Your Bow Look Just Right
Even if you’ve nailed the bow-making process, you might notice that the bow you have created doesn’t quite look like you imagined it would. No worries! You still have time to tinker with its loops and tails to improve the appearance.
And if you aren’t satisfied with your bow after doing this? Now would be a good time to restart the process and pinpoint where you went wrong. Practice makes perfect, and you may just need to go back to the beginning to fine-tune your approach to bow making.
Step 8: Trim the Ends of Your Bow
If you’ve taken the proper steps, you should be left with a lovely bow. It may, however, have tails that are too long. Trim their ends to your desired length to put the finishing touches on your bow.
Let Burlap and Bling Decor Help You Build a Bow
Once you know how to make a bow, it will become second nature. But while you’re still getting the hang of it, you might grow frustrated. This is where the Burlap and Bling Decor team can step in and help.
From providing high-quality ribbon to offering our Build a Bow tutorial video, we can assist you in perfecting your bow-making skills. We can even educate you on how to use a bow maker if you decide to go in that direction.
Shop now for the ribbon and crafting supplies you need to build a bow, and follow Burlap and Bling Decor on Instagram for more tips, tutorials, and creative inspiration!
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