How to Make a Bow Tie With a One-Sided Ribbon
While bow ties are normally associated with tuxedos and formal events, bow ties can also serve as fantastic hair accessories and embellishments. Many styles of ribbon come with a "right" side and a "wrong" side, making constructing beautiful bows slightly more challenging. Fortunately, with a few simple sewing materials and a short amount of time, you can construct an elegant bow tie with your one-sided ribbon.
Instructions
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1
Cut out a piece of ribbon measuring about 6 inches long. Cut out a second piece of ribbon measuring about 4 inches long. Lay the 4-inch piece to the side.
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2
Thread a needle with thread. Tie the two ends of the thread together once you have pushed the thread through the eye of the needle.
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3
Make a loop with the 6-inch piece of ribbon with the right side facing out and the two short ends overlapping by about 1/2 inch. Press the overlapping ends up toward the opposing side of the loop to create a figure-eight shape. The overlapping ends will be the back of the bow. Hold the layers together with your index finger and thumb.
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4
Push the thread and needle up through the center of the overlapped ends at the back and through the top of the loop, where your fingers are holding the layers in place. Wrap the thread around the collected ribbon about three times to create a gathered center with two voluminous ends. Push the needle through the back of the bow, where the two ends are, to stabilize the wrapping. Keep the thread connected.
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5
Wrap the 4-inch piece of ribbon around the gathered center of the bow tie with the right side facing out. Overlap the two ends of the 4-inch ribbon at the back of the bow. Tack the two ends in place with the thread and needle and a whip stitch. Tie a knot with the remaining thread and cut off the excess.
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Tips & Warnings
Satin ribbon creates a smooth, refined bow tie.
References
- Photo Credit NA/Photos.com/Getty Images
