How to Make a Christmas Tree Topper Bow

Ribbons and bows are traditional tree toppers.

Bows make great Christmas tree toppers because they invoke the spirit of giving. The custom of decorating Christmas trees dates back to 1600s Germany. The first Christmas trees were decorated with handmade ornaments, candles and sweets. Christmas tree topper bows were made of ribbon. Ribbons adorn everything from clothing to trees since 1700s France. Wire-edge or velvet ribbon produces the best tree topper bows and is available in many colors and patterns. If the bow is for outside display, select ribbon made specifically for outdoors. Create your Christmas tree topper bow by following these simple, yet easy instructions.

Things You'll Need

• Ribbon
• Scissors
• Floral Wire

Instructions

1. 

   Cut 4 yards of ribbon.

2. 

   Place the ribbon on flat surface and loop in zigzag pattern. Make three 18-inch loops and one 13-inch loop. Leave 4 inches for the tail and cut second tail even with first tail.

3. 

   Gather the ribbon in the center and pinch it tightly.

4. 

   Wrap wire around center and securely twist in back.

5. 

   Tug the tails downward and lay flat. Pull the small loop to the middle and fluff it with fingers.

6. 

   Gently shape and arrange large loops.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider the tree's size in proportion to bow when choosing ribbon widths. A tree 3 to 4-feet tall uses a 2 to 3-inch ribbon. A tree that is 5 to 6-feet tall looks better with 4-inch ribbon. If tree is 7 feet or taller, use 6 to 8-inch wide ribbons.

• Christmas tree topper bows look best with three to five large loops. If desired, create a bow with 10 to 12 loops to create a beautiful dense look.

• For an extra touch, snip the tails to create a finished decorative effect. Simply fold the bottom edges of each tail ribbon together and starting from the lower open corner, take scissors and make a single diagonal cut. Open fold and view triangle.

• Display Christmas tree topper bows in unique places like front porch columns, staircase banisters, automobiles and large door wreaths.

• Customize your bow with glitter or add extra streamers for a dramatic effect.

• Satin and lace ribbons do not hold shape as well as wire-edge and velvet ribbons.

• Use scissors carefully.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Ribbon History