How to Make a Bow Tie

A bow tie is classic for men's formal wear. When a man wears a tuxedo, he will likely accessorize with a traditional bow tie. But bow ties do not have to be saved only for a tuxedo. An everyday suit can be spiced up with a colorful bow tie.

Here are simple instructions for making a traditional bow tie. Have fun and make a brightly colored one that will make a bold statement! Have even more fun learning how to tie a traditional bow tie, too. This is a skill that may prove useful.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 1 yard print fabric Sewing Machine Sewing Notions (scissors, thread, pins, etc.) Fusible interfacing Press cloth Iron

1. Lay out the fabric with the wrong side facing up. Cut a piece of fabric that measures twice as wide and 1 inch longer than the finished bow tie you desire. Add 1/2 inch to the width measurement.

2. Cut a piece of interfacing that is the same size as the fabric piece. Press the interfacing piece to the wrong side of the fabric piece. Use a press cloth between the iron and the fabric to protect the fabric from the heat.

3. Fold both short ends under 1/2 inch. Press to set the fold.

4. Fold the fabric piece in half lengthwise with right sides facing each other. Press the folded fabric. Sew the raw edges together with a 3/8-inch seam allowance.

5. Turn the fabric tube to right side out.

6. Arrange the seam of the fabric tube to run down the middle of the tube. Press the fabric flat and smooth.

7. Tuck in the corners of one of the short ends of the tie to make a pointed edge. Press this point well. Create the same kind of point on the other short end of the tie.

8. Tack each pointed end with the sewing machine to secure.

9. See the resource link for instructions for tying a bow tie.

Resources

• How to Tie a Bow Tie