How to Tie Western Bow Ties

Tying a regular necktie can be difficult at first, but after a little practice, you will be able do it with your eyes closed. Tying western bow ties works pretty much the same way, although you might find this style even easier because tying a western bow tie is almost exactly like tying shoelaces. To sport the tie style popularized by the iconic Colonel Sanders, just follow these steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Flat western string tie

1. Put a flat Western string tie around your neck and slide it under the collar of your shirt. Adjust it so that both ends are of equal length.

2. Cross one end over the other, pulling them snugly against your neck. Think of the end that is laying on top of the other as the "lead end."

3. Feed the lead end underneath the loop around your neck and pull it until it is snug, just like you would begin tying a shoelace.

4. Take the lead end and lay it over the front of the other end, which should be hanging down toward the floor.

5. Bring the lead end behind the back of the other end, creating a small loop between the two ends.

6. Push the lead end through the loop created in the previous step.

7. Grab both ends, one with each hand, and pull them in opposite directions to cinch up the tie to your neck. Make a knot that is snug but comfortable, and try your best to pull the ends so that each end is of equal length.

8. Smooth out the center knot if it is bunched up.

Tips & Warnings

• Since western bow ties are popular with wild west-style costumes, clip-on or elastic versions may be easy to find at costume or novelty shops.