How to Make Holiday Bows & Decorations

Large or small holiday bows are made by the same procedure. Once you have learned how to make them, you can use any type or size ribbon to get the effect you want. Large bows can be used to decorate Christmas trees or outside wreaths. Extra-large bows can be created and attached to church pews for wedding decor. Smaller bows can be used for floral arrangements, table centerpieces and gift decorations. Do not give up if you feel "all thumbs" at first. With practice, the process will become easier.

Things You'll Need

• 3/4-inch satin ribbon
• Medium-gauge wire
• Wire cutter (optional)

Instructions

1. Cut a 1-foot length of 3/4-inch floral satin ribbon. This type of ribbon is the easiest to learn with. Medium-gauge wire can be purchased in packages of 1-foot lengths. This size is handy for tying holiday bows.

2. Make a small loop at one end of the ribbon, with the cut end on top. Hold the two pieces together with your thumb and index finger, with an inch of the end of the ribbon at the top left on the inside.

3. Make a loop going in the opposite direction. You will be working on the underside of the bow from now on. Add the inside of the loop to your two fingers to hold on to. Twist the ribbon a full turn before making the next loop. The twisting will give the bow's form extra body.

4. Make the next loop in the same direction as the first loop, only a bit larger. Hold the loop with the same two fingers, and twist the ribbon a full turn. Continue going back and forth, twisting each time the ribbon comes back to the middle of the bow, and making each loop a bit larger than the previous one, until it is the size you prefer.

5. Bend the wire in half. Place the bend of the wire over the top center of the bow. Pull it tight, and twist the wire several times on the underside. Clip the wire to the length you need for your holiday bow or decoration.

Tips & Warnings

• Holiday bows can be made with tulle or a combination of ribbons and tulle. Add trinkets, candy canes, jingle bells, silk flowers and other add-ons to create a unique decoration.

Resources

• Afloral.com