How to Make Extra Large Bows

Large loopy bow.

Extra large bows accessorize oversized packages and gift items. Make your own extra large bows to fit the top of a car or the top of a large box. Select wide satin ribbon to make an extra large bow with fluffy loops. Ribbon is sold by the spool. It takes approximately 10 yards of ribbon to make a large 10-inch wide fluffy bow. To make extra large bows, purchase a 50-yard spool of satin ribbon.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• 2-1/4-inch wide satin ribbon, 50 yards (1 spool)
• Oversized paper clip
• Sharp scissors
• 22-gauge craft wire
• Wire cutters

Instructions

1. Measure the space where you plant to place the bow to determine the overall desired width of the loops in the center of the bow. From the tip of one center loop to the tip of the other is the widest part of the bow.

2. Unroll several yards of ribbon from the spool. Do not cut the ribbon. Make a loop at the beginning of the ribbon strip equal to half of the overall desired width of the bow. Hold the tip end of the ribbon flush against the ribbon at the base of the loop. Make another loop in the opposite direction that's the same size as the first loop. Keep the sides flush. Clip the ribbons together in the center between the two loops with an oversized paper clip.

3. Unroll several more yards of ribbon from the spool. It's easier to make extra large bows if you unroll the ribbon as you go. Make two more loops with the ribbon layered over the first two loops. Slide the ribbon in the center between the two loops into the paper clip.

4. Repeat the third step 14 more times. You will have a thick ribbon stack that is joined in the center with loops on either side of the paper clip.

5. Roll out 6 inches of ribbon beyond the center after making the last loop. Cut the ribbon from the spool.

6. Slide the paper clip out of the way of the center point, but do not allow the ribbons to come loose. Keep the edges flush. Cut a 1-inch wide inverted V on either side of the center of the ribbon stack. The cut should go all the way through the stack. The point of the V should be towards the center of the width of the ribbon.

7. Cut a 20-inch strand of 22-gauge craft wire. Twist the wire tightly around the center point of the inverted V.

8. Hold the ribbon stack upright with one of the loops facing up. Separate the layers of ribbon beginning with the inside layer first. Pull the inside loop to the side and then down. Pull each layer of ribbon successively from the inside out and down until one side of the extra large bow is complete.

9. Repeat Step 8 with the other ribbon loop. Fluff the extra large bow to the desired shape.

References

• Offray: Pompom Bows

Resources

• ABNC Parties: How to Make a Decorative Ribbon Bow