Directions for How to Tie Gift Bows

Jazz up a gift box with a bow.

Wrapping a gift with a bow is an easy way to dress up a plain package. Whether a gift box is wrapped or not, a bow will give it a finishing touch. To create a cohesive look, make the bow out of ribbon, yarn or another material that coordinates with the wrapping paper or tissue paper. Even if the gift inside the box is inexpensive, a bow will give the package a charming, boutique-quality touch.

Things You'll Need

• Gift box
• Ribbon
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Choose a type of wide ribbon to use to make the gift bow. Pick grosgrain ribbon for a casual look or satin ribbon to create an elegant style. Wrap the ribbon, still attached to the spool, around the box twice lengthwise to ensure it is long enough. Cut the piece of ribbon with craft scissors.

2. Set the gift box on a flat surface. Lay the ribbon across the middle of the box lengthwise.

3. Turn the box over and continue wrapping the ribbon around it until the two ends meet in the center.

4. Fold the right end of the ribbon over the left and wrap the two ends around the box widthwise. Flip the box over again and allow the two ribbon ends to meet at the top middle of the box.

5. Tie the ribbon into a knot on top of the box. Snip off the excess ends.

6. Slip a piece of ribbon under the knot on the top of the box. Adjust the ribbon so you have two equal lengths. Tie the lengths into a center knot to secure the ribbon into place on top of the box.

7. Form the left side of the ribbon into a loop using your thumb, forefinger and middle finger. Wrap the left side of the ribbon around the loop, bringing it up through the loop created by your forefinger and middle finger, to form a second loop. Pull the two loops to tighten and form a bow.

References

• Oprah: Step-By-Step Bow Tying Guide