How to Make Dog Topknot Bows
The toy breeds of dogs, such as the Maltese, Yorkshire terrier and Shih Tzu, often sport stylish bows in their topknots. These bows are available for purchase already tied from your groomer or pet supply store, but if you want to decorate your dog's topknot with a special ribbon or custom look, you need to learn to tie topknot bows. Once you tie the bow, you can decorate it further by sewing or gluing beads, sequins or studs to the center of the bow.
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Instructions
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Cut the ribbon into a 4-inch length for small dogs or 6-inch length for medium to large dogs.
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Fold the ribbon in half and cross the ends so that you have a large loop at the top half of the ribbon and two tails at the bottom half.
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Press the center of the loop down to the point at which the ribbons cross below. This will give you the classic bow shape.
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Lay one latex band across the center of the bow.
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Pull the top and bottom of the latex band over and under the center of the bow. Open the top part of the latex band and slip the bottom part through. Pull the bottom part, now at the top, taut.
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Add a drop of glue to hold the latex band on place at the front of the bow. Alternatively, you can sew one or two stitches around the band to hold it to the ribbon. Add accessories such as beads or studs to the center of the bow.
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Form your dog's topknot and secure it with a latex band. Slip the band from your topknot bow in place.
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Tips & Warnings
Solid colored ribbons are classic for topknot bows, but you can also try holiday prints, metallic bows and animal prints for a stylish look.
For added stiffness to the bow, you can purchase material stiffening spray at your local fabric or craft store. Be sure the spray has dried completely before attaching the bow to the topknot.
Do not use regular rubber bands to secure the bow as these can tear your dog's hair. Latex bands slide smoothly over hairs.
References
- Photo Credit Funny doggie image by Alina Chiannie from Fotolia.com
