How to Tie a Bow on a Paper

Presentation can be as meaningful as the gift itself.

Gift giving is an integral part of many occasions, and often, presentation is everything. So embellish a paper-wrapped gift box with the perfect bow. Few materials and little practice can make the art of gift giving a beautiful, unique craft.

Things You'll Need

• Paper being wrapped
• Ribbon
• Scissors
• Extra embellishments (optional)

Instructions

1. 

   Gather all materials to wrap the perfect ribbon on a gift.

   Wrap the ribbon around the package twice, ensuring that there will be enough length available to tie the bow. Pull the ribbon tight around the box, with both edges of ribbon extending upwards to the individual tying the bow.

2. 

   A woman practices tying a ribbon to a package.

   Create a loop to begin. Keep the ribbon tight around the package while tying the bow in the same manner that one would tie their shoe laces. Pull the looped bow from both sides to ensure that both edges are even.

3. 

   Friends work to cut the excess ribbon from the tied bow.

   Cut the extra amount of ribbon evenly to create the perfect bow. If cutting a satin or grosgrain ribbon, cut inwards from both sides at an angle making a half diamond shape. Cutting the ribbon this way will prevent the ends from fraying.

4. 

   A gift wrapped with curling ribbon.

   Add extra embellishments to the bow. If the bow was made with curling ribbon, consider curling the ends of the ribbon by pulling scissors along the extended pieces.

5. 

   French ribbon provides structure to make an elegant bow.

   Use French ribbon, ribbon with wire edges, to create a structured bow. The wire within the ribbon allows the individual to form the ribbon into a near-perfect bow. Wired ribbon comes in many styles, sizes and colors and can be found at any craft store.

6. 

   Gift giving will be more memorable with great presentation.

   Decorate the tied bow and paper with other embellishments, including flowers, curled ribbons, sprinklings of glitter or sprigs of herbs.

References

• How to Tie The Perfect Bow