Bow Making

Bow Making

To figure out approximately how much ribbon you will need, simply follow this general formula: Determine how long each loop will be. Multiply this length by 2 and then multiply this figure by the number of loops desired. This will give you the total number of inches needed for a bow without tails. Add the total inches required for your bow tails to the previous figure. Devide by 35 to determine the actual yardage.

Instructions

At one end of the ribbon form a loop and hold it with your thumb inside the loop and the fingers on the outside of the loop. Curl the ribbon  over to create the center loop and pinch it at the base. Twist the tail of ribbon where your fingers are pinched so that the front side of the fabric is facing up.

From that center loop, create a bigger loop on each side. Going back and forth while holding the center together.

Notice that most ribbon has a "right" side and "wrong" side.  The trick to making nice bows is to keep the "right" out where it can be seen and the "wrong" side hidden.

Form a loop, coming back to your fingers under the first loop, twist, form a loop on the opposite side.  Keep twisting and forming loops on opposite sides of the first loop.

 

When you have created 4-6 loops: gather the middle of the bow together, insert the wire or pipe cleaner  into the center loop and pull it back gathering all the other loops.  

Tighten the center of the bow and twist the pipe cleaner together.  Just trim off the end of the ribbon.

Then you can fluff the bow and spread out the loops to get a look that you like.  You also want to decide how long you want your tails to hang and cut them to the desired length.

For How to Video see:
https://youtu.be/kkvuKZwAENg