Making Your Own Bows

Everyone knows how to tie shoes. Bowmaking is basically the same - the secret is when working with ribbon with every loop you TWIST THE RIBBON so that it makes it THINNER in the middle to work with. To begin, leave the end for the TAIL the length you desire. Make a Loop (as big as you want it) and TWIST- make a loop on the other side TWIST - Keep following this method until you have as many loops as you want (5-6 on each side makes a nice wreath or Pew bow)

After finished wrap thin wire in the middle and twist so that it really tight around the loops. Don't forget to leave enough for your 2nd TAIL! Now that it is assembled PULL and SHAPE your loops into a bow. It takes 3-4 yards of ribbon per each Pew or Wreath bow.

When making bows for corsages 2 yards will be more than enough as you will want only 3-4 loops to each side. For bouquets 3-4 loops will be sufficient. REMEMBER: if the ribbon is twisted good and thin and wired TIGHTLY, you can work with it all you want until you get the desired results. MAKE YOUR OWN! Practice makes perfect!

By Sharon, KY

Answers:

Making Your Own Bows

I make my own bows in the same manner for Christmas. What I do is save all those little plastic coated wires you receive with lots of stuff. You know the ones that holds what you purchased in the packaging. Toys are always filled with them. Between saving them up and buying ribbon on sale through out the year Pretty ribbons aren't costly anymore. (05/17/2005)

By Donna