Small bows can add that special finishing touch to wreaths, gifts, crafts and more. But they can be surprisingly difficult to get right. Often times you’ll spend hours making bows, just to end up frustrated with a big, floppy mess. However, you don’t need a ton of experience or expensive equipment to learn how to make perfect, professional-looking small bows for all your creative endeavors.
In this post you’ll learn tips and tricks from a master bow-maker. With a little patience, practice, and the right information, you can be confidently creating eye-catching, small bows in no time.
Table of Contents:
- Picking the Right Ribbon
- Getting the Right Supplies
- Mastering the Basic Small Bow
- Taking it a Step Further
- Ideas For Small Bows
- Conclusion
Picking the Right Ribbon
Believe it or not, one of the biggest mistakes people make is choosing the wrong type of ribbon.
Wired vs. Unwired Ribbon
Wired ribbon has a thin wire running along the edges, which makes it easy to shape and mold. This makes it a perfect choice if you want to make full, shapeable bows. But for certain applications like making a Multi-Ribbon Bow, or even for the more experienced crafter wanting more flexibility to work the ribbon, you may decide to go with unwired.
Different Ribbon Materials
Each ribbon material brings something different to the table: some are better for holding their shape, while others provide luxurious texture. Satin ribbon has a soft, shiny finish that’s perfect for elegant bows. It drapes beautifully and looks fantastic on gifts and floral arrangements. Grosgrain ribbon, by contrast, is more textured with a subtle ribbed appearance. It’s known for its durability and versatility, making it popular for a wide range of craft projects, including, of course, bows. There’s also velvet ribbon, organza ribbon, and a whole host more. Experiment and find which works best for your needs and taste.
Getting the Right Supplies
You won’t get far without the right equipment. It’s helpful to have all of these ready at your workstation.
Essential Supplies for Making Small Bows:
- Sharp Scissors
- Hot glue gun
- Staple gun
- Floral Wire (if using unwired ribbon)
- Wire Cutters
- Your Ribbon of Choice: wired and unwired
- Scrap rope
Having a dedicated, organized workspace is really going to improve your bow-making game and help keep your supplies straight.
Mastering the Basic Small Bow
There’s nothing quite so versatile – or crucial to master – than the basic bow. Let’s break down how it’s done, step-by-step:
The Step-By-Step Guide
- Measure and Cut Your Ribbon: Use a ruler to determine the desired length for your small bows. Typically, 6-8 inches of ribbon is perfect. Cut a piece of ribbon accordingly.
- Create the First Loop: Take one end of the ribbon and make a loop, holding it between your thumb and forefinger.
- Form the Second Loop: Pinch the ribbon about an inch below the first loop. Make a second loop of equal size to the first. This second loop is on the same side and facing the same direction as the first.
- Cross the Loops: Take the first loop you made and cross it over the second, creating an “X” in the center. Make sure the loops are lined up and the ‘X’ is in the center for a symmetrical look.
- Secure the Center: If you are using floral wire, take a 6-inch piece and wrap it tightly around the center of your bow to secure it.
- Fluff and Shape: Holding onto the wire, use your fingers to fluff up the loops and adjust until your bow has the fullness and shape you want. Adjust as needed.
Taking it a Step Further
If you want more volume and depth, there’s no reason why you can’t create.
Ideas For Small Bows
Wondering where small bows can make a difference to your work? These are incredibly versatile. Here’s a few ideas for where to put your newfound bow-making skills to the test.
Putting your Small Bows to Good Use
* Attach a small bow to the top of a wrapped gift to give it that perfect finishing touch. * Small bows add whimsy and personality to gift baskets or party favors. * Use a bit of hot glue to add a delicate small bow to each place setting at a dinner party for that added level of sophistication and elegance.
Equipment
- Sharp Scissors
- Staple gun
Materials
- Floral Wire if using unwired ribbon
- Misc leftover 2.5 inch and 1.5 inch wired ribbons
- Misc non wired coordinating ribbons
- Scrap rope
Instructions
- Measure and Cut Your Ribbon: Use a ruler to determine the desired length for your small bows. Typically, 6-8 inches of ribbon is perfect. Cut a piece of ribbon accordingly.
- Create the First Loop: Take one end of the ribbon and make a loop, holding it between your thumb and forefinger.
- Form the Second Loop: Pinch the ribbon about an inch below the first loop. Make a second loop of equal size to the first. This second loop is on the same side and facing the same direction as the first.
- Cross the Loops: Take the first loop you made and cross it over the second, creating an “X” in the center. Make sure the loops are lined up and the ‘X’ is in the center for a symmetrical look.
- Secure the Center: If you are using floral wire, take a 6-inch piece and wrap it tightly around the center of your bow to secure it.
- Fluff and Shape: Holding onto the wire, use your fingers to fluff up the loops and adjust until your bow has the fullness and shape you want. Adjust as needed.
Conclusion
Learning how to make beautiful small bows is an investment. While small bows might seem simple at first, mastering the art of crafting the perfect bow can really take your creativity to the next level. By mastering these techniques, your gifts, decor, and crafts are sure to stand out from the crowd.
