If you’ve ever wanted to make a Spring bow that’s versatile enough for everyday use yet stunning enough to elevate your decor, this tutorial is for you! Coach Jordan walks us through the steps to create a gorgeous bow featuring a fresh blue and white color scheme with pops of tan. Whether you’re crafting a wreath, a lantern swag, or simply adding flair to a gift, this bow is a perfect choice.
Materials Needed:
- Ribbon:
- 1.5” navy scallop edge
- 1.5” brown and white houndstooth
- 2.5” French peonies
- 2.5” blue and white gingham
- 2.5” blue velvet
- Zip ties
- Pipe cleaner
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Choose Your Ribbon Order
The key to a beautiful bow is layering your ribbons thoughtfully. For this bow, we’re working from narrow ribbons to wider ones:
- Start with your 1.5-inch scalloped edge ribbon (Coach Jordan’s “fancy panty”).
- Layer in the houndstooth.
- Follow with your 2.5-inch floral, gingham, and a final wide ribbon.
2. Measure and Create Loops
Each loop will increase by one inch as you layer:
- 1st Ribbon (Scalloped Edge):
- Tail: 10 inches.
- Loops: Two 5-inch loops.
- 2nd Ribbon (Houndstooth):
- Tail: 10 inches.
- Loops: Two 5.5-inch loops.
- 3rd Ribbon (Floral):
- Tail: 10 inches.
- Loops: Two 6-inch loops.
- 4th Ribbon (Gingham):
- Tail: 10 inches.
- Loops: Two 6.5-inch loops.
- 5th Ribbon (Optional Solid or Pattern):
- Add only a tail (no loops) to complete the design.
Pro Tip: When using an EZ Bow Maker, reverse the ribbon order—what you layer first on the tool will sit at the back of the bow.
3. Secure Your Bow
- Gather the ribbons in your hand or on your bow maker.
- Use a zip tie to secure the center of your bow tightly.
- Add a pipe cleaner to the back of the bow before fully tightening the zip tie. This will make it easy to attach your bow to wreaths, swags, or other decor.
4. Fluff and Arrange
- Before cinching the zip tie completely, adjust the loops and tails.
- Alternate patterns for visual interest (e.g., gingham in front of floral on one side, reversed on the other).
5. Dovetail the Tails
To finish your bow with a polished look:
- Fold the ends of each tail like a taco.
- Cut at an angle toward the folded edge for that signature “V” shape.
Why This Bow Stands Out
This design is versatile, elegant, and perfect for spring and summer decor. Here’s where you can use it:
- Wreaths: Grapevine or deco mesh.
- Lantern Swags: Add charm to your front porch or entryway.
- Cabinet Bows: Spruce up your kitchen decor.
- Gift Wrap: Add a custom touch to any present.
The color palette of blue, white, and tan makes it easy to match with various styles, from coastal vibes to rustic farmhouse.
Spring Bow Tutorial
Materials
- 1 roll 1-1/2” navy scallop edge
- 1 roll 1-1/2” brown and white houndstooth
- 1 roll 2-1/2” French peonies
- 1 roll 2-1/2” blue and white gingham
- 1 roll 2-1/2” blue velvet
- Zip ties
- Pipe cleaner
Instructions
Choose Your Ribbon Order
- The key to a beautiful bow is layering your ribbons thoughtfully. For this bow, we’re working from narrow ribbons to wider ones:
- Start with your 1.5-inch scalloped edge ribbon (Coach Jordan’s “fancy panty”).
- Layer in the houndstooth.
- Follow with your 2.5-inch floral, gingham, and a final wide ribbon.
- Measure and Create Loops
- Each loop will increase by one inch as you layer:
- 1st Ribbon (Scalloped Edge):
- Tail: 10 inches.
- Loops: Two 5-inch loops.
- 2nd Ribbon (Houndstooth):
- Tail: 10 inches.
- Loops: Two 5.5-inch loops.
- 3rd Ribbon (Floral):
- Tail: 10 inches.
- Loops: Two 6-inch loops.
- 4th Ribbon (Gingham):
- Tail: 10 inches.
- Loops: Two 6.5-inch loops.
- 5th Ribbon (Optional Solid or Pattern):
- Add only a tail (no loops) to complete the design.
Secure Your Bow
- Gather the ribbons in your hand or on your bow maker.
- Use a zip tie to secure the center of your bow tightly.
- Add a pipe cleaner to the back of the bow before fully tightening the zip tie. This will make it easy to attach your bow to wreaths, swags, or other decor.
Fluff and Arrange
- Before cinching the zip tie completely, adjust the loops and tails.
- Alternate patterns for visual interest (e.g., gingham in front of floral on one side, reversed on the other).
Dovetail the Tails
- To finish your bow with a polished look:
- Fold the ends of each tail like a taco.
- Cut at an angle toward the folded edge for that signature “V” shape.
Video
Final Thoughts
With a little practice, you can create stunning bows that add a special touch to your handmade projects. Remember, as Coach Jordan says, zip ties keep your bows “nice and perky,” ensuring they look lush and full.
Now it’s your turn—grab your ribbons and start creating! What will you use your bow for? Let us know in the comments below.
Happy crafting! 🎀
