Creating Wedding Invites: Making Ribbon Bows

Bows are a popular addition to wedding invitations, and can be made from different types of ribbon or paper. The type of bow you make will depend on the type of ribbon you use, and the finished effect you are looking for. This could be a traditional bow with loops, a 'Dior' bow, or a simple knot. The most popular types of ribbon used for wedding invitations are satin, organza, and silk.

How to make a Dior bow

Dior bows are frequently used on laser-cut wedding invitation wraps as they create a great sense of elegance. They are also easy to make and only require a piece of ribbon.

To make a Dior bow, you will need a piece of ribbon, sharp scissors, and a ruler. You can use any kind of ribbon, such as silk, grosgrain, or velvet, but the width of the ribbon will determine the size of the bow. If you want a nice-sized bow, cut a piece of ribbon between 15 and 20 inches long. This length is suitable for 1-inch thick ribbon, so adjust the length accordingly if your ribbon is thicker or thinner.

• Make a bunny-eared loop with the ribbon, and twist the longer end two times so that the same shiny side of the ribbon is still facing up.
• Make a second bunny ear with your ribbon, adjusting the loops to the desired size for your final bow loops. Ensure that the tails are fairly even.
• Fold the left loop over the right loop and bring it around and back through the center hole, similar to tying a shoe.
• Pull tight to create a knot. You can tug on the loops and tails to adjust the shape of your bow. Don't worry if it's not perfect on the first try.
• Once you're happy with the bow, trim the ends if desired.

You can also add a small pearl or crystal embellishment to the center of the Dior bow for a perfect finishing touch.

How to make a traditional bow with loops

To make a traditional bow with loops for your wedding invitations, follow these simple steps:

Materials:

• Ribbon (satin, organza or silk)
• Sharp Scissors
• Glue or Adhesive
• Embellishments (optional)

Step 1: Cut Your Ribbon

Using sharp scissors, cut two lengths of ribbon. One should be longer than the other. For a more compact bow, you can play around with the sizes. A good starting point is to cut one piece to 16cm and the other to 13cm.

Step 2: Create a Centre Crease

Take the longer piece of ribbon and bring the two ends together to fold it in half. Press down to create a visible line down the centre of the ribbon.

Step 3: Secure the Centre

Bring the edge of each ribbon to the crease in the centre and secure it with an adhesive. You can use a hot glue gun, double-sided tape, or glue dots.

Step 4: Layer the Loops

Place the smaller loop on top of the larger one. Ensure that the side without the join is facing upwards on the smaller piece. Secure it with adhesive.

Step 5: Embellish (optional)

Add an embellishment to the centre, such as a diamante or pearl. For a simpler look, take a small piece of the same ribbon and wrap it around the centre, securing it at the back.

Step 6: Trim Ribbon Ends (optional)

If desired, trim the ends of the ribbon at an angle.

How to tie a ribbon envelope

Tying a ribbon envelope is a simple method to add elegance to your wedding invitations. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to tie a ribbon envelope:

Take a piece of ribbon and cross the left piece over and under the right piece. Place your finger in the centre of the knot that is formed.

Now, form a loop with the right-hand piece of ribbon. It should be about an inch or so high. Bring the two lengths of the ribbon together, crossing right over left.

Then, go back around and pass the ribbon under and over the left piece, creating a loose knot. Pull the knot snug.

Finally, tie a bow. A simple technique to tie a bow is the bunny ears technique, where you make two bunny-eared loops, twist the longer end, and then make a second bunny ear. Adjust the loops to your desired size, fold the left loop over the right, and bring it around and back through the centre hole, just like tying a shoe. Pull it tight to create a knot, and there you have it—a beautifully tied ribbon envelope!

You can use any kind of ribbon, such as silk, grosgrain, or velvet. The width of the ribbon will determine the size of the bow, so choose according to your preference. For a formal and luxurious look, a wider ribbon is often chosen, while a skinnier ribbon is more suitable for a casual feel.

How to tie a ribbon on a scroll

The following is a step-by-step guide on how to tie a ribbon on a scroll, which can be used for wedding invitations.

Place your scroll in the middle of the ribbon. Holding the scroll closed, wrap the two ends of the ribbon towards you until they meet.

Tie a simple knot in the ribbon. You can do this by taking the left piece and crossing it over and underneath the right piece. Then, put your finger in the centre of that knot and form a loop with the right-hand side. Bring the two lengths of ribbon together, right over left, and then go back around and under so that you have a loose knot. Pull the knot tight.

Now you can tie a neat bow. You can use the bunny ears technique for this. Make a bunny-eared loop and twist the longer end twice so it becomes rope-like. Make sure the same side of the ribbon is still facing up. Make a second bunny ear and adjust the loops to your desired size. Fold the left loop over the right loop and bring it around and back through the centre hole, as if you are tying your shoe.

Pull tight to create a knot and adjust the loops and tails until you are happy with your bow. You can trim the ends if you like.

How to make a bow with wired ribbon

Making a bow with wired ribbon is quick and easy. Wired ribbons give structure to the bow, and if the shape gets distorted, it can be easily reshaped. The wire also helps the bow to maintain the loops and tails' shape.

Take a long piece of ribbon

Take a length of ribbon (at least 2 yards) and create a loop. Wrap the length of your ribbon in a continuous circle around that loop.

Determine the length of the tail

Decide on the length of the tail you want your bow to have. Add two inches to that length and then fold your loop in half from the centre.

Secure the centre

Pinch the centre of the folded loop and secure it with a matching pipe cleaner, wire, or chenille stem. Twist, tighten, and trim any excess.

Cut the tail

Cut vertically up the centre of your bow's tail to create two separate tails. The cut should almost reach the pipe cleaner.

Tie a knot

Using the two tails, tie a standard knot around the centre of your folded ribbon to cover the pipe cleaner.

Shape the loops

Fan out and adjust the loops of your bow to achieve your desired shape and fullness.

Trim the tails (optional)

If desired, trim the tails of the bow to your preferred length.

Tips:

• Wired ribbon is great for making big bows as the structured edges allow you to mould the bow into a dramatic size or shape.
• Use sharp scissors to make clean cuts.
• You can also heat-seal the ribbon with a flame or brush with Fray Check to prevent fraying.

Frequently asked questions