Creating Wedding Pew Bows: A Floral Guide

Pew bows are a great way to decorate the seats at your wedding ceremony, adding a touch of colour and style. They are usually made with wired ribbon, which makes it easier to create a gorgeous, voluminous decoration without complicated tying. You can also add flowers and other decorative details to make your pew bows even more glamorous.

Choosing the right flowers and ribbons

When choosing the flowers and ribbons for your pew bows, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you'll want to select flowers and ribbons that complement your wedding colour palette and theme. If you're having a rustic wedding in the countryside, for example, you might opt for twine and leather to wrap your bouquets, whereas a romantic garden wedding might call for trailing ribbon accents.

For a classic look, a simple white ribbon wrap will help the brightest shades in your bouquet stand out. If you're after something a little more whimsical, a colourful, playful bouquet can be toned down with a subtle ribbon. Alternatively, a bold, colourful bouquet can be accentuated with a bright ribbon.

When it comes to flowers, small silk flowers are a popular choice for pew bows, with roses being a common option. You can also add a bit of sparkle to your pew bows with glitter-adorned flowers. If you're using fresh flowers, a large bloom like a rose, paired with filler flowers or greenery like baby's breath, can make a beautiful display.

The width of your ribbon is also important. For pew bows, a width of 1 to 1.5 inches is recommended to match or accent bridal gowns and live flowers. Wired edging will also help you better control the shape of your bows.

Making the loops

• Take three yards (2.74 m) of ribbon and make a loop by holding one end of the ribbon and folding the ribbon over on itself. Hold the loop steady with your index finger and thumb.
• Create the next loop by twisting the remaining ribbon to the right and folding it over to make another loop. Ensure this loop is the same size as the first and sits at a slight angle, rather than directly on top. Grab this loop with the same fingers.
• Continue making loops by twisting the ribbon back and forth to the right and left, ensuring each loop is the same size and held in place by your fingers. Make about 12 loops.
• Hold the loops steady with one hand in the centre.
• Cut a 12-inch (30 cm) strip of wired ribbon and wrap it around the middle of the bow, where all the loops meet.
• Tie a knot or bow tightly in the centre of the pew bow. Allow the remaining ribbon to fall down the middle of the bow.
• (Optional) To add detail to the bow, cut a 3-inch (7.6 cm) line in the middle of each loop. Unfold the bow and you will notice an added detail on the ends.
• Adjust the loops by pulling on them and fanning them out. Pull some forward and some backward to give the bow more dimension.

Attaching the bow

Use invisible tape to stick the bow to the pew, or craft wire to tie it in place.

Tying the knot

Now it's time to tie the knot!

Take your 3 yards (2.74 m) of ribbon and create your first loop. Hold one end steady and fold the ribbon over itself. Hold the loop with your thumb and index finger. Twist the remaining ribbon to the right and create another loop, this time at an angle to the first. Ensure this loop is the same size as the first and hold it with your thumb and index finger. Continue to make loops, twisting the ribbon back and forth to the right and left, holding the centre of each loop as you go. You should aim for 12 loops in total.

Once you have your loops, wrap another strip of ribbon (around 12 inches or 30 cm) around the centre of the bow, where all the loops meet. Now, tie a knot or bow in the middle, keeping it tight so that the loops stay in place. You can let the remaining ribbon fall down the centre of the bow.

If you want to add extra detail, take a pair of scissors and cut a 3-inch line (around 7.6 cm) in the middle of each loop. Unfold the bow and you will see a pretty, added detail on the ends. Adjust the loops by pulling on them and fanning them out—pull some forward and some backward to give the bow more dimension.

Finally, attach your bow to the pew using invisible tape or crafting wire.

Adding detail to the bow

Now that you have the basic structure of your pew bow, it's time to add some extra details to make it more visually appealing. Here are some ideas to enhance the look of your wedding pew bows:

• Cut the ribbon ends at an angle: Cut the ends of the ribbon at an angle to give them a polished and elegant finish. Ensure that the ribbon doesn't touch the floor; it should end a few inches above the ground.
• Add flowers: Include fresh or artificial flowers to your pew bow to bring in colour and a natural touch. You can use a single rose or another large bloom, along with baby's breath or other filler flowers or greenery. Secure the flowers together with floral tape and wire, and then attach them to the knot of the ribbon with floral wire.
• Create a layered effect: Combine different types of ribbon or fabric to create a layered and textured look. For example, you can use wired ribbon for the base bow and then add a layer of tulle or chiffon to give it a softer, more romantic feel.
• Embellishments: Rhinestone or pearl embellishments can be added to the centre of the bow to give it a glamorous touch. You can also use a brooch as an embellishment for a more unique and personal touch.
• Ribbon details: Experiment with different types of ribbon to add detail to your bow. You can use wired ribbon, sheer ribbon, satin ribbon, or organza ribbon. You can also use ribbon with a different colour or pattern in the centre of the bow to create a focal point.
• Scalloped edges: Instead of straight cuts, you can create scalloped edges on the ribbon ends for a more whimsical and intricate look. Fold the ribbon in half vertically and cut a line in the middle, then unfold it to reveal a pretty scalloped detail.
• Adjust the loops: Play around with the loops of the ribbon to create a fuller and more dimensional look. Pull some loops forward and some backward to add depth and texture to the bow.

Attaching the bow

• Visit the venue to determine the best method for attaching the bows. Most pews have a place to loop the ribbon. Measure the spot where you will be looping the ribbon so you know how big to make the loop.
• If your venue doesn't have a specific spot to attach the bows, consider using invisible tape to stick the bows onto the pews. Alternatively, you can use crafting wire or florist wire to tie the bows around the pews.
• If you are using wire, cut a piece of wire about 6 inches long. Slip the wire through the back of the tied bow and loosely twist the ends closed. This will be used to hang or attach the bow to the pew.
• If you are using tape, cut a small piece of invisible tape and stick it onto the pew where you want to place the bow. Press the back of the bow onto the tape.
• Ensure that the loops of the bow are adjusted to your liking and fan out nicely. Pull some loops forward and some backward to give the bow dimension.

Your pew bows are now ready to decorate the venue for your special day!

Frequently asked questions