Creating A Burlap Wedding Bow: A Step-By-Step Guide

Burlap bows are a staple in rustic décor, adding a personal touch to wreaths and DIY projects. They are perfect for weddings, parties, and mantels. Making your own burlap bow is cost-effective and customisable. This guide will show you how to make a wedding bow out of burlap in six simple steps.

Choosing the right type of burlap ribbon

Burlap ribbon is an essential component when crafting a wedding bow, and choosing the right type is crucial. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the perfect burlap ribbon for your wedding bow:

Width:

The width of the ribbon will determine the size and proportion of your bow. Burlap ribbons typically range from 1/4 inch to 14 inches in width. For a medium-sized bow, a 2-3 inch wide ribbon is recommended. However, if you desire longer tails or a fuller bow, opt for a wider ribbon.

Wired or Non-Wired:

Burlap ribbon can be purchased with or without a wired edge. Wired burlap ribbon is an excellent choice for bows as it holds its shape well and is easier to manipulate into the desired form. It is ideal if you want a more structured and defined bow. On the other hand, non-wired ribbon offers more flexibility and is better suited for a softer, more natural look.

Color:

Burlap ribbon is available in various colors, including natural shades of green, tan, and brown. Colored burlap ribbon allows you to match your bow to your wedding color scheme. You can also mix and match different colors to create a unique and creative design.

Length:

The length of the ribbon will depend on the size of your bow. For a medium-sized bow, you will need approximately 24 inches of ribbon. If you desire longer tails, simply cut the ribbon to your desired length. Keep in mind that you may need to cut the ribbon into multiple sections to create the loops and tails of the bow.

Quality:

When choosing a burlap ribbon, opt for high-quality ribbon that holds its shape well. This will give your bow a more professional and polished look. Look for ribbons with sewn edges to prevent fraying, as frayed edges can make your bow appear messy.

Texture:

Burlap ribbons come in various textures, from smooth and soft to more coarse and rustic. The texture you choose will depend on the overall look you are aiming for. If you want a more elegant and refined bow, opt for a smoother texture. For a more rustic or natural look, choose a coarser texture.

In summary, when choosing a burlap ribbon for your wedding bow, consider the width, wired or non-wired edges, color, length, quality, and texture. By taking these factors into account, you can create a beautiful and elegant wedding bow that complements your wedding decor.

Cutting the burlap ribbon

If you are making a smaller bow, cut your burlap ribbon to about 13 inches. You can also cut about three yards of ribbon if you want to make a bigger bow. Fold the ribbon in half, and then continue folding it, making each fold a little smaller than the previous one. Cut the last fold of the ribbon so that it ends in the centre.

To prevent fraying, you can apply a small amount of clear-drying fabric glue or Mod Podge along the edges of the ribbon before you start folding.

Folding the ribbon

To make a burlap bow, you will need to cut a piece of burlap ribbon. The length of the ribbon will depend on the size of the bow you want to make. For a medium-sized bow, 24 inches should be enough. If you want longer tails or a fuller bow, cut a longer piece of ribbon.

Lay the ribbon flat on your work surface. Fold the ribbon back and forth to make two loops on each side, ensuring they are even in size. The number of loops you make will depend on the size of the bow you want. For a smaller bow, you might only need three folds, while for a larger, fluffier bow, you will need more folds.

Once you have made your loops, pinch the centre of the ribbon where all the loops meet to hold them in place. This is where the centre of your bow will be. You can now wrap a piece of florist wire or twine around the centre of the folds and tie it off tightly. This will secure all the loops together.

Now comes the fun part! Gently twist and fluff the loops to make a full and even bow. Adjust the loops as needed to ensure they are symmetrical and have a pleasing shape. You can also cut the ends of the bow's tails at an angle or in a "V" shape for added detail.

And there you have it! A beautiful, handmade burlap bow that can be used to decorate wreaths, gifts, or your home. With just a few simple steps, you've added a rustic and charming touch to your creations.

Securing the centre of the bow

Using Floral Wire or Zip Tie:

Pinch the centre of the burlap ribbon where all the loops meet. Using floral wire or a zip tie, tightly secure the centre of the ribbon where you've pinched it. This will be the middle of your bow and will hold the loops together. Make sure to tie it off as tightly as possible to prevent it from loosening.

Using Twine:

Take a piece of twine and wrap it around the middle of your burlap several times. Tie a knot at the bottom, securing it vertically around all the rows. Pull tightly to cinch the fabric and ensure it is extra tight. You can also use wire instead of twine for added security.

Using Hot Glue:

Apply hot glue to the centre of the bow, where the loops meet. Press and hold the loops together until the glue dries. This method creates a strong bond and is ideal if you want to avoid using wire or twine.

Using a Leaf Rake:

For a unique approach, you can use a leaf rake to create and secure your bow. Fold the burlap strip as you go, weaving it through the prongs of the rake in an alternating over-and-under pattern. Tie the centre of the bow by threading a strip of burlap through the space between the two centre prongs. Secure it tightly before gently removing the bow from the rake.

Finishing Touches:

Once the centre of your bow is secured, you can add some final touches. Cut the ends of the burlap at an angle, in a "V" shape, or diagonally to create a decorative finish. You can also attach additional embellishments like buttons, artificial flowers, or beads to the centre of your bow for added charm.

Final adjustments

Now that you have the basic structure of your burlap bow, it's time to refine and perfect it. Here are some tips for making those final adjustments:

• Fluff and shape the loops: Gently pull apart the loops of the bow to make them fuller and more even. Adjust the loops as needed to ensure they are symmetrical and have a pleasing shape. You can also twist and turn the loops to create the exact look you want. Don't be afraid to play around with the burlap – its thickness will help it hold its shape.
• Add tails: Cut another piece of burlap ribbon for the tails of your bow. The length can vary depending on your preference, but typically they range from 12 to 18 inches. Fold this piece of ribbon in half to find the centre, then attach it to the back of the bow using wire or a zip tie.
• Cut the ends of the tails: For added detail, cut the ends of the tails at an angle or in a "V" shape. This will give your bow a more decorative and polished look.
• Secure the bow to your wreath: If you're using the burlap bow for a wreath, use excess wire or an additional piece to secure the bow to the wreath's base. Twist it tightly to ensure the bow is firmly in place.
• Final touches: Step back and admire your handiwork! Make any last adjustments to ensure the bow looks even and full. Remember, your bow doesn't have to be perfect – the beauty of a handmade bow lies in its unique character and the care you put into crafting it.

Frequently asked questions