Creating Wedding Hair Bows: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding hair bows are a fun accessory for brides who want to forgo the veil. They can be made from various materials, such as velvet, silk, or tulle, and can be simple or ornate, depending on the desired look. Making a hair bow for a wedding is a simple DIY project that can add a unique touch to your special day. All you need is a ribbon of your choice, some wire, scissors, and a few simple techniques to create a beautiful bow.

Making a basic bow with ribbon

Once you have your ribbon, follow these steps:

• Make a loop with one end of the ribbon.
• Make another loop on the opposite side of the first loop. If you don't want tails on your bow, tuck the short end of the ribbon behind the loops to keep it hidden. If you do want tails, leave the short end hanging.
• Bring the ribbon behind the loops out to the side below the first loop and then upward towards the centre to make a third loop. Place the end of the ribbon over the centre of all three loops.
• Grab the ribbon at the top right corner and fold it over and back to the centre to make the fourth and final loop. Don't worry if your loops are uneven at this point, as you will have a chance to adjust them later.
• Pinch the centre of the bow tightly and secure it with a small piece of craft or floral wire. Wrap the wire around the ribbon to the backside and twist it several times to keep it in place.
• Clip the wires and bend them tightly against the bow.
• Adjust your loops to make them even by pulling on them individually.
• If you have tails, cut them so they are the same length. If you don't want tails, cut the ribbon on the back short enough to be hidden behind the bow.
• Burn the edges of the ribbon to prevent fraying.
• Take a smaller piece of coordinating ribbon and lay it over the wire in the centre of your bow.
• Tie a knot with the ribbon at the back of the bow.

And there you have it—a basic hair bow! You can attach it to an alligator clip or any other type of hair clip, tie, or headband using hot glue or fabric glue.

Using wired ribbon for a bigger bow

Wired ribbon is a great way to make a bigger bow for wedding hair. The wire helps to shape the bow and mould it into a dramatic size or shape.

To make a basic bow with wired ribbon, you will need to:

• Cut a length of ribbon. The length will depend on how big you want the bow to be. The longer the ribbon, the bigger the bow.
• Make two loops in your ribbon, pointing upwards. Find the centre of the ribbon first and make a loop on each side.
• Cross the loops over and under each other and gently tug to tighten the knot.
• Adjust the length of the loops and tails, pulling them to your desired length.
• Straighten the knot if needed. If you are using a wide ribbon, the knot may be wrinkled. Slip your forefingers under each side of the knot and straighten out the edges.
• Shape the ribbons and trim the tails. Fluff the loops with your fingers and trim the tails with scissors, cutting at an angle or into notches if you wish.

For a fancier, fuller bow, try this method:

• Place the end of a wide, wired ribbon in the centre of a book, moving it towards the spine by about 0.5-1 inch.
• Wrap the ribbon around the book 5-9 times, keeping it in the same place each time. Avoid wrapping too tightly.
• Trim the excess ribbon just past the midpoint of the book cover, so that the ends overlap by 0.5-1 inch.
• Slide the bundle off the book, keeping the loops in place.
• Wrap a thin wire around the middle of the bundle and pinch it tightly.
• Cut a separate piece of ribbon for the tails of your bow. It should be two and a half times the length you want the tails to be.
• Tie a loose knot in the centre of the tail ribbon.
• Wrap the tail ribbon around the middle of the bow, making sure the smooth part of the knot is facing out.
• Use the excess wire to tie the tail ribbons in place.
• Fluff and shape the ribbon to your liking and trim the tails if they are too long.

Decorating champagne and wine glasses

There are several ways to decorate champagne and wine glasses for a wedding. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Glass Etching

Glass etching is a popular way to decorate champagne glasses for a wedding. It gives the glasses an elegant and sophisticated look that is perfect for formal events. To etch your champagne glasses, you will need glass etching cream, a stencil or vinyl cutout, and a small paintbrush. Clean the glasses thoroughly and let them dry before applying the etching cream. Secure the stencil or vinyl cutout on the glass, then use the paintbrush to apply a thick coat of etching cream to the exposed areas. Leave the cream on for the recommended time, then rinse it off under running water. Remove the stencil, and your beautifully etched glasses are ready!

Ribbon and Charm Embellishments

Ribbon and charm embellishments are a quick and easy way to decorate your glasses. Choose a ribbon that complements your wedding theme or colour scheme. Cut a length of ribbon long enough to wrap around the stem of the glass and secure one end with double-sided tape or glue. Wrap the ribbon tightly around the stem, ensuring it is smooth and even. Secure the other end with another piece of tape or glue. You can also attach a charm to the ribbon using a small jump ring or thin wire.

Hand-Painted Designs

If you're feeling artistic, you can hand-paint designs on your glasses. Choose a set of glasses with a smooth surface and gather acrylic paints and fine paintbrushes. Plan your design in advance, either by sketching it out or using a stencil. Paint your design using thin, even strokes, and allow the paint to dry completely. You may want to bake the glasses in the oven to set the design, according to the paint manufacturer's instructions.

Engraving

Engraving is a more advanced technique that requires a steady hand and some craft supplies, including glass etching gel, carbon and contact paper, scissors, a brush, a craft knife, and a pencil. You can engrave the bride and groom's monograms or simply "Mr." and "Mrs." onto the glasses, creating a cherished keepsake.

Mod Podge and Glitter

Decorating glasses with Mod Podge and glitter is a fun and relatively easy option. Apply Mod Podge to the flute, pour glitter onto a plate, and roll the flute in the glitter. Repeat for the best results.

Nails Polish or Paint

Using nail polish or paint, you can decorate the glasses with hearts, flowers, or other designs. This method is simple and accessible, and you can use a variety of colours to match your wedding theme.

Ribbons and Flowers

This is a simple yet effective method. Wrap ribbons around the stems of the glasses or tie them in bows. Gold ribbons usually work well with any wedding décor, but you can also match the wedding colour scheme. Add artificial flowers tied on with the ribbons for a rustic or country-themed wedding.

Gems and Rhinestones

Coloured rhinestones and gems are a popular way to decorate wedding glasses. Use glass glue and a toothpick to place each gem in your desired location. You can keep it simple with basic gold stones or go all out with sparkling sapphire flutes.

Adding a bow to a gazebo or wedding arch

Planning and Preparation:

Before adding a bow to your gazebo or wedding arch, it's essential to plan and prepare. Consider the following:

• Select the Right Ribbon or Fabric: Choose a ribbon or fabric that complements your wedding colour palette and theme. Consider the width of the ribbon, as this will determine the size of your bow. Wider ribbons will create larger, more dramatic bows.
• Determine the Location of the Bow: Decide where you want to place the bow on your gazebo or arch. Measure the area to ensure your bow is proportionate and fits well.
• Gather Your Materials: Along with your chosen ribbon or fabric, you'll need basic supplies like scissors, a ruler, glue, and pipe cleaners (if using wired ribbon).

Creating the Bow:

• Cut the Ribbon: Cut a piece of ribbon between 15 and 20 inches long. This length is suitable for a 1-inch thick ribbon. Adjust the length accordingly if you're using a thinner or thicker ribbon.
• Create the First Loop: Make a "bunny-eared" loop with the ribbon, and twist the longer end twice to create a rope-like texture. Ensure the shiny side of the ribbon remains facing up.
• Form the Second Loop: Create another "bunny ear" with your ribbon, adjusting the loops to your desired size. Ensure the tails are relatively even.
• Tie the Knot: Fold the left loop over the right loop, bringing it around and back through the centre hole, similar to tying a shoelace. Pull it tight to create a secure knot.
• Adjust and Trim: Tug on the loops and tails to finesse your bow. Don't worry if it's not perfect on the first try. Once you're happy with the overall shape, trim the ends of the ribbon if needed.

Attaching the Bow to the Gazebo or Arch:

• Secure the Bow: Depending on the structure of your gazebo or arch, you may use glue, string, or other fasteners to attach the bow. Ensure it is securely fastened and won't come loose.
• Positioning the Bow: Place the bow in the desired location on your gazebo or arch. If using a fabric bow, you may need to drape and pin it in place. Ensure it is securely attached and won't sag or slip.
• Final Adjustments: Stand back and assess the overall appearance. Make any necessary adjustments to the bow's position, shape, or size to ensure it complements your gazebo or arch perfectly.

Adding a bow to your gazebo or wedding arch is a wonderful way to incorporate your wedding colours and theme into the ceremony decor. With careful planning, preparation, and execution, your bow will be a beautiful addition to your special day.

Sewing fabric bows

To sew a fabric bow, you will need:

• Fabric of your choice (cotton, silk, or linen are good options)
• Thread (coordinating or contrasting)
• A ruler
• A needle or sewing machine
• Fabric scissors
• An iron and ironing board (optional)

Step 1: Create a Simple Pattern

Start by layering two or more pieces of fabric with their right sides together. Trim the fabric to form a rectangle, approximately 9 inches by 3.5 inches. You can adjust this size as desired for smaller or larger bows. Fold the fabric rectangle in half and mark a dot in the centre, about 4.5 inches from the fold. Draw two curved lines from the dot to the top and bottom of the fold line, then cut out your pattern.

Step 2: Pin Layers Together

Choose your first two layers and pin them together, with the right sides facing each other. Remember to leave an opening in the centre for turning the fabric inside out.

Step 3: Stitch Layers Together

Stitch the layers together using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Repeat this step for any additional layers.

Step 4: Turn Right Side Out

Turn the fabric inside out, being careful not to poke a hole in the fabric. You can use a blunt knitting needle to gently help turn the fabric.

Step 5: Press and Stitch Opening

Press the fabric and stitch the opening closed. Repeat this step for any additional bows.

Step 6: Top Stitch Perimeter

Use a zigzag stitch in a contrasting colour to add a decorative touch to the edge of your bow.

Step 7: Choose Clips

You can choose from several types of clips, such as alligator clips (with tapered or squared ends) or French barrettes. French clips work well for fine hair.

Step 8: Tie Knot to Attach Bow to Clip

Congratulations! You've created a sweet and simple fabric hair bow. To reverse the bow and show the other side of the fabric, simply remove it from the clip and place it back on with the reverse side showing. You can also re-tie the knot and give it a quick press to refresh the bow.

Additional Tips:

• Choose a lightweight fabric that is easy to manipulate.
• Use sharp scissors to cut the fabric to avoid frayed edges.
• Iron the fabric before sewing to remove any wrinkles or creases.
• A sewing machine can make the process faster and help create even stitches.
• Leave enough seam allowance when sewing the fabric pieces together to prevent the bow from falling apart.
• Use thread that matches the fabric colour to make the stitches less noticeable.
• Clip the corners after sewing to reduce bulk and make it easier to turn the fabric right side out.
• Hand-stitch the final seam for a clean and polished finish.
• Experiment with different sizes and shapes to create a variety of bows for different occasions.

Frequently asked questions