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

Pew bows are a decorative touch for weddings, adding glamour to the ceremony. They are usually placed on the side of the pews in a church facing the aisle where the bride walks, but they can also be used in non-traditional weddings. These bows can be made from ribbon, wired ribbon, tulle, and fresh flowers. The process involves cutting the desired material to the right length, creating loops, and securing them with a twist tie or ribbon. The final step is to attach the bow to the pew using invisible tape or crafting wire.

Gathering materials

To make bows for wedding pews, you will need a combination of ribbon, tulle, scissors, tape, and twist ties. The amount of material you will need depends on the number of bows you want to make, and the size of the pews.

For a traditional pew bow, you will need a roll of ribbon that is approximately six inches thick, as well as scissors and invisible tape. You can also use crafting wire to tie the bow to the pew. The length of ribbon you will need depends on the size of the bow you want to make. A good starting point is to use three yards (2.74 m) of ribbon for each bow, with an additional 12-inch (30 cm) strip to tie the bow together.

If you want to make a tulle pew bow, you will need wired ribbon, tulle, scissors, and twist ties. Again, the amount of material you will need depends on the size of the bow you want to make. You will need two to three feet of wired ribbon and tulle for each bow.

You can also add fresh flowers, rhinestones, or other embellishments to your bows for a more glamorous look.

Making the first loop

Now, for making the first loop: Take three yards (2.74 m) of your ribbon and create a loop by holding one end of the ribbon steady and folding the ribbon over on itself. The loop should be held steady with your index finger and thumb. This first loop will serve as the foundation for the rest of the bow, so it is important to make sure it is secure and the correct size.

The next step is to create the second loop. This loop should be at an angle to the first, not lined up on top of it. To do this, twist the remaining ribbon to the right and fold another loop, ensuring it is the same size as the first. Again, hold this loop with your index finger and thumb. You now have the base of your bow!

The following steps will create the rest of the loops and finish the bow.

Creating the next loop

Now that you've made your first loop, it's time to create the next one! This loop should be at an angle to the first one, not directly on top of it. To achieve this, you'll want to twist the remaining ribbon to the right and then fold it over to create another loop. Make sure this loop is the same size as the first one and that the centres of both loops line up. Hold this second loop in place with your index finger and thumb, just like you did with the first loop.

It's important to maintain a consistent size and angle for each loop, as this will give your bow a neat and elegant look. Keep the ribbon taut as you twist and fold it to create the loops. You should be able to feel the tension in the ribbon as you work.

If you're using wired ribbon, be careful not to crease it as you twist and fold. Wired ribbon has a thin wire running through it, which allows it to hold its shape. However, this wire can also be delicate, so handle the ribbon with care to avoid any kinks or bends.

At this point, you may find it helpful to set the first two loops aside and stretch out the remaining ribbon. This will give you a better sense of how much ribbon you have left to work with and can help you estimate the size and number of loops you'll be able to create.

Remember, you're aiming to create about 12 loops in total, so pace yourself accordingly! Creating the loops can be a bit tricky, so take your time and don't be afraid to adjust as you go.

Making the remaining loops

Continue making loops in the ribbon by twisting the remaining ribbon back and forth to the right and left. Each time you twist, make sure you are holding the centre of each loop with your thumb and index finger. You want to keep the loops at a consistent size, so they should be the same size as the first two loops you made. Make about 10 more loops, so you have a total of 12 loops.

If you are making a tulle pew bow, you will need to make 8 to 12 loops out of the tulle. These loops should be larger than the loops on the wired ribbon bow.

Tying the bow

Tying the perfect bow is an essential step in making decorative pew bows for a wedding. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving a beautiful and secure bow:

• Create the first loop: Take three yards (2.74 metres) of ribbon and create a loop by folding the ribbon over itself. Hold one end steady and use your index finger and thumb to hold the loop in place.
• Make the second loop: Twist the remaining ribbon to the right and create another loop at an angle to the first one. Ensure this loop is the same size as the first and line up the centres of both loops. Hold the second loop with the same fingers.
• Continue making loops: Keep twisting the ribbon back and forth to the right and left, forming approximately 12 loops of the same size. Hold the centre of each loop as you go to keep them in place.
• Secure the loops: Use another strip of ribbon, about 12 inches (30 cm) long, and wrap it around the centre of the bow where all the loops meet.
• Tie the knot: Tie a tight knot or bow in the middle of the pew bow. Ensure it is tight enough to keep all the loops steady. You can allow the remaining ribbon to fall down the centre of the bow for a more flowing look.
• Optional: Add detail: For a fancier finish, use scissors to cut a 3-inch (7.6 cm) line in the middle of each loop. Unfold the loops to reveal a decorative touch at the ends of the bow.
• Adjust the loops: Pull and fan out the loops with your hands to give the bow more dimension. Pull some loops forward and some backward to create an even, full appearance.

By following these steps, you will create a beautiful and secure bow that will add a decorative touch to the wedding pews.

Frequently asked questions