Creating Rustic Burlap Bows For Your Wedding Day

Burlap bows are a great way to add a rustic touch to your wedding decor. They are easy to make and can be used to decorate everything from wreaths to chairs and even the cake table! In this blog post, we will show you how to make a simple yet beautiful burlap bow that will impress your guests and add a unique touch to your special day. So, whether you're looking for a cost-effective way to decorate your wedding or simply want to add a rustic element, follow these simple steps to create the perfect burlap bow.

Choosing the right type of burlap ribbon

Burlap ribbon is a popular choice for weddings, offering a rustic charm to decorations. When choosing the right type of burlap ribbon, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the ribbon width is important. For wedding pew bows, a width of 2.5 inches is commonly used, while for a tree topper, a wider ribbon of 12-18 inches is more suitable. The desired width of the bow will also determine the length of the ribbon required.

The type of fibre used to make the burlap ribbon is another key consideration. Burlap ribbon is typically made from natural fibres such as flax, jute, or hemp, which lend a rustic look and feel to the ribbon. These natural fibres are also biodegradable and recyclable, making them an eco-friendly choice.

Additionally, the colour and pattern of the ribbon should be chosen to complement the wedding theme and colour scheme. Burlap ribbon is available in various colours, from natural shades of green, tan, and brown to more vibrant hues. Wired burlap ribbon is also an option, which can help to maintain the shape of bows and floral arrangements.

When selecting a burlap ribbon, it is important to consider the purpose of the ribbon and the desired look. For example, wired ribbons may be more suitable for structured bows, while natural-coloured ribbons can add a rustic touch. Craft stores offer a range of options, and comparing ribbons side by side can help in choosing the most suitable one for your wedding.

Cutting the burlap ribbon

To cut the ribbon, first decide how wide you want your bow to be. Fold the ribbon in half, this will be the centre of your bow. For a 4-5 inch bow, each half will be 2-2.5 inches wide. If you are using a large ribbon, you can simply fold the ribbon in half without cutting it first, as the edge will already have a hem.

If you are using a smaller ribbon, you will need to cut the ribbon to the desired width. To avoid a frayed mess, pull out a single strand of burlap and use it as a guide to cut across the ribbon. This will help to reduce fraying and shedding.

Folding the ribbon

The first step is to cut a foot-long strip of burlap ribbon. The length of the ribbon will determine the size of your bow. If you are making a very large bow, you may want to wait to cut the ribbon until you are ready to tie it. For a medium-sized bow, cut the ribbon to a length of 24 inches.

Now, fold the ribbon into three sections. This will create the loops of your bow. The middle section will be the largest, while the two side sections will be slightly smaller. You can adjust the size of the loops by folding the ribbon at different points.

Once you have folded the ribbon to the desired length, it's time to secure the middle section. Take a piece of twine or string and wrap it tightly around the centre of the bow. Make sure to tie a secure knot so that the bow doesn't come undone. You may even want to wrap the twine around the centre a few times to ensure that it is secure.

At this point, you can cut the twine to the length of the bow, and your basic burlap bow is complete! However, if you want to add some extra flair, you can continue to the next step.

If you want to create a fuller, more decorative bow, you can add additional loops. Simply fold the ribbon again, creating another set of loops on each side. You can adjust the size of these loops as well by folding the ribbon at different points. Secure the new loops by wrapping the twine around the centre again and tying a tight knot.

Now, you can cut the twine to the desired length, and your burlap bow is complete! You can adjust the loops and fluff the bow to create the exact look you want. The thick burlap material will hold its shape well, so you can play around with the folds until you achieve the perfect bow.

Securing the bow with twine or string

When it comes to securing your burlap bow with twine or string, there are a few methods you can use. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide:

Firstly, cut a small piece of jute string, twine, or any other type of string you prefer. The length can vary depending on the size of your bow and how many times you want to wrap it around. It's better to cut a longer piece and trim the excess later. Set the string aside for now.

Next, pinch the centre of the burlap ribbon tightly. This will create a crease in the fabric, making it easier to secure the string. Take the string and wrap it around the centre of the bow. You can choose to wrap it twice or thrice around the middle, depending on how secure you want it to be.

Now, tie a knot at the bottom. Make sure to tie it tightly so that it doesn't come undone. You can even loop the string a few times around the centre before tying the knot for added security.

If you're using twine, you can cut it to the length of the bow "feet" or leave it longer, depending on the look you want to achieve. And that's it! Your burlap bow is now securely tied with twine or string.

You can also use florist wire to secure the centre of the bow before wrapping it with string or twine. This adds an extra layer of security and makes it easier to tie the knot. Simply wrap the wire around the centre of the bow a few times and twist the ends together. Then, proceed with wrapping the string or twine as mentioned above.

Remember, the length of the string or twine you use will depend on the size of your bow and how many times you want to wrap it around. It's always better to cut a longer piece and trim the excess later.

Attaching the bow to a wreath, chair, or other surface

Once you have made your burlap bow, you can attach it to a wreath, chair, or any other surface. If you are using the bow for a wedding, you can attach it to a wreath, a chair, or a pew. You can also use the bow to decorate a cake table, door hanger, or anywhere else you want to draw attention.

To attach the bow, you will need some additional materials such as florist wire, chenille stems, or jute string. For example, if you are attaching the bow to a wreath, you can use florist wire to secure the bow to the wreath form. If you are attaching the bow to a chair, you can use chenille stems or florist wire to create a loop that can be draped over the chair back.

Another option is to use a separate piece of twine or string to tie the bow to the desired surface. Simply tie the string securely around the center of the bow and then use the ends of the string to tie the bow to the wreath, chair, or other surface. This method allows for easy adjustment and repositioning of the bow.

When attaching the bow, consider the placement and overall look you are trying to achieve. For example, when placing the bow on a wreath, you might want to position it slightly off-center, adding a unique touch to your decoration. Play around with different placements until you find the arrangement that suits your aesthetic preferences.

Frequently asked questions