Crafting Large, Simple Wedding Bows: A Step-By-Step Guide

Making a large, simple bow for wedding decor is a fun and easy DIY project. All you need is a roll of wired-edge ribbon, some florist wire, and a pair of scissors. The wider the ribbon, the bigger the bow, so opt for a roll that is at least three yards long. You can also add some wired, battery-powered fairy lights to your bow for some extra sparkle.

To make the bow, start by making a loop with the ribbon. From the tail of the ribbon to the loop, you should have 7-8 inches of ribbon. Continue making loops of the same size until you have at least 5 loops on either side. Cut the ribbon so that the remaining tail faces the opposite direction of the beginning tail. Pinch the centre of the loops so that both sides are the same length, then wrap the pinched centre with florist wire. Finally, pull the loops apart to make your bow, twisting the ribbon until you get the desired result. Finish by pulling out the tails to create the tail of the bow.

Choosing the right ribbon

The ribbon you choose for your wedding pots will depend on the look you are going for, as well as the size of the pot. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect ribbon for your large, simple bow:

Type of Ribbon

There are many different types of ribbons that you can use to make a bow, including satin, grosgrain, velvet, floral, wired, and sheer organza. The type of ribbon you choose will depend on the overall look you are trying to achieve. For example, if you want a more elegant and luxurious look, you might choose a ribbon with a luxurious silk or satin finish. On the other hand, if you want a more rustic or farmhouse-inspired look, you might choose a burlap or wired ribbon.

Width of Ribbon

The width of the ribbon will also play a role in the overall look of your bow. As a general rule, the wider the ribbon, the bigger the bow. If you are making a large bow, you will want to choose a wider ribbon. For wedding pots, a wider ribbon will also help to create a more dramatic and eye-catching look. Keep in mind that you will need more ribbon if you choose a wider option, so be sure to purchase enough to create the desired effect.

Color and Pattern

The color and pattern of the ribbon can be chosen to match the wedding's color scheme or theme. You can opt for a solid color or a patterned ribbon, depending on your preference. If you want to add a bit of sparkle, you can choose a ribbon with a shimmery finish or even add some wired, battery-powered fairy lights to the bow. This can be especially nice for an evening wedding, creating a romantic and magical atmosphere.

Wired vs. Non-Wired Ribbon

Wired ribbon is a great option for creating bows as it helps to hold the shape of the loops and tails. This can be especially useful if you are a beginner at bow-making, as it will make the process easier and give you more control over the final look of the bow. Wired ribbon is also a good choice if you want to create a big, dramatic bow, as it will help you achieve the desired shape and fullness.

Amount of Ribbon Needed

When deciding on the amount of ribbon to purchase, it is always better to err on the side of caution and buy more than you think you need. You can always cut the ribbon to the desired length, but if you run out halfway through, it can be frustrating and time-consuming to have to go out and buy more. As a general rule, you will need between 15 and 20 inches of ribbon for a nice-sized bow, but for larger bows, you may need up to 3 yards or more.

Making loops

To begin, cut a piece of ribbon that is at least three yards long. Then, create your first loop. This should be the largest loop and will determine the size of the other loops. The ribbon should go from the tail of the ribbon to the loop, which should be around 7-8 inches long. Pinch and twist the ends together. You can secure this loop with a staple or floral wire if you want to commit to this size.

Next, make another loop of equal size on the opposite side. Pinch and twist this loop as well, and again, you can staple to hold it in place. You can make as many loops as you like, but remember that the more loops you make, the fuller your bow will be. Alternate the placement of the loops, making them somewhat opposite each other. Work in whatever shape you want, whether circular or traditional.

Once you have made all the loops you desire, it's time to put a final loop in the centre. Fasten the centre with floral wire or a zip tie, wrapping it tightly around the centre where all the ribbon comes together. You can also use a stapler if your bow is getting unruly! Leave enough spare wire or zip tie to fasten the bow to whatever you desire, such as a wreath, door, banister, or gift.

Securing the bow

Using Wire

Floral wire is a popular choice for securing bows. You can use thin but sturdy wire, such as floral wire, to tightly wrap the centre of the bow where all the loops come together. Twist and tighten the wire to secure the loops in place. Leave some spare wire to fasten the bow to your wedding decor, such as a wreath, chair, or gift box. This method is especially useful for bows made with wired ribbon, as the wire can be easily hidden within the structure of the bow.

Zip Ties

Zip ties are another effective way to secure your bow. Similar to wire, zip ties can be used to tightly bind the centre of the bow, holding all the loops together. Pull the zip tie tight and then trim off the excess with wire cutters. Zip ties are ideal for bows that will be attached to wreaths or other decor items, as they provide a strong and secure hold.

Pipe Cleaners or Chenille Stems

Pipe cleaners, also known as chenille stems, can be used in a similar way to wire or zip ties. Wrap the pipe cleaner around the centre of the bow, twisting and tightening to secure the loops. You can trim any excess pipe cleaner and hide it within the bow. Pipe cleaners are a good option if you want to add a pop of colour to your bow, as they come in various colours that can be matched to your ribbon.

Hot Glue or Floral Tape

For bows that will be attached to a flat surface, such as a gift box or card, you can use hot glue or floral tape to secure the bow in place. Simply add a dot of hot glue or a piece of floral tape to the centre of the bow and press it onto the desired surface. This method ensures your bow stays put and gives a clean, finished look to your wedding decor or gift.

Stapler

In a pinch, a stapler can be used to secure the loops of your bow together. This method may not be as neat or secure as the others, but it can get the job done if you're in a hurry or don't have the right supplies on hand. Simply staple the centre of the bow, holding all the loops together. You can then use wire or ribbon to cover up the staples and give a more polished look.

Adding decorations

Once you've made your bow, you can add decorations to give it a personalised touch. Here are some ideas for simple additions to your bow:

• Add wired, battery-powered fairy lights to your bow. This is a nice touch for a front-door wreath or tree topper.
• If you're making a bow for a gift, cut the ends of the tails diagonally to give them classy points, or perform a chevron cut. Cut an even triangle from the ribbons so that the point of the triangle is in the centre of the tail.
• Tie a charm or bauble in the centre of the ribbon for an extra flourish.
• If you're making a bow for a wreath, you can attach it with matching ribbon. Staple the loose ribbon ends to a piece of cardboard and slide the cardboard over the wreath hanger to keep the ribbon flat.
• For a bow on a gift, you could add a gift tag to the centre of the bow.
• If you're making a bow for a wedding, you could incorporate mesh, tulle, and ribbon roses for a romantic look.

Attaching the bow

Now that you've made your bow, it's time to attach it to your wedding pots. Here are some ways to do that:

Using Wire

You can use wire to attach your bow to your wedding pots. Floral wire is a good option, as it is thin but sturdy and tends to blend in with most wedding decor. Wrap the wire tightly around the center of your bow, leaving enough spare wire to fasten the bow to your pot. This method works well if your pot is made of a material that the wire can easily wrap around, such as metal or plastic.

Using Glue

Another option is to use glue to attach your bow to the pot. A hot glue gun is a good choice for this method. Simply apply the glue to the back of your bow and press it firmly onto the pot. This method works well for a variety of pot materials, including glass, ceramic, and wood.

Using Zip Ties

If your bow is made with a wire-edged ribbon, you can use zip ties to attach it to the pot. Place the zip tie on the back of your bow and tighten it securely before trimming off the excess with wire cutters. This method creates a secure attachment and is especially useful if you want to attach other embellishments to your bow, such as flowers or ribbon roses.

Using Ribbon

If you have extra ribbon, you can use it to tie your bow to the pot. Cut a piece of ribbon and make a knot in the center. Then, use the tails of the ribbon to tie the bow around the center of your pot. This method is simple and effective, especially if your pot has handles or other features that the ribbon can easily wrap around.

Using a Stapler

For a quick and easy attachment method, you can use a stapler. Simply hold your bow in place on the pot and staple it into the material. This method may not be as secure as the others, but it can work in a pinch, especially if you plan to cover the center of your bow with other embellishments.

Frequently asked questions