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

Pew bows are a decorative element often used in wedding ceremonies, adding a touch of glamour to the church or venue where the wedding is taking place. They are usually made with ribbon, tulle, or both, and can be embellished with fresh or artificial flowers. While traditional weddings often feature white pew bows, they can be customised to match the colour theme of the wedding. Making satin pew bows involves cutting and looping satin ribbon, creating a flower-like shape, and securing it with wire. The loops can be adjusted to add dimension and create a fuller look. Pew bows can be attached to the pews using tape, crafting wire, or stick-on hooks.

Choosing the right ribbon

The ribbon is the most important component of your wedding pew bow. It is what will be most visible to your guests and what will determine the overall aesthetic of your bow. Here are some tips to help you choose the right ribbon:

Type of Ribbon

The type of ribbon you choose will depend on the overall look and feel you want to achieve. Satin ribbons are a popular choice for wedding pew bows as they have a smooth, sleek appearance that adds a touch of elegance to the ceremony. They also come in a variety of colours, allowing you to match your ribbon to your wedding theme. Other types of ribbons you can consider include florist satin acetate ribbon, wired faux silk ribbon, wired ribbons, cloth-like ribbons, paper ribbons, and metallic mesh ribbons.

Width of Ribbon

The width of the ribbon will impact the size and shape of your bow. For wedding pew bows, you will typically want a wider ribbon to create a fuller, more dramatic look. Ribbon widths for wedding pew bows typically range from 1 3/8 inch to 4 and 6 inches. You can also combine ribbons of different widths to create a more dimensional bow.

Colour of Ribbon

The colour of the ribbon you choose should complement your wedding colour palette and theme. Traditional wedding colours include white, ivory, and shades of pink. However, you can also opt for more unique colours to make a statement. Consider the colour of your wedding flowers and choose a ribbon that will complement them.

Length of Ribbon

The length of the ribbon will determine the size of your bow and any streamers or tails you wish to add. For wedding pew bows, you will typically need a longer length of ribbon, usually around 50 yds or more. This will allow you to create a large, statement bow that will be visible to your guests.

Texture of Ribbon

The texture of the ribbon can add interest and dimension to your bow. Consider combining ribbons of different textures, such as smooth satin and delicate tulle, to create a unique and captivating look. You can also add other textured elements such as lace, cords, tassels, or fabric to enhance the overall design.

Making the loops

To make the loops for your satin wedding pew bows, you'll need to start by gathering your materials. You'll need a roll of satin ribbon, scissors, and some wire or invisible tape. The ribbon should be approximately six inches thick, and you'll need to cut the ribbon into sections that are 45 inches long—one for each bow.

Now, you can start making the loops. Take one of the 45-inch sections of ribbon and make a loop by holding one end steady and folding the ribbon over on itself. The next loop should be at an angle to the first, not lined up on top of it. To do this, twist the ribbon to the right and create another loop, making sure it's the same size as the first. Continue making loops by twisting the ribbon back and forth to the right and left, holding the centre of each loop as you go. Make about 12 loops in total.

Once you have your loops, you can start shaping them into a bow. Hold the loops steady with one hand in the centre and wrap another strip of ribbon (around 12 inches long) around the middle of the bow, tying a tight knot to keep the loops in place. You can then adjust the loops by pulling on them and fanning them out—pull some forward and some backward to give the bow more dimension.

Now you have the loops for your satin wedding pew bow! You can add further embellishments like flowers or rhinestones, or simply attach the bow to the pew with the wire or invisible tape.

Adding detail to the bow

Once you have created your satin wedding pew bow, you can add some extra details to make it more decorative and personalised. Here are some ideas to enhance the look of your bow:

Embellishments

Add some sparkle to your bow by gluing on rhinestones or other decorative embellishments. You can also incorporate fresh or artificial flowers into the bow. Choose small flowers such as tiny roses, and perhaps add some glitter or silk stems for a creative touch.

Layers

Create layers to your bow by using different types of ribbon or tulle. You can alternate the colours and textures of the ribbon to add interest and dimension. Play around with the loops and lengths of each layer to create a full and luxurious look.

Trims and Cuts

Take a pair of scissors and carefully cut a 3-inch line in the middle of each loop of the bow. Unfold the loops and you will have a decorative trim on the ends of the ribbon. This will create a stylish and unique detail.

Colours

Experiment with different colours of ribbon to match the wedding theme or bridal gown. You can also use coloured ribbon to accent and highlight certain features of the bow. For a more subtle look, use neutral colours such as white or ivory.

Attaching the bow

Now that you have your bow ready, it's time to attach it to the pews. Here are some ways to do that:

Using Tape

Use invisible tape to stick the bow onto the pews. This method is quick and easy, but make sure the tape you are using is strong enough to hold the weight of the bow.

Using Crafting Wire

You can also use crafting wire to tie the bow around the pew and secure it in place. This method is more secure than using tape, especially if you have heavier bows. Twist the wire with a pair of pliers to ensure it is tight and secure.

Using Stick-on Hooks

If you are concerned about the pews being damaged, you can use stick-on hooks. Just make sure to use hooks that are specifically designed to be removed without leaving marks.

Using Florist Wire

Cut florist wire into 6-inch pieces and slip it through the back of the tied bow. Loosely twist the ends closed, creating a loop that can be hung or attached to the pew. This method is useful if you want to be able to easily remove the bows after the ceremony.

Adding flowers

Choosing the Right Flowers:

Select small silk flowers that complement your bridal gown and live flowers. You can opt for classic silk roses or choose flowers adorned with glitter or those with silk stems for added sparkle and texture. If you want to include fresh flowers, consider using them for the first 3-6 rows of seats, as they are more noticeable and will make a statement as you walk down the aisle.

Creating Floral Arrangements:

Arrange the silk flowers into small bouquets for each pew bow. Create visual interest by grouping larger flowers at the back and smaller blooms at the front, similar to how you would arrange a corsage. You can also include a bit of greenery to add volume and create a more natural look.

Combining Flowers with Bows:

Take a length of ribbon and tie it into a bow around the bouquet of silk flowers. Wrap the ribbon twice around the stems to conceal them before tying the bow. Gently pull on the loops of the bow to adjust their length, and trim the stems so that they are barely visible below the ribbon wrap. Secure the bow and flowers together by slipping florist wire through the back of the bow and twisting the ends closed.

Final Touches:

To create a cohesive look, use ribbon with wiring edging to match or accent your bridal gown and flowers. Cut the ribbon into 45-inch sections to create full bows with long ribbon tails. You can also roll up the ribbon tails and loosely secure them with rubber bands to add a nice curl when hanging. This method will also make storing your pew bows more convenient.

Remember to count the number of seats you plan to decorate and calculate the amount of ribbon and flowers needed accordingly. With these tips, you can create elegant and flower-adorned satin pew bows for your wedding!

Frequently asked questions