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

Pew bows are a decorative touch often used in wedding ceremonies, adding glamour and festivity to the occasion. They can be made and placed on the pews in the days leading up to the wedding or even on the day itself, provided you have the right tools and instructions. This includes materials like ribbon, tulle, scissors, invisible tape, and crafting wire. The process involves creating loops with the ribbon, securing them in the centre, and then attaching the bow to the pew with tape or wire. You can also make tulle pew bows, which involve a similar process of creating loops and securing them with twist ties.

Gathering materials for a traditional bow

• A roll of ribbon, approximately six inches thick. The ribbon can be shimmering sheer or wired, depending on your preference.
• Scissors, to cut the ribbon and create the loops.
• Invisible tape, to stick the finished bow onto the pew. Alternatively, you can use crafting wire to tie the bow around the pew.

With these materials, you can begin to make the loops that will form the basis of your traditional pew bow.

Making the first loop

Start by gathering your materials. You will need a roll of ribbon that is approximately six inches thick, as well as some scissors and invisible tape. It is important to have all the necessary materials ready before you begin.

Now, take your ribbon and cut a length of three yards (2.74 meters). This length of ribbon will create a loop, which forms the basis of your bow. Hold one end of the ribbon steady and fold the ribbon over itself to create a loop. It is important to hold the loop steady with your index finger and thumb. This will ensure that the loop is secure and does not slip.

At this point, you can create the next loop. Twist the remaining ribbon to the right and fold another loop, ensuring that it is the same size as the first. This loop should be at an angle to the first loop, not lined up or stacked on top. Again, hold this loop steady with your index finger and thumb.

By following these steps, you will create the foundation for your wedding pew bow. The first loop is crucial as it sets the size and angle for the subsequent loops, so take your time and ensure that it is secure and properly formed. With the first loop in place, you can continue building the rest of the bow, creating a beautiful and elegant decoration for your wedding pews.

The first loop is the starting point for your bow, and it is important to get it right. With these steps, you can create a consistent and well-formed bow that will impress your wedding guests and enhance the beauty of your ceremony.

Creating the next loop

Now you've made your first loop, it's time to create the next one. This next loop must be at an angle to the first loop, rather than lined up and on top of it. To do this, you need to twist the remaining ribbon to the right and then fold another loop in the ribbon. This second loop should be the same size as the first loop and the centre of the loop should line up with the first loop's centre. Hold the second loop with the same index finger and thumb that you used to hold the first loop.

Continue making loops in the ribbon by twisting the remaining ribbon back and forth to the right and left. Remember to hold the centre of each loop every time you form a new one. Make about 12 loops in total.

Adding detail to the bow

Once you have made your basic bow, you can add some extra details to make it more interesting and unique. Here are some ideas:

Cutting the Loops

Take a pair of scissors and fold the end of each loop in half vertically. Cut a 3-inch line in the middle of the bow and unfold it. You will notice a new detail on the ends of the loops, giving the bow a different look.

Adding Embellishments

Add a beautiful rhinestone or other decorative embellishment to the centre of the bow to make it more glamorous. You could also use a different colour of ribbon in the middle of the bow to add extra colour and detail.

Fan Out the Loops

Adjust the loops by pulling on them and fanning them out. Pull some forward and some backward to give the bow more dimension and make it look fuller.

Making a tulle bow

To make a tulle bow, you will need tulle, ribbon, and some wire to secure it. Tulle is best bought by the roll, and you will need a spool with at least 100 yards. The amount of tulle you need will depend on the size of your bow. For an 8" bow, you will need 3.5 yards, for a 12" bow, you will need 4.5 yards, and for a 16" bow, you will need 6 yards.

First, cut the ribbon in half and create a series of loops, each one slightly bigger than the last, until you have a flower shape. This will be the base of your bow. Cut the tail to your desired length and hold the bow tightly. Now, take the tulle and create another set of loops in the same way, this will be the second layer of your bow. Finally, use the full width of the ribbon to create a third layer of loops. Once you are happy with the shape of your bow, cut the streamers to your desired length. Secure the bow and streamers with wire, and you're done! You can add some fresh flowers to the bow for extra decoration.

Storing tulle bows is best done by hanging them on a curtain rod or hanger. Do not store them in bags as this can cause creases and flatten the bows.

Frequently asked questions