Creating Rustic Wedding Bows With Burlap: A Step-By-Step Guide

Burlap bows are a staple in rustic décor, adding a personal touch to wreaths and DIY projects. Making your own burlap bows is a cost-effective way to add a rustic charm to weddings, and they can be made in just a few minutes. The process is simple: cut a piece of burlap ribbon, fold it into loops, secure the centre with twine or wire, and then fluff and shape the loops. You can also add tails to the bow by cutting another piece of ribbon and attaching it to the back of the bow. This versatile technique can be applied to other types of ribbons as well, and the final product can be used to decorate wreaths, gifts, or home décor.

Choosing the right burlap ribbon

Burlap ribbon is a versatile material that can be used in a variety of ways to create beautiful wedding decorations. When choosing the right burlap ribbon for your project, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, consider the type of project you are working on. Plain burlap ribbon is a good choice for a variety of projects, while printed burlap ribbon can add a decorative element. Wired burlap ribbon is ideal for creating bows and other intricate designs. The size of your project will also determine the width and length of the ribbon you need. For example, if you are making a wreath, you will need a longer length of ribbon than if you are creating a chair sash.

Second, think about the colour and texture of the ribbon. Burlap ribbon comes in a variety of colours, including natural, beige, yellow, red, green, and fuchsia pink. The texture of the ribbon can vary as well, with some ribbons having a tighter weave than others. The colour and texture you choose will depend on the overall look you are trying to achieve.

Third, consider the quality of the ribbon. High-quality burlap ribbon will be durable and have a nice texture. JAM Paper, for example, offers a wide selection of high-quality burlap ribbon options.

Finally, don't forget to consider the price. Burlap ribbon can vary in price depending on the retailer and the quality of the ribbon. Compare prices between different stores and online sellers to find the best deal.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the right burlap ribbon for your wedding bows and create beautiful, elegant decorations.

Cutting the ribbon to size

If you're crafting a bow for a wreath, it's suggested to cut the ribbon to a length of 24 inches for an 8-inch-wide bow. For a tree topper, a larger bow measuring 12-18 inches wide is more suitable, so you'd need to cut the ribbon to a length of 36-54 inches.

When cutting the ribbon, it's important to consider the type of bow you want to create. For a simple bow with two loops on each side, you can cut the ribbon to the desired length and begin folding. However, if you're making a multi-layered bow, you'll need to cut multiple pieces of ribbon in varying lengths to create the different layers.

In addition to the size and style of the bow, the type of ribbon you use will also influence the cutting process. Wired burlap ribbon, for example, can be easier to shape and manipulate, so you may not need to cut it to a specific length before starting to form the loops.

Once you've determined the size, style, and type of ribbon, you can begin cutting the ribbon to the desired length. It's recommended to use sharp scissors to ensure clean cuts and avoid fraying.

Folding the ribbon to create loops

Now that you've gathered your supplies, it's time to start creating your burlap bow. This section will focus on folding the ribbon to create loops, which will form the basis of your bow. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Prepare the Ribbon: Cut your burlap ribbon to the desired length, considering the size of the bow you want. If you're making a medium-sized bow, a length of about 24 inches is a good starting point. For longer tails or a fuller bow, adjust the length accordingly. You can always cut the ribbon longer and trim it down later if needed.
• Create the Loops: Lay the ribbon flat on your work surface. Start by folding the ribbon back and forth to create two loops on each side. Ensure that the loops are even in size for a symmetrical bow.
• Pinch the Center: Once you have your loops, pinch the center of the ribbon where all the loops meet. This will help you hold the loops in place as you secure them.
• Secure the Center: Using your floral wire or zip tie, tightly wrap it around the center of the ribbon where you've pinched it. This will be the middle of your bow and will hold all the loops together. You can also use twine or a pipe cleaner for this step if you prefer.
• Fluff and Shape: Gently pull apart and fluff the loops to create a full and even bow. Adjust the loops as needed to ensure they are symmetrical and have a pleasing shape. You can also slightly adjust the loops to create the desired amount of fullness.
• Create the Tails: If you want to add tails to your bow, cut another piece of ribbon. The length of the tails can vary depending on your preference, but a standard range is between 12 and 18 inches. Fold this piece of ribbon in half to find the center, then attach it to the back of the bow at the center point using the same wire, zip tie, or twine.
• Finish the Tails: For an added decorative touch, cut the ends of the tails at an angle or in a "V" shape. This will give your bow a polished and detailed look.

By following these steps, you've now created the loops and structure of your burlap bow. The next steps will involve attaching the bow to your desired surface, such as a wreath, and making any final adjustments to ensure your bow looks perfect. Remember, the beauty of a handmade bow lies in its unique character, so don't worry too much about making it perfect. Enjoy the process, and your guests will surely admire your handiwork!

Securing the centre with wire or twine

Securing the centre of your burlap bow with wire or twine is a crucial step in the bow-making process. This step ensures that your bow holds together and maintains its shape. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to secure the centre of your burlap bow:

Firstly, gather your materials. You will need burlap ribbon, wire or twine, and a pair of scissors. Cut a length of burlap ribbon, ensuring it is long enough to create your desired bow size. The length will depend on the size of the bow you wish to make. For a medium-sized bow, a length of 24 inches is recommended, but you can adjust this measurement if you desire longer tails or a fuller bow.

Now, lay the ribbon flat on your work surface and begin to create the loops of your bow. Fold the ribbon back and forth to form two loops on each side, ensuring they are even in size. You can create more loops for a fuller bow, but make sure they are all uniform in size. Once you are happy with the number of loops, pinch the centre of the ribbon where all the loops meet to hold them in place.

This brings us to the crucial step of securing the centre. Take your wire or twine and tightly wrap it around the centre of the ribbon where you have pinched it. You can also use a zip tie for this step. Make sure to tie a super tight knot to secure the centre of your bow. If you are using wire, twist the ends together and leave them hanging. You can also wrap the centre of the bow with an additional piece of burlap and fasten it at the back with the wire.

Now, you can adjust the loops and shape your bow. Gently pull apart the loops and fluff them to create a full and symmetrical bow. You can also cut another piece of ribbon for the tails if you wish. Attach this piece to the back of the bow at the centre point using wire or a zip tie. Finally, cut the ends of the tails at an angle or in a "V" shape for added detail.

And there you have it! You have successfully secured the centre of your burlap bow with wire or twine. You can now attach your bow to a wreath, gift, or any other decorative item. Feel free to make any final adjustments to ensure your bow looks perfect. Enjoy your beautiful, handmade creation!

Adding tails to the bow

Step 1: Cut the Ribbon

Cut a piece of burlap ribbon for the tails. The length of the tails can vary depending on your preference, but typically they range from 12 to 18 inches. If you want longer tails, feel free to cut the ribbon accordingly.

Step 2: Find the Center

Fold the ribbon for the tails in half to find the center point. This will help you attach it to the back of the bow later.

Step 3: Attach the Tails

Using the same wire or zip tie that you used to secure the center of the bow, attach the tails to the back of the bow at the center point. Make sure it's securely fastened so that the tails don't slip out.

Step 4: Trim the Ends

Cut the ends of the tails to give them a finished look. You can cut them straight across, or for added detail, cut them at an angle or in a "V" shape.

Step 5: Adjust and Fluff

Now that the tails are attached, take a step back and look at your bow. Adjust the loops and tails as needed to ensure they are symmetrical and full. You can also gently pull apart and fluff the loops to give the bow a more voluminous and elegant appearance.

Adding tails to your burlap bow is a simple way to elevate its look and make it more versatile. You can use this technique for wreaths, gift wrapping, or any other decorative project you have in mind. Feel free to experiment with different lengths and styles of tails to find the look that best suits your creation.

Frequently asked questions