Guide To Tying A Perfect Ribbon Bow On Wedding Cake

Tying a fibbon bow on a wedding cake is a great way to add a decorative touch to your special day. It can be a tricky process, but with practice, you can master the skill and create elegant bows that complement your wedding theme. The first step is to choose the right type of ribbon, such as satin, grosgrain, or organza, that will hold its shape well and create a luxurious look. Then, you need to measure and cut the ribbon to fit around the cake, adding a little extra length for overlap. The next step is to secure the ribbon around the cake using piping gel or double-sided tape, ensuring it is smooth and straight. To create the bow, you can follow a bunny ears method, forming loops and securing them with another piece of ribbon or double-sided tape. Finally, you can trim the ends of the ribbon for a neat finish. With these steps and some practice, you'll be well on your way to creating beautiful fibbon bows for your wedding cake!

Choosing the right ribbon

When choosing a ribbon to decorate your wedding cake, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the type of ribbon you use is important. Fabric ribbons such as silk, grosgrain, velvet, or satin are popular choices, but they can absorb moisture and grease from buttercream icing, resulting in unsightly stains. To prevent this, you can back the ribbon with a non-absorbent material like waxed or contact paper, or use a textured ribbon that doesn't show signs of grease absorption. Another option is to use edible ribbons made from gumpaste or fondant, which can be used with both fondant and buttercream cakes.

The width of the ribbon will also impact the overall look of your bow. Generally, wider ribbons create larger, more dramatic bows, while narrower ribbons are better suited for smaller, delicate bows or for creating multiple loops and twists. If you're using a wired ribbon, keep in mind that the wire will allow you to mould the ribbon into a more structured and dramatic shape.

When selecting the colour of your ribbon, consider the overall theme and colour palette of your wedding. You can choose a shade that complements the sugar flowers, buttercream, or icing on your cake, or opt for a contrasting colour to make a bold statement. Hand-dyed silk ribbons are a popular choice for adding a touch of luxury and can be custom-dyed to match your desired shade.

Finally, the length of the ribbon will depend on the size of your cake and the desired size of your bow. As a general rule, it's better to start with a longer ribbon and trim it as needed, rather than having a ribbon that's too short. Remember to add a little extra length to account for overlapping when wrapping the ribbon around your cake.

Preparing the cake

Once you have chosen your ribbon, measure it against the cake, adding an extra half-inch to the circumference, so the ribbon can overlap. Cut the ribbon to the required length. You can use scissors to trim the ends neatly, either diagonally or in a 'V' shape. If you are using a slippery material, such as satin, you may wish to seal the ends of the ribbon with a lighter to prevent fraying.

Before adding the ribbon, prepare the cake by creating a straight crumb coat. Use a side scraper to achieve a smooth finish. Then, brush a thin coat of piping gel around the base of the cake and allow it to dry until it is slightly tacky. This will act as an adhesive for the ribbon.

Now, carefully wrap the ribbon around the cake, ensuring it is smooth and straight. Brush a small amount of piping gel on one end of the ribbon and overlap the ends at the back of the cake.

At this point, you can add double-sided tape to the centre of the overlapped area and attach a pre-made bow, or you can create a bow by hand.

Attaching the ribbon

Choosing the Right Ribbon

The first step is to select a ribbon that complements your wedding theme and colour scheme. Popular options include satin, grosgrain, organza, twine, and lace. Consider the texture and thickness of the ribbon, as well as its ability to hold its shape and form bows. Satin, for example, is shiny and smooth, giving an elegant look, while grosgrain has a ribbed texture for a more rustic feel.

Preparing the Ribbon

Before attaching the ribbon to your cake, measure its circumference and add about half an inch to the length to allow for overlap. Cut the ribbon accordingly. You can also cut the ribbon for the bow at this stage, making it as long as you desire the loops to be. If you are using a slippery material, such as satin, you may want to lightly burn the ends of the ribbon with a lighter to prevent fraying.

Start by brushing a thin coat of piping gel around the base of the cake. Allow it to dry until slightly tacky, then carefully wrap the ribbon around the cake, ensuring it is smooth and straight. Overlap the ends of the ribbon at the back of the cake and secure them with a small amount of piping gel.

Creating the Bow

To make the loops of the bow, take the pre-cut piece of ribbon and place a small piece of double-sided tape in the centre. Fold the ribbon to create the loops, and secure them with another piece of tape. Cut a separate, smaller piece of ribbon and fold the ends neatly. Attach this piece to the centre of the bow with double-sided tape.

Attaching the Bow to the Cake

Use a small piece of double-sided tape to fasten the completed bow to the front of the cake. Ensure it covers the seam of the ribbon wrapped around the cake.

Tips for a Perfect Finish

• If you are attaching the ribbon to a buttercream cake, consider using clear packaging tape or wax paper on the back of the ribbon to prevent grease stains.
• For a double bow, cut an extra piece of ribbon, slightly longer than the first, and follow the same steps.
• Practice tying the bow beforehand to perfect your technique.
• Use a sharp pair of scissors to cut the ribbon ends diagonally or in a 'V' shape for a neat and professional finish.

By following these steps and choosing the right materials, you can create a stunning wedding cake with a perfectly tied ribbon bow.

Tying the bow

Tying the perfect bow on your wedding cake is a tricky but satisfying endeavour. It's important to choose the right ribbon for the occasion. Satin is a popular choice for weddings, as it has a shiny and smooth finish, but there are many other options to choose from, including grosgrain, organza, twine, and lace.

Before you begin, prepare your cake by applying a crumb coat with a side scraper, and then cover it with fondant or buttercream.

Now, measure the ribbon. It should be long enough to go around the cake with some extra length for a bow. Cut the ribbon to the desired length. Brush a thin coat of piping gel around the base of the cake and let it dry until slightly tacky. This will help the ribbon adhere smoothly to the cake. Wrap the ribbon around the cake, ensuring it is straight and smooth, and secure it by brushing a little piping gel on one end and overlapping the ends at the back of the cake.

To create the bow, cut another piece of ribbon to your desired length for the loops. Place a small piece of double-sided tape in the centre and fold in the ribbons to form the loops. Secure another piece of double-sided tape in the centre of the bow and cut a smaller piece of ribbon to go around the middle, neatly folding in the ends. Attach the bow to the front of the cake with a small piece of double-sided tape.

And there you have it! A beautifully tied ribbon and bow on your wedding cake.

Finishing touches

Now that you've chosen your ribbon and tied your bow, there are a few final steps to ensure your wedding cake looks absolutely perfect.

Firstly, decide where you want the overlap of the ribbon to be. Some people prefer to have the overlap at the back of the cake, while others use the bow to hide the overlap at the front. If you're going for the latter, you can secure the bow with a small piece of double-sided tape.

If you're using a brooch or other embellishment, now is the time to attach it. You can use a hot glue gun or, for an easier option, a glue dot. Position the brooch in the centre of the bow, pressing down firmly so that it holds in place.

Finally, if you're happy with the positioning of your bow, you can secure the ribbon ends with a lighter. Simply pass the flame gently over the ends to seal them and prevent fraying. Be careful not to burn the ribbon!

Your wedding cake is now complete and ready to be displayed and enjoyed!

Frequently asked questions