How to Make a Bow Out of Ribbon – (With Pictures)

Making a bow out of ribbon is a fun and easy craft that anyone can learn. Whether you need a bow for a gift, decoration, or hair accessory, this guide will show you exactly how to make a perfect bow every time.

In this post, you’ll learn:

• Different types of bows you can make
• Step-by-step instructions for each bow style
• Best ribbons to use
• Tips for making your bows look professional
• Common mistakes to avoid

Let’s get started!

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Types of Bows You Can Make

Before we begin, let’s look at the different types of bows you can create with ribbon:

1. Classic Bow – Perfect for gifts and decorations.
2. Floral Bow – Great for wreaths and floral arrangements.
3. Pom-Pom Bow – A fluffy, round bow for hair clips and crafts.
4. Looped Bow – A fancy bow with multiple loops.
5. Korker Bow – A curly, fun bow often used in hair accessories.

Now, let’s learn how to make each one.

Do you want to know How to Fold a Fitted Sheet Perfectly?

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How to Make a Classic Bow

A classic bow is simple and elegant. Here’s how to make it:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Ribbon (1-inch to 2-inch width works best)
• Scissors
• Wire or string (to secure the bow)

Steps:

1. Cut the Ribbon – Cut a piece of ribbon about 24 inches long.
2. Create Two Loops – Hold the ribbon and make a loop on each side, like bunny ears.
3. Cross the Loops – Take the right loop and cross it over the left loop.
4. Tie a Knot – Pull the right loop under the left loop to form a knot in the center.
5. Adjust the Loops – Pull the loops to tighten and fluff them out.
6. Trim the Ends – Cut the ends at an angle or in a “V” shape for a neat look.

Your classic bow is ready!

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How to Make a Floral Bow

A floral bow has more loops and looks fuller. Follow these steps:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Wired ribbon (helps hold shape)
• Scissors
• Floral wire

Steps:

1. Cut the Ribbon – Use about 30 inches of ribbon.
2. Make the First Loop – Hold one end and make a small loop, pinching it at the base.
3. Create More Loops – Continue making loops of the same size, alternating sides.
4. Secure with Wire – Wrap floral wire around the center to hold all loops together.
5. Fluff the Loops – Adjust each loop to make the bow look full and even.

Now you have a beautiful floral bow!

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How to Make a Pom-Pom Bow

Pom-pom bows are fluffy and cute. Here’s how to make one:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Thin ribbon (1/4 inch to 1/2 inch wide)
• Scissors
• Cardboard (for wrapping)

Steps:

1. Wrap the Ribbon – Take a small piece of cardboard and wrap the ribbon around it 10-15 times.

1. Slide Off the Cardboard – Carefully remove the wrapped ribbon from the cardboard.
2. Tie the Middle – Use a small piece of ribbon to tie the center tightly.

1. Cut the Loops – Snip the loops on both ends to create the pom-pom effect.
2. Fluff the Bow – Gently separate the strands to make it look full.

Your pom-pom bow is done!

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How to Make a Looped Bow

A looped bow has multiple layers for a fancy look.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Wired ribbon
• Scissors
• Hot glue (optional)

Steps:

1. Cut the Ribbon – Use two pieces of ribbon (one long, one short).
2. Make Loops – Fold the long ribbon into loops, securing each with a small dab of glue.
3. Layer the Loops – Stack the loops on top of each other, gluing them in the center.
4. Add the Short Ribbon – Wrap the short ribbon around the center to hide the glue.

Now you have a stunning looped bow!

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How to Make a Korker Bow

Korker bows have curly ribbons and are super fun.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Grosgrain ribbon
• Wooden dowel
• Oven or heat source
• Clips

Steps:

1. Wrap the Ribbon – Wind the ribbon tightly around a wooden dowel.
2. Secure the Ends – Use clips to hold the ribbon in place.
3. Heat the Ribbon – Bake in the oven at 250°F for 20-25 minutes to set the curls.
4. Cool and Remove – Let it cool, then slide the ribbon off the dowel.
5. Assemble the Bow – Cut the curled ribbon into pieces and tie them together in the center.

Your korker bow is ready to use!

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Best Ribbons for Making Bows

Not all ribbons work the same. Here are the best types:

• Satin Ribbon – Smooth and shiny, great for gifts.
• Grosgrain Ribbon – Textured, holds shape well.
• Wired Ribbon – Stiff, perfect for floral bows.
• Sheer Ribbon – Light and elegant for decorations.
• Burlap Ribbon – Rustic look, good for crafts.

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Tips for Making Perfect Bows

1. Use Sharp Scissors – Clean cuts make a neat bow.
2. Choose the Right Width – Thicker ribbons (1-2 inches) work best for big bows.
3. Secure Tightly – Always tie or glue the center well so it doesn’t come loose.
4. Fluff the Loops – Adjust each loop to make the bow look full.
5. Practice Makes Perfect – The more you make, the better you’ll get!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the Wrong Ribbon – Flimsy ribbon won’t hold shape.
• Cutting Too Short – Longer ribbon gives more room to work.
• Not Securing the Center – Bows can fall apart if not tied tightly.
• Uneven Loops – Make sure loops are the same size for balance.

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FAQs About Making Bows

1. What is the easiest bow to make?

The classic bow is the easiest. Just make two loops and tie them together.

2. How do I make a bow stay in place?

Use wire, hot glue, or double-sided tape to secure it.

3. Can I make a bow without wire?

Yes, but wired ribbon holds shape better.

4. What ribbon is best for hair bows?

Grosgrain or satin ribbon works best for hair accessories.

5. How do I make a big bow?

Use wider ribbon (2-3 inches) and make larger loops.

6. Why does my bow look messy?

You might not be securing the center tightly enough. Try using glue or wire.

7. Can I reuse a bow?

Yes, if it’s not glued, you can untie and reuse it.

8. How long should the ribbon be for a bow?

For a small bow, 12-18 inches. For a big bow, 24-36 inches.

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Final Thoughts

Now you know how to make a bow out of ribbon in different styles! Whether for gifts, decorations, or hair accessories, bows add a special touch. Practice these techniques, and soon you’ll be making perfect bows every time.

Which bow will you try first? Let us know in the comments!