Making an Easy Bow

Many wreaths come with limp, lazy bows that require replacing–think Boy Scout wreaths–(I love Boy Scouts and their wreaths, but the bows….ugh!)

Here’s how I make bows that have a little spunk in them…

SUPPLIES:For large outdoor wreaths, I use wired edge ribbon that is 1-1/2 inches -2 inches wide.  ( A 25-foot roll usually yields 2 bows.)  The wired edge puts the spunk in the bow-keeps it from losing it’s shape as it faces the winter weather.  I also prefer wire to tie the center.  Many florist wires come with a built in cutter–no need to find wire cutters (or ruin your mother’s sewing scissors–ahem…).  Scissors-for cutting the ribbon (not the wire–see above.)

TO MAKE THE BOW: Hold the center of the ribbon and accordion loops of ribbon to the right and to the left.  Usually 5-7 loops in each direction will do the trick.  Leave a small tail and tie with a 20 inch piece of wire.  (The long wire tails will be used to attach to the wreath.)  Add a tail to the bow if you like.  More directions here.

Attach the bow to the wreath with the long wire tails…

Hang your wreath…and step back to enjoy…

I like how a wreath always says “Welcome!”.