How to Make a Bow for a Wreath

Don’t be intimated by bows! In this post, you’ll learn how to make a bow for a wreath in no time at all. The instructions also include how to make a burlap bow with no sewing.

Sometimes the simplest things in life are the most rewarding. Who would have thought a person could get such total enjoyment from making a bow? I promise you will be absolutely delighted if you whip up one of these beauties. By following this easy tutorial, you will end up with a lovely and full bow that will definitely take your wreath to the next level. This method involves no sewing. It is perfect for beginners and experienced wreath-makers alike. I’ll share step-by-step pictures, and even answer questions people have. This tutorial will take you from novice to pro in just a few minutes!

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Supplies Needed

• 2 yards of ribbon that is at least 3 inches wide. Wider ribbon can also be used and will give you a softer bow.
  • 4 inch wide burlap ribbon
  • 5 inch wide burlap ribbon
• heavy duty stapler
• Scissors.

Step 3: Fold The Pieces To The Center

Then, bring the ends of the 24-inch piece to the center, overlapping them about an inch. Staple them to the middle of the ribbon and set this piece aside.

Step 4: Fold The Sides Of The 6-inch Ribbon

Now it’s time to prepare the 6-inch long ribbon. Fold the long sides over so they meet in the middle. They should not overlap, just touch.

Step 5: Secure With Staples

Secure the ends of the folded ribbon with one staple each. Then, put this piece aside.

Step 6: Accordion Pleat The Longest Ribbon

Now it’s time to prep the longest ribbon, the 36-inch long one. Make an accordion pleat in the middle of this ribbon.

Step 7: Staple It Together

Place a staple in the pleat to hold it together.

Step 8: Place The Pieces Together

Now we are ready to assemble the pieces together. To start, lay the 6-inch piece wrong side up on a flat surface. Place the 36-inch piece as pictured below. 

Step 9: Add the 24-inch Piece

Next, lay the 24-inch piece wrong side up so it is next to the 36-inch piece. 

Step 10: Center All The Pieces

Now for the fun part! Pull the ends of the 6-inch piece together and straighten the other two pieces so everything is centered. 

Step 11: Staple Everything Together

Finally, place two staples in the 6-inch piece to hold the entire bow together. Trim the excess if desired. 

Step 12: Make A Notched End

If you want, fold the end of each tail in half and trim to make a notched end. When I use heavier fabric, like grain sack, I am not able to use the stapler for the last step. The layers of fabric are too thick and they jam the stapler. A bit of hand stitching is required to hold the pieces together. Below are links to my tutorials for making ribbon from an antique grain sack, and also for making a grain sack bow.