How to Make Ribbon Bows – Classic, Double and Pom-Pom Bows

How to make ribbon bows: the easiest way is the classic bow – two loops and two tails tied with a double knot. For fuller decoration, a double or pom-pom bow is made from several loops cinched in the middle with wire or thread and covered with a narrow ribbon. The result depends above all on the choice of ribbon – dense ribbons hold their shape, while soft ones drape freely.

Which ribbon to choose for bows

Before you start, think about the shape you want to achieve. The same technique gives very different results depending on the material:

• Double-face satin – glossy and soft, the bow drapes elegantly. The most versatile for gifts, clothing and hair.
• Grosgrain – matte and ribbed, holds its shape, the loops stand upright. Ideal for hair clips and modern packaging.
• Organza – light and sheer, gives an airy effect. Suitable for pom-pom bows for decoration.
• Velvet – dense and matte, for festive and winter decoration.
• Wired-edge ribbon – there is a thin wire along the edges, so the loops can be shaped and stay in the desired position. Handy for Christmas tree bows and wreaths.

For decorating clothing and hair accessories, choose ribbons that withstand washing – polyester ones are the most durable. You will find all types in the ribbons section.

Materials needed

• ribbon of a suitable width;
• sharp fabric scissors;
• needle and thread in the colour of the ribbon, or thin wire;
• a lighter or hot knife for sealing the ends of synthetic ribbons;
• hot glue or a hair clip/brooch base if the bow is to be attached.

How to make ribbon bows – the classic bow

1. Cut ribbon about 4–5 times the desired width of the finished bow.
2. Form two equal loops, holding the ribbon right side out.
3. Cross the loops – left over right – and pass the left one under and through the opening, as when tying shoelaces.
4. Tighten gradually, pulling both loops at the same time so that the knot stays small and centred.
5. Even out the loops and tails. Cut the tails at an angle or with a V notch.
6. Seal the ends of synthetic ribbon by bringing them close to a flame for a moment.

Double bow

A double bow has two tiers of loops and looks richer. It is suitable for gifts, hair clips and clothing decoration.

1. Fold the ribbon into a "figure of eight", crossing in the centre – first two larger loops.
2. On top of them, form another figure of eight with slightly shorter loops.
3. Pinch the centre and secure it with a few stitches or with wire.
4. Cover the centre with a short piece of ribbon wrapped around it and glued or sewn at the back.
5. Add a separate piece for hanging tails if you like.

Pom-pom bow for gifts

A pom-pom (florist's) bow is typical of large gifts, hampers and decoration. It is made from a long piece of ribbon, usually 2–3 metres at a width of about 25 mm.

1. Make a small loop in the centre – this will be the core.
2. Continue making loops, each slightly larger than the last and turned 180°, so that the right side stays outwards.
3. After 8–12 loops, cinch the centre with wire passed through the middle loop.
4. Open the loops one by one, twisting them in different directions to create a round shape.

Tips for hair and clothing bows

Hair bows must be securely sewn, not just glued, because they are worn and washed. Use a hair clip or elastic base sewn to the centre. For small bows on children's clothing, prefer narrow ribbons of 3 to 10 mm and sew them with a few stitches through the knot so they do not come undone. For babywear, avoid long hanging tails. In lingerie, small satin bows are sewn at the centre of the neckline or waist.

Christmas tree bows and seasonal decoration

For Christmas decorations, wired-edge ribbons, velvet and organza in metallic shades are the most suitable. The wire allows the loops to be shaped and not droop even when hanging on a branch. It is convenient to prepare all the bows in advance with the same length of ribbon, for example 50–60 cm for a medium bow, so that they look the same all over the tree. Attach them with thin green wire passed through the centre, which is wrapped around the branch and is almost invisible. For outdoor decoration, choose polyester ribbons – they withstand moisture and do not lose their colour as quickly.

Common mistakes

• The ribbon is wrong side out in one of the loops – with single-face satin the difference is immediately visible.
• Ribbon too short – the loops become small and the tails do not reach.
• Ribbon too soft for a large bow – the loops droop. For volume, choose grosgrain or wired-edge ribbon.
• Unsealed ends – synthetic ribbon frays within days.

Bows in series production

When bows are part of clothing or packaging in large volumes, hand tying is not practical. Bows are then made in advance, with the same size and attachment, and delivered ready for sewing or gluing on. This guarantees a consistent look and saves time on the factory floor. When ordering, specify the type of ribbon, the width, the size of the finished bow and the method of attachment. For bows on clothing, satin ribbon is the most suitable, and for sturdy hair clips – grosgrain ribbon.

Ribbons and ready-made bows from Polkom

Polkom is a Bulgarian manufacturer of haberdashery and accessories for fashion, furniture, footwear and bags, with over 30 years of experience and deliveries across the EU. If you need ribbons on reels or ready-made bows for production, send us the details via the contact page – we will suggest material, colour and a sample.