Bows! And how to make them

Bows are some of the most versatile decorating staples. I like to use them in flower arranging and holiday décor, but they can also be added to hats, clothing, accessories, stuffed animals, anything you want to fancy up a bit. Once you know the technique, you can make them as big or tiny as your project calls for. And those expensive pre-made bows are simple and quick to make at home for much less money! Here's how.

Materials:

Ribbon (preferably wired)

Scissors

Floral wire or thin string (even heavy thread will work)

Directions:

1. Cut your wire or string to about one foot. Set aside.
2. Leave a tail of ribbon a bit longer than you want it to be in the end.
3. Make a loop and hold the ends firmly in one hand.
   
   
   
   
   
4. Twist the ribbon where the center of the bow will be.
   
   
   
5. Make a loop on the other side. Twist. Hold firm in the middle.
6. Repeat until you have as many loops as you desire. (Don't worry about squishing the loops, you can fluff them when you're done!)
7. Cut the other ribbon tail, again, an inch or two longer than you want it to be.
8. Take your wire and lay it across the middle of the bow.
   
   
   
9. Fold it in half and twist the two ends behind the bow. It helps to fold the loops over the wire.
   
   
   
10. The most important part of this is making sure to twist the wire good and tight.
11. Fluff your bow.
    
    
    
12. Trim the ends to the desired length, giving them fancy cut ends if you so desire.
13. Ta da! Done! Use the wire ends to attach to projects or trim short if you want to glue or sew the bow onto something.
    
    
    It seems like a bunch of steps, but once you get the hang of it, you will be able to make these in a matter of minutes!