How to make the perfect bow for your wedding invitations

In this post we show you how to make three different types of bows that can add the perfect finish to a handmade wedding invitation.

Bow 1: The 'Flat Bow'

A flat bow is an easy bow to make; the first effort can prove a little tricky – after that it’s easy!

To make this bow you will need a hole punch, a sharp scissors and ribbon and a little time.

Note: sharp scissors are a must for trimming ribbon ends. Make sure to leave enough ribbon so you can trim the ends again after your bow is tied, if necessary.

Instructions for making this bow

1. Using the hole puncher make two holes side-by-side on the paper.
2. Take the ribbon and put an end through each one of the holes.
3. Pull the flat ribbon all the way through the holes until you have a flat centre in the front.
4. Flip the card over and criss-cross the ribbon on the back; take the ends of the flat ribbon, put them through the opposite hole and pull them back to the front.
5. Cut the ribbon ends at an angle.

The below video (by Invitations by Dawn) gives a visual demonstration:

Bow 2: The 'Winged Ribbon Bow'

The winged ribbon bow is a classic bow, perfect for wedding invitations or favours.

To make it you'll need scissors and a ribbon. 

Note: sharp scissors are a must for trimming ribbon ends. Make sure to leave enough ribbon so you can trim the ends again after your bow is tied, if necessary.

Instructions for making this bow

1. Rap ribbon around the invitation, hold ribbon tight and with your right hand pull the length of ribbon on the left over and under to create a single tie, as you would when tying your shoe.
2. Place thumb of your left hand down to hold the tension, then pull the ribbon length of the right side up to create a loop.
3. Pull the loop over to the right as you use your left hand to take the ribbon length around the loop.
4. Pull ribbon through and under. Then pull up to create a second loop over the first loop.
5. Pull the two loop ends to create an even bow. Tighten the bow to your desired length.
6. Cut the ribbon ends at an angle.

The below video, by Lia Griffith, provides a visual demonstration.

Bow 3: The 'Ribbon Knot'

Perhaps not technically a bow, this ribbon knot is nonetheless a simple and effective way to finish off a wedding invitation.

To make it you will need scissors and ribbon. 

Note: sharp scissors are a must for trimming ribbon ends. Make sure to leave enough ribbon so you can trim the ends again after your bow is tied, if necessary. 

Instructions for making this bow

1. Rap ribbon around the invitation, hold ribbon tight and tie a knot.
2. Cut the ribbon ends at an angle or into a double point finish.

We hope the above post has helped you create the perfect bow! Many of our handmade wedding invitations feature bows - you can take a look at our collection here.