In 1993, I traveled 3,000 miles to learn how to make a bow, but today learning is much easier for you. This video makes creating this beautiful gift and basket topper super simple from your computer chair. Let this tutorial be your mentor.
Tips for Making Bows
Creating bows from ribbon takes time and patience, especially when you’re new at this craft. The main products that make a bow are ribbon, 1-1/2 inches to 3 inches in width, and a short piece of curling ribbon to tie your bow together in the center.
There are several bowmaking methods. One is shown in the video above, which professionals call making a bow “from scratch.” Another option is to purchase a bowmaking machine available at craft stores.
The third option is to buy pull bows, which are bows premade for you. A pull bow takes shape as you pull the curling ribbon that’s wound alongside the bow ribbon. Instructions to guide you are included with each pull bow. You’ll find pull bows at party stores.
You have many options from which to choose when selecting the ribbon for your bow:
Want more information about ribbon and bows? Visit the ribbon page at GiftBasketBusiness.com.
Watch other videos by choosing from Categories in the right column.

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The ribbon bow video was very easy to follow. Very easy for anyone to do………….
Hello Karen,
I’m glad the bow was easy for you to re-create. Glad you visited the site and provided feedback.
Wishing you the best.
I’m looking for this for a while. Thanks so much! It’s really clear.
It seems you used wired ribbon, is that correct? Do you think this would work with a cotton or organza ribbon? Would the loops stay away?
Hi Esti,
You’re correct, wired ribbon is used to show how to make this bow style.
Cotton or organza ribbon that does not contain wire may not yield the same results. I find that organza ribbon is a bit floppy and won’t look at full as what’s shown in the video.
Try it yourself. You may be pleased with what you create.
My mom always made beautiful bows, and whenever I needed one I would call her up and beg for a bow. Until one day she taught me the secret. Wrap the ribbon around a small book or box. That makes all your loops the same and more professional!
Jennie,
How wonderful that your mom shared her secret with you.
Now the two of you can compare the beautiful bows you make while enjoying the happy expressions on the faces of people who receive your elegant gifts.
Hi Shirely,
I came across your website today and i am very glad i did. I have been looking for bow making tutorials everywhere but couldnt find anything that was clear and actually showed a step by step guide. But now that i have seen your video i would like to say it was a pleasure watching it. Not only have i finally learnt how to make these beautiful bows, i have also discovered a wonderful website. You are also a great tutor and you made it look so easy – thank you for putting this video up!
I am from the UK and am am setting up a gift basket business, at the moment im still in the early stages and i must congratulate you on a lovely website with so much information.
I would just like to ask – what kind of ribbon did you use? I have read on here that it was wired ribbon – im not too sure what that means and where can i get it from. Im guessing that if i used orgazna ribbon or satin ribbon it wouldnt work? Does wired ribbon mean that there are wires on the edges of the ribbon? I would really appreciate your help and once again thank you so much.
Regards,
Hannah
Hi Hannah,
Welcome to the site, and I’m so glad that the bowmaking video was helpful.
The ribbon used in the video is a wired ribbon, and you’re right that there is thin wire on each side of the ribbon. That helps to shape into an attractive appearance on the gift.
Non-wired polyester ribbon is the next best type of product to make this bow.
You’ll find more help for your business at http://www.GiftBasketBusiness.com.
Best wishes to you.
A lovely video – thank you very much!
I just have one question, above you stated that you used wired ribbon.
I dont always find it easy to purchase wired ribbon down my end of the world, i wanted to ask can any other ribbons be used to make f bows? Such as organza, satin, etc. If yes, would you be so kind to post a video on this?
I have been searching for a very long time but cannot find anything that is as wonderful as the bows you make and also so clear to understand.
Obviously, it doesnt have to be the same looking bow, perhaps something else that looks attractive. I have piles and piles of normal organza ribbon I just do not know how to use it.
I look forward to your reply, and perhaps a video to help my dilemma.
Best Wishes,
Jerzy
Hi Shirley,
What a great video! I’ve made gift baskets for friends and family and just did a basic bow. Now I’m doing a basket for my dad’s boss and they’re paying me for it. I thought I should step it up a bit and make it fancier. Your video was so easy and very helpful. Thank you so much!
Happy Holidays!
Aimee