blog

How to Tie a Perfect Holiday Bow

Posted on by sunrise-brumar
07
Nov

Nothing finishes a wreath, porch pot, or gift like a crisp, full bow. Here’s a simple method that works with wired ribbon every time.

You’ll Need

  • 2.5″–4″ wired ribbon (single or double-sided)

  • Floral wire or pipe cleaner

  • Sharp scissors

  • Optional: extra ribbon for tails

Step-by-Step

  1. Cut your tails (optional).
    Snip a 18–24″ piece for tails and set aside. Angle- or dovetail the ends now for a polished look.

  2. Make the center pinch.
    Unroll ribbon and pinch a 2″ section between thumb and forefinger. This is your bow’s center.

  3. Form the first loop.
    Create a 5–7″ loop (matching your project size) and bring the ribbon back to the pinch. Hold tight.

  4. Form the second loop.
    Make an equal loop on the opposite side and pinch. You now have two loops plus the center.

  5. Add more loops (build fullness).
    Repeat, alternating sides, until you have 3–5 loops per side (6–10 total). Slightly increase loop size as you go for a rounded, layered bow.

  6. Secure the bow.
    Wrap floral wire tightly around the center pinch and twist at the back.

  7. Add tails.
    Lay your tail piece behind the bow’s center and capture it with the same wire twist—or cut two short tail strips and wire them in separately.

  8. Fluff like a pro.
    Spread and curve each loop with your fingers; wired edges let you sculpt volume. Adjust tails to frame the bow.

Pro Tips

  • Use wired ribbon for structure and long-lasting shape outdoors.

  • Double up ribbon (two coordinating ribbons stacked) for extra pop.

  • Weatherwise for Annapolis (Zone 7b): wired outdoor ribbon holds shape through our damp, breezy winters—great for door wreaths and porch planters.

  • Common fix: If it looks flat, you need more loops—or bigger loops.

Where to Use It

  • Porch pots & railings

  • Wreaths & mailbox swags

  • Lanterns, garlands, and gift wrap

Swing by Bru-Mar Gardens LLC (1009 Bay Ridge Road, Annapolis) for beautiful wired holiday ribbons, floral wire, and ready-made bows. Download our free Sunrise Marketing app platform for app-only deals—use code Welcome5 for $5 OFF $25+: https://apjl.app/brumar