Decorative Packaging

Making a decorative bow takes practice. Here are some basic steps to get you started:

1. Select your ribbon. Choose a ribbon in the color and width for the type of bow you are trying to create. This will depend upon what you will be putting the bow on, when it is complete.

2. Make sure you have enough ribbon. Package bows require around 45 inches of ribbon per bow.

3. Measure six inches from the end of your 45 inch ribbon. Mark this spot with your left thumb and forefinger. Use your right hand to fold under the next 6 inches of ribbon, making a 3 inch loop that ends at your thumb and forefinger. Hold onto the loop with with your thumb and forefinger.

4. Make a second 3 inch loop in the same manner. Repeat step the loop-making process with two 8 inch, two 9 inch, and two 10 inch lengths of ribbon, making 4, 4.5 and 5 inch loops.

5. Place a piece of floral wire, around 20 inches long, between you left thumb and ribbon loops, make sure the wire is center, with about 10 inches on each side.

6. Use your right hand to bend the floral wire around the back of the ribbon loops and twist it together five times. Trim the excess or use it to secure the bow to the package.

7. Fluff and arrange the bow. Trim the ribbon tails with diagonal cuts.