How to Tie The Perfect Bow

December 16, 2022

Lifestyle

Nesha Ruther

Writer at Bond & Grace

The Holidays are upon us, the time of year where we show the people in our lives just how much we love them. And while it may be the thought that counts, you want that thought to look nice upon presentation. Yet for the less coordinated among us, gift wrapping remains an elusive art year after year.

Sick of saying, “I promise It’s better than it looks!” every time you give your friends and family a gift? One way to level your wrapping abilities is by adding a ribbon. Not only will it add an elegant touch to the gift, but ribbons are highly versatile, and your loved one can continue to use it well after the holidays. From trying back hair to elevating an outfit, a ribbon is a little extra present in and of itself.

Here are some surprisingly easy methods to get the perfect bow every time, so your family can be as excited when they see the gift under the tree, as they are once it’s unwrapped.

The Standard Bow

‍

Take a length of colorful ribbon and wrap it around your gift, making sure there is ample room to tie your bow.

Tie the first knot, making sure the ribbon is flush against the box.

Arrange the tails of the ribbon so one is above the knot, and the other is below. Keep a finger on the knot for stability.

Make your first loop with the lower ribbon.

Wrap the upper ribbon around the loop and tuck it through the knot, so that it forms a second loop.

‍

Adjust the bow and tails so everything is tight and even, and there you are. The perfect bow! For an extra touch of elegance fold the tails of the ribbon in half and trim at an angle.

‍

The Cat’s Cradle

For a slightly more elevated and unique method of tying a ribbon, using only your fingers, try the Cat’s Cradle.
‍

Begin with a length of thin ribbon, about arm’s length. Drape it over the length of your fingers. Weave the ribbon over and under your index and middle fingers, so that it should look a little bit like a game of Cat’s Cradle.

‍

Cut the ribbon from the spool, and using the end feed it through to the back of your fingers so that it creates a tight little loop.

Using the end of the ribbon, feed it under the loop, pull until a knot has formed.

Remove from your fingers and you should have a tidy double bow to attach to cards, boxes, and whatever else you may need. If you would like a more complex or intricate ribbon, repeat steps three and four to your heart’s content.

‍