How To: Make a ribbon gift bow

Choose ribbon in an appropriate color, texture and width. Are you trying to match the ribbon color to a particular gift wrap? Will the ribbon width give you the size bow you want? How will you be using the bow?

Choose enough ribbon for the number of bows you want to make. For package bows, purchase approximately 45 inches of ribbon per bow. If you don't want a long tail on your bow, you can purchase less ribbon.

Measure approximately 6 inches from the end of a 45-inch length of ribbon. Use your left thumb and forefinger to mark the spot. This will be one of the ribbon's tails. Use your right hand to fold under the next 6 inches of ribbon to make a 3-inch loop that ends at your left thumb and forefinger.

Secure the loop at its base with your left thumb and forefinger. Each loop will be secured in this manner.

Fold the next 6 inches of ribbon up to form an identical loop that ends at your left thumb and forefinger. You now have two opposing loops and two tails.

Make two more loops, this time using 8-inch lengths of ribbon to make opposing, 4-inch loops. Make these loops and the ones that follow by folding up and toward the center rather than under.

Repeat step 6 using 9-inch lengths of ribbon to make a pair of 4 1/2-inch loops.

Repeat step 6 using 10-inch lengths of ribbon to make a pair of 5-inch loops.

Place a piece of floral wire, approximately 20 inches in length, between your left thumb and the ribbon loops. Make sure that an equal amount of wire is on each side of the ribbon bundle.

Use your right hand to bring the floral wire halves together at the back of the bow and twist them together tightly four or five times. Trim the excess wire or use it to affix the bow to the package.

Arrange and fluff the bow loops to your liking, and trim the ribbon tails by making diagonal cuts across the ribbon ends.