Hi, I’m Hollie from Hollie Hobbies, the newest member of the Bowdabra Design Team! Here with a fun guide on how to make an easy funky bow! Today I’m going to show you how easy it is to make this beautiful multi-ribbon bow, also known as a Funky Bow. We’ll be tying this one up a little differently than we traditionally do. If you’re a beginner or just bow-challenged, this bow-making method using the Bowdabra is perfect for you. Let’s getstarted!
2 x 2.5 in ribbon x 24in
4 x 1.5 in ribbon x 23in
Zip tie or Bowdabra Bow Wire
pipe cleaner or floral wire
Bowdabra
First, in this bow, we use 6 different ribbons. Two ribbons are 2 1/2″ wide and the other four are 1 1/2″ wide. The length of the two 2 1/2″ ribbons are 24″ long, while the 1 1/2″ ribbons are 23″ in length.
Next, with the first 2 1/2″ ribbon pinch and scrunch into the Bowdabra to make a 7-inch tail. Twist and bring the ribbon over, make a loop, and match the tail you already made scrunching into the Bowdabra.
Now, using the second 2 1/2″ ribbon make the tail on the previous loop side. Twist and bring across to make a loop and scrunch in the Bowdabra. Dovetail each tail as you go. (optionally you can wait till you’ve made the bow and dovetail each tail at that point)
Continue stacking 1 1/2″ ribbon colors alternating loops and tails. Make the loops on the 1 1/2″ ribbons just a little bit smaller than the larger ribbon loops. Continue until you have used all your ribbons.
Now, lift the stack wrap a zip tie in the center, slide a pipe cleaner in between, and pull it tight.
Finally, open the loops and fluff and shape the bow. Use the pipe cleaner to hold onto the bow as you arrange your super easy funky bow. Start by arranging the tails on each side individually. Next, fluff out all the loops. Then using two fingers slide them along each tail curling downward. Trim any tails if necessary.
Note: Alternately you can use Bowdabra wire to tie up your bow. Simply fold a long piece of Bow wire in half and lay it in the Bowdabra before you begin adding your ribbons. When you are ready to tie up your bow thread the loose wire through the loop in a slip knot and pull tight.
