How to make a perfect Mardi Gras bow with Bowdabra

Make this durable Mardi Gras bow that’s perfect for wreaths, swags, tree décor, gift wrap, and centerpieces—and learn a 2026 bow trend that gives you a big, full look with fewer loops.

Materials:

Ribbons:

2 1/2″ wide 1.5 yards – 4100.60/10-634 #4100 Wired Lamé Ribbon

1.5 yards – 7740.60/10-607 #7740 Sequin Sparkle Ribbon 2-1/2 in Emerald

1.5 yards – 7862.40/10-610 #7862 Twinklíng Ribbon 1-1/2 in Purple

 1 1/2″ yards – 10” wide Deco Mesh

1/2 yard – Bowdabra Scrunchy Ribbon

Bowdabra Bow Wire

Bowdabra

Instructions:

First, cut a piece of Bowdabra bow wire long enough that you will be able to use it to tie to a wreath, if you so desire. Fold it in half and place it in the Bowdabra. Tuck the ends underneath to stay out of the way while you make the bow.

Then, fold the end of the mesh under to hide any fraying and scrunch down into the Bowdabra from the center.

Next, using pre-dovetailed ribbon, make a shoelace bow using the lame ribbon. To make a little shoelace bow, find the center of the ribbon and scrunch it down into the Bowdabra.  Now bring one side across and scrunch down, then bring the other side across and scrunch down.

Repeat this step with the sequin sparkle ribbon and twinkling ribbon, making sure all the loops are about the same size.

Finally, make a scrunchy bow.  Using Bowdabra scrunchy ribbon, insert it from the top and scrunch down like an accordion.

Scrunch everything down with the Bowdabra wand.  Then, insert the loose wires through the loop and pull tight while the bow is still in the Bowdabra. Then, remove the bow from the Bowdabra, separate the ends, turn to the back, and tie a knot.

You have a perfect Mardi Gras bow that is full without using as much ribbon!