How to Make Patriotic Bows by Hand

Step 1

Use your 1st ribbon to make (2) 7" tails with (2) 8" loops.Create an “X” shape with the loops and ribbon tails then place this ribbon down onto an extra-long pipe cleaner. Twist the pipe cleaner tightly over this ribbon 3 times.

Step 2

Grab your 2nd ribbon and make (2) 7"tails with (2) 7"loops.Place this layer on top of the previous layer in the pipe cleaner. Offset this layer so that the loops of this layer go on top of the tails of the bottom layer.Wrap the pipe cleaner over this ribbon and twist it tightly 3 times.

Step 3

Take the 3rd ribbon and make (2) 7" tails with (2) 6" loops. Add this ribbon on top of the previous ribbon and offset the loops and tails.Hold the ribbon down while you twist the pipe cleaner tightly over it 3 times.

Step 4

Now, take your 4th ribbon and create (2) 7" tails with (2) 5" loops. Add this layer on top of the previous one and hold it down while you twist the pipe cleaner tightly over it 3 times.

Step 5

Next, take your 5th ribbon and create (2) 7" tails with (2) 5" loops. Place this layer on top of the previous layer in the pipe cleaner, following the pattern of offsetting the loops and tails. Twist the pipe cleaner 3 times to secure this ribbon in place.

Step 6

Take the 6th ribbon and create (2) 7" tails with (2) 4" loops. Add this layer to the top of the pipe cleaner and twist the pipe cleaner tightly over it three times.

Step 7

Wrap the pipe cleaner ends around the bow and twist them together 3 times at the back of the bow.

Step 8

Starting with the bottom layer, fluff out each of the ribbon loops. Spread out the loops and tails to eliminate any gaps or holes.

Step 9

Fluff everything out and dovetail the ends. Trim any long ribbon tails shorter, if needed.