This bow is one of my favorite things to make because it keeps its shape beautifully — even in rain or snow. It won’t get soggy, floppy, or sad-looking. You can use it on wreaths, garlands, doors, porch decorations… anywhere you want a big, bold bow that lasts.
And the best part? It’s truly simple. I’ll walk you through it step by step.
What You’ll Need
- Felt fabric (the thicker, the better — thicker felt gives your bow a strong, crisp, weather-resistant shape)
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Needle and thread or hot glue gun and grips/zip ties
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cut Your Main Bow Strip
Cut a long strip of felt that is double the length you want your bow to be.
- For a large bow, you may want to play with proportions.
- An easy trick: pinch the strip in the middle and see how it looks. If it feels too small or too big, adjust your strip length or width before going further.
2. Form Your Bow Shape
Now pinch the strip together in three folds, like a classic bow:
- The first and last fold should leave the open fabric edges tucked behind the bow so they don’t show.
- Adjust the folds until the bow looks full and even.
When you’re happy with it, secure the center using one of these:
- A zip tie (quick and holds strongly)
- Hand stitching through the center
- A drop of hot glue
Any option works — just use what feels easiest for you.
3. Make the Center Band
Cut a smaller strip of felt that will wrap around the middle of the bow.
A little tip:
Make this center strip double the width you want the final band to appear, because you’ll fold it so no open edges show.
To prepare the center band:
- Fold it in half lengthwise so that the raw edges meet in the middle on the back side.
- Wrap it around the center of the bow to cover your stitching or zip tie.
- Glue or sew the ends together at the back.
This gives your bow a clean, finished look.
4. Create the Bow Tails
Cut two long strips of felt for your bow tails — the length is completely up to you.
Attach them to the back of the bow so they hang freely.
This makes it easy to position them nicely once your bow is displayed.
For a polished look, cut the ends:
- In a 45° angle
- Or into V-shaped dovetails
- Or any style you prefer
You’re Done!
Your bow is sturdy, weatherproof, and holds its shape beautifully. You can make it huge and dramatic or small and sweet — felt makes it forgiving and easy to handle.
To attach the bow to a wreath or garland, I like to use wire because it’s easy to secure to the back of the bow. If the bow is really large, it’s a good idea to attach the bow loops to the garland as well so everything stays nicely in place.
