Do-it-yourself Hair Bows

Friday, February 1, 2013

Do-it-yourself Hair Bows

tiny hair bows

Hair bows, the classic accessory for little girls, have shown up on everyone from models to fashion-forward socialites. To get in on this trend (and to avoid expensive designer bows), try making your own. All you need is ribbon, an undecorated hair clip/barrette, scissors and a hot glue gun.

Types of Ribbon

Craft stores are full of ribbon in different colors, textures and sizes. Here are a few terms to know before you pick out your favorite:

Chiffon, organdy and organza are lightweight, sheer ribbons. They make gorgeous bows, but won't hold their shape as well as a stiffer ribbon. You can tie these around your head, or over your ponytail, for a romantic look.

Satin ribbons are smooth and shiny on one side (single-faced) or both sides (double-faced). Avoid red and green, unless you want to look like a Christmas present.

Grosgrain ribbons are fairly thick, and have diagonal ribbing. They're crisp and hold shape well.

Taffeta ribbons are light and iridescent, and come in sheer and opaque colors. Always cut taffeta ribbons diagonally, because the ends fray.

Wired ribbons hold shape wonderfully, since they have tiny wires sewn into their edges. They can be re-molded if they're crushed or lose their shape.

Directions

With your ribbon of choice, make two loops, in a figure eight. Don't cut anything yet. Take the long end of the ribbon (that's still attached to the rest of the roll) and make a third loop that crosses over the center of your bow. Then make the last loop, crossing back over the center. You should now have two intertwining figure eights.

Pinch the center of the bow to create a crisp shape. Secure it. You can do this by tying a short piece of ribbon around the middle, twisting some wire around it, or sewing it into place. Trim the excess ribbon/wire/thread and cut the ends of the bow into neat, diagonal lines.

Fasten the bow to the hair clip or barrette with a dab of hot glue.

Variations

1. With these directions, you can make your bow any size you want. Use an appropriate-size clip to match. You don't have to stop with four loops; add more, especially if your hair is long and full.

2. Instead of trimming the ends short, leave four or five inches for an especially girly look.

3. Before you put the hot glue gun away, you can glue tiny accessories onto your bow, like appliques, silk flowers, sequins or rhinestones.

4. Attach your bow to a headband, a wide scarf, or even a piece of clothing.

Wintage

Friday, February 1, 2013