Directions for Curly Ribbon Bows
Curly ribbon bows can be used as package embellishments, hair accessories, curtain tie backs or napkin rings. Curly ribbon bows can also be added to bridal combs to make headpieces for flower girls and junior bridesmaids or to make quinceanera favors. They add a festive flair. Curly ribbon bows are inexpensive to make. They are an attractive finishing touch.
Preparation
Narrow, brightly-colored paper-based ribbon is easier to curl than other ribbon. Paper strips can be used instead of a combination of fibers, but it takes a more careful, steady motion to pull all-paper ribbon over the scissor blades to curl it without breaking. Cut curling ribbon into equal pieces between 12 and 18 inches long. Anything longer than 18 inches will be more difficult to curl.
Pinching the ribbon at the center point between the two ends creates a starting point where the ribbon will rest against the scissors. You will have to press your thumb on the ribbon to hold it against the dull edge of the scissor blade. Keep the pressure constant while you pull the ribbon down over the scissor blade. Tie four to six curled ribbons together at their center points to make a large, dangling bow.
Cheri Sicard at FabulousFoods.com uses eight strands of color-coordinated ribbon when making her package bows, which saves time. Her photo tutorial advises, "...lay the ribbon over the box as shown in the photos. Bring the ribbons over to the other side of the box. When the ribbons meet in the middle give them a twist, then go around the box in the other direction." She continues, "Tie a tight double knot with the ribbon strands on the front side of the package, (and then) tie the ends of the ribbon into a large bow."
Problems
You will have to adjust your pulling speed if the ribbon does not curl enough the first time, repeating until you have a Shirley Temple-like sausage with two curled ends and a short, straight section at the center point. If the ribbon is too long, it may not curl. If you want to keep it long, pull it across the scissors until you reach the halfway point. Adjust your grip before you continue to pull to the end.
Uses
Curling ribbon strands can be attached to barrettes, coated pony tail holders, jelly bracelets or French-style earring hooks. Use a lark's head knot to attach the ribbons. Pull a folded length of straight ribbon loop-first through a pony tail holder, jelly bracelet or French hook about an inch or so, with the ends dangling. Wrap the ends over the item and back through the loop, pulling tight. Once all your ribbons are in place, begin curling the ends. If you are embellishing bridal combs, make the knots between the teeth of the comb.
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