How to Make Christmas Bows for Your Tree (Plus Ready-Made Options)
Bows are one of the simplest ways to make a Christmas tree look styled and complete. A row of matching ribbon bows adds colour and structure, and a large bow makes a beautiful alternative to a traditional topper.
In this guide, we show you how to make Christmas bows for your Christmas tree, from a quick loop bow to a full florist bow, plus the best ribbons to use and ready-made options when you’re short on time. Florists, retailers and home decorators will find everything they need in the ribbon range at Floral Craft.
Key Takeaways
- Wired-edge ribbon makes the neatest, longest-lasting bows.
- Cut all your ribbon lengths before you start so every bow is the same size.
- Use florist wire or a pipe cleaner in the centre to hold the loops and attach the bow.
- Small and medium bows suit the branches, while a large bow makes a statement topper.
- Ready-made bows are a quick, consistent option for busy florists and retailers.
Choosing Ribbon for Christmas Bows
The ribbon you choose makes a big difference to how your bows look and hold their shape. Wired ribbon is the easiest to work with because the loops stay full and can be reshaped.
| Ribbon | Width | Best bow type |
|---|---|---|
| Red Satin Ribbon with Gold Metallic Wired Edge | 25mm | Small branch bows |
| Metallic Christmas Tree Ribbon (Wired Edge) | 38mm | Medium loop bows |
| Diamond Design Woven Metallic Ribbon (Wired Edge) | 38mm | Florist bows with texture |
| Double Face Satin Ribbon (Wired Edge) | 50mm | Full florist bows |
| Velvet Ribbon | 63mm | Statement topper bows |
| Carnivale Velvet Ribbon | 9cm | Large, luxurious topper bows |
See our guide on how to put ribbon on a Christmas tree for more on choosing ribbon widths and colours.
What You’ll Need
- Wired Christmas ribbon
- Sharp ribbon scissors
- Florist wire or pipe cleaners
- A ruler or tape measure
How to Make 4 Types of Christmas Bows
1Simple Loop Bow
Best for: Small bows for branches and quick decorating.
- Cut a length of ribbon about 40 to 50cm long.
- Tie it in a classic shoelace-style bow around a branch.
- Pull the loops to even them out and shape the wired edges.
- Trim the tails at an angle or into a “V”.
2Classic Florist Bow
Best for: Full, professional bows for trees, wreaths and gifts.
- Leave a tail of about 20cm, then pinch the ribbon between your thumb and finger.
- Make a loop and bring the ribbon back to the centre, giving it a half twist so the right side faces out.
- Make a matching loop on the other side, twisting again at the centre.
- Repeat to make three or four loops on each side, getting slightly smaller as you go.
- Wrap florist wire tightly around the centre and twist at the back.
- Cut a second tail, fluff the loops and shape the wired edges.
3Layered Double Bow
Best for: Adding depth and colour contrast.
- Make a florist bow in a wide ribbon, such as a 50mm satin.
- Make a smaller bow in a narrower, contrasting ribbon, such as a metallic or printed ribbon.
- Place the smaller bow on top and wire the two together through the centre.
4Statement Topper Bow
Best for: Topping the tree or a large wreath.
- Use a wide ribbon such as velvet ribbon or Carnivale Velvet Ribbon.
- Make a florist bow with four or five large loops on each side.
- Leave long tails, up to the height of the tree if you like, to cascade down the branches.
- Wire the bow firmly to the top of the tree and tuck the tails into the branches.
Ready-Made Christmas Bows
When time is short, ready-made bows give you a consistent, polished finish. They’re ideal for retailers dressing several display trees, florists finishing wreaths and anyone who wants a quick result.
- Metallic Christmas Bow / Gold
- Metallic Christmas Bow / Red
- Velvet Christmas Bow / Dark Red (30cm x 35cm)
Mix ready-made bows with handmade ones for a full, layered look.
How to Place Bows on Your Christmas Tree
- Decorate in the right order: Add lights and ribbon first, then bows, then baubles and ornaments.
- Space them evenly: Place bows in a loose diamond or zigzag pattern around the tree.
- Mix sizes: Use larger bows lower down and smaller bows towards the top.
- Finish at the top: Add a statement topper bow, or see our guide on how to decorate a Christmas tree like a florist for more topper ideas.
Bows also look beautiful on Christmas wreaths, garlands and gift packaging. For gift ideas, read our post on Christmas gift packaging ideas.
Shop Christmas Ribbon for Bows at Floral Craft
Make beautiful bows with wired satin, metallic and velvet Christmas ribbon from Floral Craft, or save time with our ready-made Christmas bows.
Explore Our Ribbon Range
Browse the full ribbon range, including specialty ribbon, or the full Christmas collection.
Wholesale Supply Australia Wide
As a trade wholesaler based in Norwood, South Australia, we supply florists, retailers and event stylists with Christmas decorations and floristry supplies, delivered Australia wide. Register for a trade account to access wholesale pricing, or contact our team for help choosing the right products.
FAQ
What is the best ribbon for Christmas tree bows?
Wired-edge ribbon is best because it holds loops and can be reshaped. Satin, metallic and velvet wired ribbons all make beautiful bows. Explore our Christmas ribbon range.
How much ribbon do I need for a bow?
A simple small bow needs around 40 to 50cm of ribbon. A full florist bow with several loops and tails needs much more, so measure your first bow and use it as a guide.
How do I attach bows to a Christmas tree?
Wrap florist wire or a pipe cleaner around the centre of the bow and twist the ends around a branch.
How many bows should I put on my tree?
It depends on the size of the tree and the look you want. Space bows evenly in a diamond pattern, then step back and add more where needed.
Can I make a bow for the top of my tree?
Yes. A large florist bow in a wide velvet or satin ribbon, with long tails, makes a stunning topper.
Do you sell ready-made Christmas bows?
Yes. Floral Craft stocks ready-made metallic and velvet Christmas bows in our Christmas ornaments range.
Where can I buy wholesale Christmas ribbon in Australia?
Floral Craft supplies wholesale Christmas ribbon to florists, retailers and stylists, delivered Australia wide. Register for a trade account to access wholesale pricing.