Bows for outdoor wreaths add charm and personality! This guide covers choosing the right materials, making simple, durable bows, and attaching them securely to withstand the elements, even for beginners.
Welcome, fellow garden enthusiasts and DIY dreamers! Ever look at a beautiful outdoor wreath and think, “How did they get that bow to look so perfect and stay put?” It’s a common question, and one that can feel a little daunting. But trust me, creating stunning, weather-resistant bows for your outdoor wreaths is totally achievable, even if you’re just starting. We’ll break it down step-by-step, choosing materials that last and techniques that work. Get ready to add that perfect finishing touch to your front door!
Why Your Outdoor Wreath Needs a Great Bow
Think of a bow as the dazzling smile of your outdoor wreath. It’s often the first thing people notice, drawing the eye and setting the tone for your home’s welcome. A well-made bow can transform a simple wreath into a statement piece. Without it, a wreath can feel a bit… unfinished, like a cake without frosting! For outdoor wreaths, this bow needs to be more than just pretty; it needs to be tough enough to handle sunshine, rain, and wind. Choosing the right bow material and attachment method is key to a long-lasting decorative display that you can enjoy season after season.
Choosing the Right Ribbon: The Foundation of a Great Bow
The ribbon you choose is the most crucial element for an outdoor wreath bow. It needs to look good, feel good to work with, and most importantly, stand up to Mother Nature. Not all ribbons are created equal when it comes to outdoor use.
Materials That Shine (and Don’t Fray!)
Wired Ribbon: This is your absolute best friend for outdoor bows. The wire running along the edges allows you to shape the loops and tails beautifully, and it holds that shape no matter what. Look for ribbons made from materials like polyester or nylon, which are more durable than natural fibers. Wired ribbon is excellent for creating full, structured bows that won’t get limp in the breeze.
Outdoor Fabric Ribbon: Some companies specifically create ribbons designed for outdoor use. These are often made from treated polyester or polypropylene that resists fading and moisture. They might have less structure than wired ribbon unless they are also, well, wired!
Burlap Ribbon: A popular choice for a rustic look. Natural burlap can absorb moisture and may not hold up long-term, but synthetic or treated burlap ribbons are much more durable and resistant to dampness and sun.
Velvet Ribbon (with caution): While luxurious, most velvet ribbons are not ideal for sustained outdoor exposure. They can attract dirt, fade quickly in direct sun, and degrade with moisture. If you must use velvet, consider it for a sheltered porch or for a very short decorative period.
Materials to Avoid Outdoors
Silk Ribbon: Beautiful indoors, but it will water-stain and fade very quickly outside.
Satin Ribbon (non-wired): Prone to crushing and getting waterlogged. Wired satin is a much better option if you like the sheen.
Natural Fibers like Cotton or Linen (unless heavily treated): These will absorb water, fade, and can develop mildew.
Essential Tools for Bow Making
You don’t need a fancy craft room to make great bows! Here are a few basics that will make the process much smoother:
Sharp Scissors: Crucial for clean cuts. Dull scissors will chew up your ribbon and make a mess.
Wire Cutters: If using wired ribbon, these are a lifesaver for snipping the wire cleanly.
Floral Wire or Pipe Cleaners: For tying the center of your bow securely. Green floral wire blends in well with wreath foliage.
Measuring Tape or Ruler: For consistent loop sizes.
Scissors or Rotary Cutter & Mat: For cutting ribbon to length cleanly.
Glue Gun (optional, but helpful): For securing ribbon ends or adding decorative elements. Use outdoor-rated glue if possible.
Ruler or a flat surface: To help you measure and keep your loops even.
A sturdy, flat surface: Like a table or workbench, to craft your bow on.
How to Make a Simple, Durable Outdoor Wreath Bow: Step-by-Step
Let’s get crafting! This method is for a classic, multi-loop bow, perfect for most outdoor wreaths.
Step 1: Measure and Cut Your Ribbon
Decide how big you want your bow. A good rule of thumb is that the bow’s width should be roughly one-third to one-half the diameter of your wreath. For this basic bow, plan on a generous amount of ribbon.
For Tails: Cut one piece of ribbon about 18-24 inches long. This will form the hanging tails of your bow.
For Loops: Cut additional pieces. For a simple 3-loop bow with 2 tails, you might cut 3 pieces, each about 12-18 inches long. The exact length depends on how large you want your loops.
Tip: Add a few extra inches to your measurements to be safe. You can always trim excess later!
Step 2: Create the Center Loops
Take one of your loop pieces. Fold it in half to find the center. Then, bring the two ends together to form a loop. Pinch the base of the loop tightly.
Wired Ribbon: Twist the pinched center a couple of times to hold its shape.
Non-wired ribbon: You’ll need floral wire here soon.
Repeat this for all your loop pieces, creating several individual loops. Aim for the loops to be roughly the same size.
Pro Tip: For a fuller bow, you can make slightly different sized loops. For example, two medium loops and one larger loop for the center.
Step 3: Form the Bow by Layering Loops
Now, let’s assemble the bow. Lay your tail piece flat.
1. Place your first loop on top of the tail, centering it across the middle. Pinch the base where it meets the tail.
2. Add your second loop on top of the first. Pinch all three layers together at the base (tail and two loops).
3. If you have a third loop, place it on top and pinch all four layers together.
You should now have a layered stack of loops on top of your tail piece, all pinched at the center.
Step 4: Secure the Center
This is where your floral wire or pipe cleaner comes in.
1. Take a 6-8 inch piece of floral wire or a pipe cleaner.
2. Thread it through the pinched center of all your layers, from front to back or back to front.
3. Twist the wire or pipe cleaner ends together securely at the back of the bow. Make sure it’s snug so the bow doesn’t come undone.
External Link Tip: For more advanced bow-making techniques and visual guides, check out resources from reputable craft supply sites or floral design blogs that often offer tutorials.
Step 5: Shape and Fluff Your Bow
This is where the magic happens!
1. For Wired Ribbon: Gently separate and shape each loop. Pull them outwards and upwards to create volume. You can twist them gently to give them a nice curve. Fluff and arrange until you’re happy with the fullness.
2. For Non-Wired Ribbon: Carefully arrange the loops, using the wire/pipe cleaner to help position them. You might need to fluff more gently to avoid crushing.
Step 6: Create and Arrange the Tails
1. Take your tail piece. You can leave it as is, or give it a diagonal cut or a V-shape cut at the end for a professional finish.
2. To cut a diagonal, fold the tail in half lengthwise and snip at an angle.
3. To cut a V-shape (or “dovetail”), fold the tail in half lengthwise and cut from the outer edge towards the fold, creating a notch.
4. Arrange the tails behind your loops. You can separate them or let them overlap slightly, depending on your desired look.
Step 7: Trim and Refine
Step back and look at your bow. Trim any excess ribbon or wire. Make sure all the loops look balanced and the tails are even (or intentionally uneven, if that’s your style!).
Attaching Your Bow to an Outdoor Wreath: Keeping it Secure
Making a beautiful bow is one thing, but attaching it so it survives wind and rain is another. Here are the best methods:
Method 1: Using the Built-in Wire (for Wreath Bases with Attachments)
Many wreaths, especially those made with natural materials like grapevine or artificial greenery, have pre-made loops or spaces where you can tuck in wire.
1. Ensure your bow has sturdy wire or pipe cleaner tails from Step 4.
2. Gently push these wire ends into the wreath’s base.
3. On the back of the wreath, twist the wire ends together securely. You might need to weave them through branches or the wreath frame.
4. If the bow feels loose, you can use extra floral wire to secure it further to the wreath frame itself.
Method 2: Creating a Wire Loop for Attachment
If your wreath doesn’t have obvious attachment points, or you want extra security:
1. Thread a longer piece of strong floral wire (about 10-12 inches) through the back of your bow’s center where you already twisted the securing wire.
2. Twist this new wire around the existing securing wire to create a strong, unified attachment point.
3. On the back of the wreath, find a sturdy part of the wireframe or a thick bundle of branches.
4. Wrap the extended wire around this point and twist it tightly.
5. Consider adding a dab of hot glue where the wire meets the wreath base for added stability, especially if it’s a sheltered spot and you’re using a durable glue.
Method 3: The Glue Gun (Use with Caution!)
A hot glue gun can be helpful for securing ribbon ends or small decorative elements, and sometimes for attaching a bow if other methods are difficult.
Best for: Attaching bows to very smooth surfaces like decorative plaques or very solid wreath forms where wire won’t hold. It’s also great for adding embellishments to the bow itself.
Cautions: Hot glue can melt some materials and may not hold up well to extreme temperature changes or moisture. Use glue specifically rated for outdoor or craft use if possible. Apply a generous amount directly to the back of the bow’s center and press firmly onto the wreath for 30-60 seconds until set. For maximum outdoor resilience, this is often best used in conjunction with wire.
Method 4: Cable Ties (Zip Ties)
For extremely windy locations, strong cable ties can be a surprisingly effective way to secure a bow.
1. Thread your floral wire tails through the bow’s center as usual.
2. Instead of twisting, loop the wire tails around a small, sturdy cable tie positioned on the back of the bow’s center.
3. Use the cable tie to secure the bow to a strong part of the wreath frame. Tighten it firmly.
4. You can then hide the cable tie by covering it with extra ribbon or foliage. This is a very secure, though perhaps less aesthetically pleasing, method for extreme weather.
Table: Ribbon Material Comparison for Outdoor Wreaths
| Ribbon Material | Durability (Sun/Rain) | Shaping Ability | Rustic Look | Formal Look | Best Use Case |
| :——————– | :——————– | :————– | :———- | :———- | :———————————————– |
| Wired Polyester | Very Good | Excellent | Depends | Excellent | Most versatile, holds shape in wind |
| Outdoor Fabric | Excellent | Good | Depends | Depends | Specifically designed for weather resistance |
| Synthetic Burlap | Good | Fair | Excellent | Not usually | Rustic charm, holds up better than natural burlap |
| Natural Burlap | Fair | Fair | Excellent | Not usually | Short-term use, sheltered areas, high moisture risk |
| Wired Satin/Velvet| Fair to Good | Good | Not typically | Excellent | Sheltered porches, less direct sun exposure |
| Silk/Cotton/Linen | Poor | Poor | Varies | Varies | Not recommended for outdoor use |
Weatherproofing Your Wreath Bow
Beyond choosing the right ribbon, a few extra steps can extend the life of your beautiful bow.
Sealant Spray: For ribbons that might be a bit borderline (like some treated burlap or non-specific outdoor fabrics), a clear acrylic sealant spray (available at craft or hardware stores) can add an extra layer of protection against moisture and UV rays. Test on a scrap piece first! Make sure to choose a spray that dries clear and doesn’t leave a sticky residue. You can find sealants like Krylon Clear Acrylic Sealant which is designed to protect various craft surfaces.
Placement Matters: If possible, hang your wreath on a door that is sheltered from the harshest weather. A covered porch or a door that doesn’t face direct south (where sun is strongest) will help preserve your bow.
Maintenance: Even the best outdoor bows may need a little touch-up. If your bow gets slightly misshapen from rain or wind, gently re-fluff the loops once it dries.
Creative Bow Ideas for Different Seasons and Styles
Don’t be afraid to get creative! The bow is your chance to inject personality.
Rustic Charm: Use burlap or moss-green wired ribbon. Pair with natural elements like pinecones, berries, or twigs embedded in your wreath.
Holiday Cheer: Go bold with red and green velvet for Christmas, pastels for Easter, or orange and black for Halloween. Wired ribbons are perfect for creating big, festive loops.
Farmhouse Chic: Opt for classic buffalo check patterns in wired ribbon. Add a touch of twine or simple greenery.
Minimalist Elegance: Use a single, beautifully crafted bow in a neutral color like cream, taupe, or a deep navy. A satin or grosgrain wired ribbon can add a touch of sophistication.
* Layered Looks: Combine two different ribbons for a more complex and visually interesting bow. For instance, layer a solid wired ribbon with a patterned one.
Insider Tip: Don’t feel limited to just one bow! For larger wreaths, consider adding a smaller coordinating bow lower down, or even a cluster of bows.
FAQ: Your Outdoor Wreath Bow Questions Answered
Q1: How do I make my outdoor wreath bow look full and not flat?
A1: Use wired ribbon! It allows you to lift and shape each loop individually. Start with generous loops and gently pull them outwards and upwards, fluffing as you go until you achieve the desired volume. Don’t be afraid to twist the wire in the loops to give them body.
Q2: My ribbons always fray when I cut them. What can I do?
A2: Make sure you’re using very sharp scissors. For synthetic ribbons, a quick swipe with a lighter (use extreme caution and do this away from any flammable materials!) can melt and seal the edges, preventing fraying. For natural fibers, you might consider a fabric sealant on the cut edges.
Q3: How long will a bow made with regular craft ribbon last outdoors?
A3: Honestly, it depends heavily on the ribbon material and the weather conditions. Silk, cotton, or basic satin ribbons might only last a few days to a couple of weeks before they start to degrade, fade, or get damaged. Wired polyester ribbon specifically designed for outdoor or craft use will last significantly longer, often several months if protected from the most extreme elements.
Q4: Can I use hot glue to attach the bow to my wreath?
A4: Yes, but with reservations. Hot glue is best for a quick fix or for securing decorative elements to the bow itself. For outdoor wreaths, it’s often not the most durable solution. Extreme heat can make it melt, and cold can make it brittle. It’s generally better to use wire or zip ties for a secure attachment, at least for the main bow structure. If you do use hot glue, ensure the wreath base can accept it and apply it generously to a clean, dry surface.
Q5: What’s the easiest way to attach a bow to a grapevine wreath?
A5: Grapevine wreaths are quite forgiving! The best method is usually to use the wire or pipe cleaner tails that you created when making the bow. Simply push these tails through the grapevine, then twist them securely on the back of the wreath. You can weave them around thicker parts of the vine for extra stability. Don’t hesitate to use a little extra floral wire if needed!
Q6: How can I make my bow look less “homemade” and more professional?
A6: Precision and symmetry help! Ensure your loops are as even as possible. For the tails, cutting a clean V-shape (dovetail) at the end makes a big difference. Also, spend time fluffing and arranging each loop to give the bow a full, well-balanced appearance. Using high-quality, wired ribbon is also a key factor in achieving a professional look.
Q7: Do I need to take my wreath bow down in heavy rain or snow?
A7: If your
