Bolded Quick Summary
Creating buffalo plaid bows for your outdoor wreaths adds classic, cozy charm. Easy to learn, this guide covers materials, simple tying techniques, and how to attach them securely, ensuring your wreath has that essential, welcoming style all season long.
Hello, green thumbs and creative spirits! Pearl Roach here from EcoPatchy. Ever look at a beautiful outdoor wreath and feel like something is missing? Often, it’s that perfect finishing touch that brings it all together. For many of us, especially when aiming for that cozy, rustic, or holiday vibe, a perfectly tied buffalo plaid bow is the secret ingredient. It’s a timeless pattern that just screams warmth and welcome. But if you’ve ever tried to tie a big, beautiful bow and ended up with a lopsided mess, don’t you worry! It’s a common little challenge, but with a few simple tricks, you can achieve stunning results. Today, we’re going to walk through exactly how to create those essential buffalo plaid bows that will make your outdoor wreaths truly shine. Get ready to add a touch of handmade magic to your doorstep!
Why Buffalo Plaid? The Cozy Classic
Buffalo plaid, with its iconic crisscrossing red and black (or any other two contrasting colors!) squares, has a history that’s as robust as its visual appeal. Originally associated with lumberjacks and a rugged outdoor lifestyle, it has since become a beloved symbol of comfort, coziness, and holiday spirit. Think of crackling fires, warm blankets, and crisp autumn or winter air – buffalo plaid embodies all of that.
When it comes to outdoor wreaths, a buffalo plaid bow isn’t just an accessory; it’s a statement. It instantly adds warmth and a welcoming feel to your home’s exterior. Its bold pattern stands out beautifully against greenery, natural wood, or even a simple painted door. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of wreath materials, from evergreen boughs and pinecones to dried flowers and birch branches. It’s a versatile choice that can transition seamlessly through different seasons, particularly autumn and winter holidays.
Gathering Your Buffalo Plaid Bow Supplies
Before we dive into the fun of tying, let’s make sure you have everything you need. The beauty of DIY is that you can often use materials you already have around the house, making it an eco-friendly and budget-conscious project. Here’s a list of essentials:
The Star: Buffalo Plaid Ribbon
- Wired Ribbon is Key: For outdoor wreaths, using wired ribbon is non-negotiable. The wires woven into the edges allow you to shape and hold the bow’s loops and tails perfectly, ensuring it withstands wind and rain much better than unwired ribbons. Look for ribbons that are at least 1.5 inches wide for a substantial bow, but 2.5 inches often creates the most impact for wreaths.
- Weather Resistance: While most wired craft ribbon is reasonably durable, some materials hold up better outdoors than others. Natural fibers like cotton can fade and degrade faster. Synthetic blends or specially treated outdoor ribbons will offer better longevity. If you’re making a bow for a special event or know you’ll want it to last multiple seasons, consider looking into outdoor-specific ribbon options.
- Color Choices: The classic red and black is a perennial favorite, but don’t shy away from other interpretations! Green and black, navy and white, or even muted earth tones in a buffalo plaid pattern can be stunning and offer a unique twist.
Tools for Tying and Attaching
- Sharp Scissors: A good pair of fabric scissors will make clean cuts and prevent fraying.
- Floral Wire or Pipe Cleaners: These are crucial for gathering the center of your bow and for attaching it securely to the wreath. Green floral wire is very common and blends well with natural elements.
- Optional: Hot Glue Gun: While wire is the primary method for attachment, a dab of hot glue can help secure ribbon ends or add extra stability in some cases. Use sparingly and on materials that can handle heat.
- Optional: Measuring Tape: Helpful for ensuring consistent ribbon lengths for your tails.
How to Tie a Perfect Buffalo Plaid Bow: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tying a bow might seem intimidating, but it’s much like tying your shoelaces when you break it down. We’ll focus on a simple, yet full and beautiful, hand-tied bow that’s perfect for wreaths. This method creates lovely loops and elegant tails.
For this guide, we’ll assume you’re using a standard roll of 2.5-inch wired buffalo plaid ribbon.
Step 1: Measure and Cut Your Ribbon
First, unfurl your ribbon. For a substantial wreath bow with two loops on each side and decent-length tails, you’ll want a generous starting piece of ribbon. A good starting point is about 3 to 5 feet. Don’t worry about being exact; you can always trim excess later. Cut your ribbon cleanly with sharp scissors.
Pro Tip: If you want consistently shaped tails down the line, measure and cut a second piece of ribbon the exact same length. This is also useful if you want to create a multi-layered bow or add contrasting ribbon tails.
Step 2: Create the First Loop and Twist
Take your ribbon in hand. Find the center of your ribbon piece; this will be where the knot of your bow cinches. Fold the ribbon in half to mark the center. Now, imagine you’re making a figure ‘8’. Take one side of the ribbon, bring it up and over to create a loop. Then, twist the ribbon in your fingers so the ‘right’ side of the plaid is facing outwards on the loop you just made. Pinch the ribbon securely at the base where it twists.
Step 3: Form the Second Loop
With the same side of the ribbon (the one you just twisted), create another loop of roughly the same size as the first loop. Bring it across your pinched center point. Now, twist the ribbon again, just like you did in Step 2. You should now have two loops, one on each side, and the two raw ends of the ribbon hanging down as tails. Continue to pinch the center firmly.
Step 4: Create the Remaining Loops
Now, repeat this process with the other side of the ribbon. Take the other tail, create a loop, twist it at the base, and continue until you have the desired number of loops. For a full, layered look, you might aim for two or three loops on each side. Ensure each loop is formed with the right side of the plaid facing out and is twisted at the center.
Step 5: The Center Pinch and Secure
Once all your loops are formed, you should have a central gathering point where all the twists converge. This is where your bow will be tied and secured. Take a piece of floral wire (about 6-8 inches long) or a pipe cleaner and wrap it tightly around this pinched center. Twist the ends of the wire together securely at the back of the bow. This will hold your loops in place and give you something to attach the bow to your wreath.
Step 6: Shape Your Bow
This is where the wired ribbon really shines! Gently fluff and arrange your loops. You can curl them, spread them out, or bunch them slightly to create fullness. Pull each loop so it stands out and looks even. Don’t be afraid to adjust; the wire allows you to mold the bow into the perfect shape. Once you’re happy with the fullness and symmetry, ensure the center is still cinched by the wire.
Step 7: Trim the Tails
Now, let’s make those tails look intentional and elegant. Decide how long you want your tails to be. You can create a traditional V-shape cut (a diagonal cut from the outer edge towards the center ribbon) or a simple straight cut. Use your sharp scissors to trim the ends of both tails so they are even and match each other. The V-cut is particularly nice for adding a refined look.
Table 1: Ribbon Length Recommendations for Bow Loops
| Desired Bow Fullness | Ribbon Length Per Loop (Estimate) | Total Ribbon Length (for 2 loops per side) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (2 loops per side) | 12-18 inches | 48-72 inches (4-6 feet) |
| Full (3 loops per side) | 18-24 inches | 72-96 inches (6-8 feet) |
| Extra Full (4 loops per side) | 24-30 inches | 96-120 inches (8-10 feet) |
Note: These are estimates and depend heavily on your ribbon width and desired loop size. It’s always better to start with more ribbon than you think you’ll need.
Attaching Your Buffalo Plaid Bow to the Wreath
With your beautiful buffalo plaid bow perfectly tied and shaped, it’s time to give your wreath its crowning glory. Attaching it securely is vital, especially for outdoor display.
Method 1: Using Floral Wire (Recommended for most wreaths)
This is the most common and secure method. Your bow should already have floral wire twisted at its center from the tying process.
- Position the Bow: Decide where you want your bow placed on the wreath. The top or bottom center are classic spots, but a side placement can also be striking.
- Thread the Wire: Carefully thread the floral wire ends from the back of your bow through the wreath base. You might push it through greenery, interweave it with twigs, or use existing openings in the wreath form.
- Secure Tightly: Once the wire ends are through, pull them snug. Twist them together securely on the back of the wreath. Be careful not to pull so hard that you damage the wreath form or decorations.
- Trim Excess Wire: Trim any long, poking wire ends to prevent them from scratching surfaces or snagging.
- Adjust and Admire: Make any final adjustments to the bow’s position and shape on the front of the wreath.
Method 2: Using Pipe Cleaners
Pipe cleaners work similarly to floral wire and can be a bit more forgiving for beginners.
- Attach Pipe Cleaner: If you didn’t use floral wire, wrap a pipe cleaner tightly around the center of your bow.
- Thread and Twist: Thread the pipe cleaner through the wreath and twist it securely on the back.
- Shape and Trim: Adjust the bow and trim any unruly pipe cleaner ends.
Method 3: Using Hot Glue (Use with Caution)
Hot glue can be a quick way to add extra stability or attach bows to wreath surfaces that don’t have easy openings for wire, like a solid wooden plaque. However, it’s less secure for windy areas and can be difficult to remove without damage.
- Apply Glue: Apply a generous amount of hot glue to the back center of the bow.
- Press Firmly: Quickly press the glued bow onto the desired spot on your wreath. Hold until the glue sets.
- Reinforce with Wire (Optional): For added security, especially in windy locations, consider running a piece of floral wire through the glued section and into the wreath, in addition to the hot glue.
When attaching your bow, consider the weight and size of your wreath. A larger, heavier wreath might need more secure attachment points or even multiple attachment points to prevent it from sagging or falling. For guidance on wreath forms and bases, reputable craft supply stores often have great resources, or you can explore tutorials from organizations like Hobby Lobby which often detail different wreath-making techniques and attachment methods.
Caring for Your Buffalo Plaid Bow Outdoors
Even with the best intentions and wired ribbon, outdoor elements can take their toll. Here’s how to help your buffalo plaid creation last:
- Positioning Matters: If possible, hang your wreath in a location that offers some protection from direct rain and harsh sun. A covered porch or entryway is ideal.
- Choose Your Ribbon Wisely: As mentioned, synthetic or outdoor-specific wired ribbons will fare better than natural fibers like cotton in various weather conditions.
- Gentle Maintenance: If your bow gets a bit misshapen from wind, a gentle fluffing and reshaping can often fix it. For dust or light dirt, a soft brush can work wonders.
- Seasonal Storage: For maximum longevity, consider taking your bow off the wreath after the season is over and storing it indoors. This protects it from dust, humidity, and potential damage. You can then reattach it the following year!
- Consider a Bow Cover: For a truly long-lasting solution, especially in damp climates, you can create a simple, clear plastic protective cover for your bow. This can be as simple as a piece of clear cellophane secured around the bow.
Beyond the Basics: Elevating Your Buffalo Plaid Bow Wreath
Once you’ve mastered the basic buffalo plaid bow, there are so many ways to make your wreath even more special!
Layering Ribbons
Combine your buffalo plaid ribbon with a complementary solid color or a textured ribbon in a similar width. For instance, layer a deep green velvet ribbon underneath the buffalo plaid. This adds depth and a more luxurious feel.
Adding Accents
Consider adding a few sprigs of faux evergreen, berries, or small pinecones within the loops of your bow itself. You can secure these with a bit of floral wire or hot glue before you attach the bow to the wreath.
Multiple Bows
For larger wreaths, a single, oversized bow can be stunning. For a more whimsical or abundant look, consider using two or three smaller buffalo plaid bows scattered around the wreath. Make sure they are proportionally sized to the wreath itself.
Contrasting Tails
Use a different ribbon for the long tails than you do for the loops. For example, you could use buffalo plaid for classic loops and have contrasting solid red or black tails cascading down. This adds another layer of visual interest.
Seasonal Embellishments
Tie your buffalo plaid bow to the theme of your wreath. For Christmas, pair it with holly sprigs and red berries. For fall, add a few mini pumpkins or dried leaves. For a general cozy vibe, incorporate pinecones and eucalyptus.
FAQ: Your Buffalo Plaid Bow Wreath Questions Answered
Q1: What is the best type of ribbon for outdoor wreaths?
The best ribbon for outdoor wreaths is wired ribbon. The wires in the edges make it easy to shape and hold its form, and it’s generally more durable against wind and weather than non-wired ribbon. Look for ribbons made from synthetic materials for better weather resistance, although natural fiber ribbons can work if the wreath is in a protected area.
Q2: How do I prevent my ribbon from fraying outdoors?
You can prevent fraying by using sharp scissors for clean cuts. For a neat finish, consider cutting the ribbon tails into a V-shape or using a fray-stop solution, which is a clear liquid glue that seals the edges. For wired ribbon, the edges are often bound, which naturally reduces fraying at the sides. The cut ends of the tails are the main concern.
Q3: My bow keeps falling flat. What am I doing wrong?
This usually happens when the center isn’t secured tightly enough or when using non-wired ribbon. Ensure you are twisting floral wire or pipe cleaners very tightly around the center of the bow. The wire also helps maintain the shape; if your wired ribbon is old or very flimsy, it might not hold its form well.
Q4: How big should my bow be compared to my wreath?
A good rule of thumb is that the bow’s diameter (from the widest point of its loops) should be roughly one-third to one-half the diameter of your wreath. For very large wreaths, the bow can be more prominent. It’s about creating balance; the bow should be a focal point but not overpower the entire wreath.
Q5: Can I make a buffalo plaid bow on a wreath in advance?
Yes, absolutely! You can definitely make and attach your buffalo plaid bow to a wreath in advance. If you plan to store the wreath for an extended period, especially in an unconditioned space, it’s best to store it in a cool, dry place, perhaps in a dedicated wreath storage box or a large plastic bin, to protect it from dust, moisture, and pests.
Q6: What if my wreath is for a very windy spot?
For windy locations, prioritize a very secure attachment method.
