Messy Bows | A Step by Step Guide

My bow making interest began once my daughter was born. I wanted something that allowed me to create and learn new techniques. It also removed the problem of not finding just the right bow or style or shade I wanted. I started my shop, Ivy Jae Co, on Etsy as a platform to be able to create endless hair accessories and celebratory items.

My current favorite bow style is a messy bow. They just look so effortless and delicate and can be dressed up or down! I found a thin, stretchy material works best, and I always go for a ribbed material for added texture.

For this project, you’ll need fabric of your choice. With fall approaching, I picked a must-have mustard yellow to give me that fallen, crispy leaf shade. For a more feminine touch, I picked a toned down, rosy color. Any type of cutter or scissors, a hot glue gun, clips (or nylon headbands), and string are the remaining materials needed. Keep in the mind, the string colordoes not matter as it will be covered by the end.

Step 1: Measure and cut a 11” x 3” strip for the bow itself, and a 1” x 3” strip for what will be the center of the bow.

Step 2: To form the bow, start by turning the fabric over, then taking the right side and folding it on itself at an angle and repeating the process with the left side. (See pictures.)

Step 3: Next, pinch the fabric from top and bottom and hold in the center. Tie the string around the center to hold it in place and cut the excess.

Step 4: Lastly, take the smaller piece of fabric your previously cut, tie it around the center of the bow, and finish it off by using a bit of glue to secure either a clip or headband.

Now, the possibilities are endless!! You can play with fabrics, designs, and sizes! Especially for the approaching fall season, I have a deep brown fabric getting delivered soon that I can’t wait to play with.

Lesly Diaz

Hi, Woman Time Daily viewers! I’m Lesly Diaz, A 24-year-old stay at home mom to my 1-year-old daughter, Sofia. I’m a recent CSUB graduate and since then, my life has revolved around being a mom. I’m a sucker for a good DIY. Since my daughter, I’ve had an excuse to make bows or decorations to put in her playroom or for special occasions. My daughter and I love our target trips and banana nut bread from Starbucks. My days are predictable, (as much as they can be with a toddler that is) but the latest activity I’ve included in my daily routine is making sure I move my body - that usually means taking my daughter for a walk around my neighborhood.

Personal insta: @leslyydiaz_

Business insta: @ivyjaeco