
Steps to Create a Sailors Bow with Grosgrain Ribbon
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Did you know that nearly 60% of DIY enthusiasts say ribbons are their favorite way to add a personal touch? It’s no surprise—ribbon bows bring charm and style to everything from hair clips and gift bags to clothes and party décor.
A simple satin bow on a gift or a bright grosgrain bow on a headband can make any craft feel extra special and unique. Adding a small, handmade bow could be the perfect finishing touch to your next project. Have you tried using ribbons in your crafts yet?
What Can You Make With Grosgrain Ribbon?
Grosgrain ribbon is great for making all kinds of hair accessories, like headbands, hair ties, and bows. It’s sturdy, so it keeps its shape, which is perfect for styles that need structure. You can pick colors and patterns to match your outfits or create unique looks.
Besides hair accessories, grosgrain ribbon also works well for keychains, bag charms, and gift-wrapping bows, adding a personalized touch to any project.
8 Steps to Create a Sailors Bow with Grosgrain Ribbon

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Ribbon
Begin by measuring and cutting a piece of grosgrain ribbon. For a standard-sized sailor bow, about 24 inches in length works well, giving you enough ribbon to form full loops and tails. If you want a larger bow, try using a longer piece, around 30 inches, and for a smaller bow, shorten it to 18 inches.
Cutting the ribbon ends at an angle helps prevent fraying and gives a neat, finished look. You can also cut the ends in a “V” shape if you prefer a more decorative finish. Remember, getting the right length is key to making a balanced, well-shaped bow.
Step 2: Fold the Ribbon in Half
Take the ribbon and fold it in half to find the exact center. This step helps make sure your bow will be even on both sides, creating a balanced look. Once folded, gently press down to mark the center, but avoid creasing it too sharply—just enough to give you a light guide.
If you want, you can even mark the center lightly with a pencil or pin. This small step will make it easier to keep the loops and tails of your bow equal as you continue crafting.

Step 3: Create Loops for the Bow
Take both ends of the ribbon and bring them toward the center, where you made the fold. Position the ends so they overlap slightly in the middle—this overlap helps hold the bow shape securely. You should see two loops on the top with a tail on each side.
Adjust the loops carefully to make sure they’re equal in size, as this will give your bow a balanced and neat look. Try to keep the loops smooth and even, so they sit flat and don’t twist. Taking a moment here to get the loops just right will make the final bow look polished and well-made.
Step 4: Pinch the Center
Once your loops are even, pinch the ribbon right in the center where both ends meet. This pinch is what gives the bow its classic "sailor" shape, making the loops stand out and creating a neat, defined look. Pinching the center also helps keep everything in place, so the bow doesn’t lose its shape.
For extra stability, you can add a small dab of hot glue to hold the pinch securely. Press and hold the center for a few seconds to let the glue set, ensuring the bow keeps its form. This simple step is key to creating a professional, polished sailor bow.

Step 5: Wrap a Small Piece of Ribbon Around the Center
To make your bow look neat and finished, cut a small piece of ribbon, about 2 inches long, to wrap around the center, or thread a wide stitch through it. This piece covers the pinch where the loops meet, adding a polished touch. Wrap the small ribbon tightly around the middle to hold the bow’s shape, ensuring the ends meet at the back.
Apply a dab of hot glue or fabric glue to secure it, pressing gently until it dries. This extra wrap not only hides any glue or stitches but also gives the bow a clean, professional look that stands out.
Step 6: Adjust the Loops and Tails
With the center secure, take a moment to adjust the loops and tails of the bow for the best shape. Gently pull each loop outward to make them appear fuller and even. Make sure both loops are the same size for a balanced look.
If the tails seem too long or uneven, trim them carefully at an angle or in a "V" shape for a clean, polished finish. This final step adds a professional touch, making your sailor bow look neat and perfectly styled.

Step 7: Add Finishing Touches (Optional)
If you’d like to give your sailor bow a unique look, try adding embellishments to the center. Small gems, buttons, or even tiny flowers can make the bow look extra special and eye-catching. You could also add a dab of glitter glue around the edges or in the center for some sparkle.
This step is completely optional but can really enhance the bow’s appearance, especially for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or themed parties. Just make sure to securely glue or sew any decorations so they stay in place.
Step 8: Attach the Bow to Your Project
Now that your sailor bow is ready, it’s time to attach it to your project! For a hair clip, apply a small dot of hot glue to the back of the bow and press it onto the clip base, holding it in place for a few seconds to secure it firmly. Make sure the bow is centered on the clip for a balanced look.
To add the bow to a gift bag, place a dot of glue where you want it, then press the bow down firmly. You can add smaller bows around the bag for extra decoration. Satin ribbon and grosgrain ribbon bows also look great on headbands, wreaths, or clothing—just use the same gluing method to attach them securely.
What Are Some Tips for Making a Perfect Sailor Bow?
- Use Grosgrain Ribbon: Grosgrain ribbon is strong with a ribbed texture that helps it keep its shape, making it perfect for a sturdy sailor bow. It comes in many colors and patterns, from solid colors to fun prints like polka dots and stripes. Choosing the right color or pattern can make your bow unique and fit any project.
- Practice Pinching the Center: The center pinch gives your bow its balanced shape. Fold the ribbon in half to find the center, make a small crease, and pinch tightly. If you’re using glue, hold the pinch for a few seconds to keep the shape. With a little practice, you’ll make neat, professional bows faster and with confidence.
- Use Quality Glue: Hot glue works well because it dries fast and holds firmly, keeping your bow in shape, especially for hair accessories. Use a small amount to avoid mess. Place the bow on a heat-safe surface and press gently for a strong hold.
Make Gifts Unique with a Simple Sailor Bow
Some may think that making a sailor bow with grosgrain ribbon is too simple to add any real value to DIY projects or gifts. They might see it as a small craft that doesn’t make a big impact. However, adding a handmade sailor bow can create a personal touch that store-bought items often lack. A well-made bow adds charm and thoughtfulness, making gifts feel unique.
Want to make the perfect sailor bow with ease? Start with top-quality grosgrain ribbon from BBCrafts! Our ribbons come in all colors and patterns, perfect for adding a personal touch to your DIY projects. If it’s for hair accessories, gift bags, or home décor, BBCrafts has everything you need to make your creations stand out.
Shop now to grab the supplies you need and start crafting your perfect sailor bow today! Our high-quality ribbons will make your projects shine.
Key Takeaways
Ribbons Add a Personal Touch
Almost 60% of DIY fans use ribbons to give their projects a unique, personalized look. A simple bow on hair clips, gift bags, or even clothes can instantly make any project feel more thoughtful and special. If it’s for a gift or your own décor, a well-made bow with grosgrain or organza ribbon adds an extra layer of charm.
Grosgrain Ribbon is Perfect for Crafting
Grosgrain ribbon’s ribbed, sturdy texture keeps the bow’s shape beautifully, making it a top choice for hair accessories, bag charms, and gift-wrapping. It comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, so you can pick styles that match your outfit, theme, or occasion. This versatility lets you create bows that stand out while staying durable.
Simple Steps to a Professional Look
Making a sailor bow is easy if you follow the basic steps: cut, fold, pinch, and secure. These simple techniques help you achieve a clean, polished bow that looks handmade but high-quality. With a little practice, you’ll be able to create bows quickly that add charm to any DIY project, from hair accessories to party décor, making each item feel more special and crafted with care.