How To Make Grosgrain Ribbon Bows

I once spent hours trying to wrap the perfect gift for my niece’s birthday. The paper was smooth, the colors matched her style—but something still felt off. It was the bow. No matter how many times I tied it, fluffed it, or adjusted it, it just wouldn’t sit right. I tried satin, wired, even curling ribbon, but none gave me that crisp, polished look I had in mind.

That night, I stumbled across something I hadn’t considered before—a specific kind of ribbon that not only looked elegant but also held its shape beautifully.

But what if the secret to stunning gifts, stylish crafts, and eye-catching décor came down to the way you tie a single ribbon?

What Is a Grosgrain Ribbon Made Of?

The word "grosgrain" describes the ribbon’s weave, not the material it's made from. While it was originally made from natural fibers like silk or wool, modern grosgrain ribbon is usually made from synthetic materials such as polyester or rayon. At BBcrafts, our grosgrain ribbon is made from 100% polyester, offering excellent strength, flexibility, and value.

5-Step DIY Grosgrain Ribbon Bows

Learn how to make a grosgrain ribbon bow in 5 easy steps. This guide works well with plain or custom printed ribbon for gifts, crafts, or hair clips.

Materials You Will Need

Before starting, gather the following materials:

• Wide grosgrain ribbon (2.25 inches wide) – Use a ribbon that is long enough to make four loops and have two tails. This tutorial works well with custom printed grosgrain ribbon or plain styles.
• Scissors – For cutting the ribbon and trimming the ends neatly.
• Thread or thin wire – To tie the center of the bow securely.
• Hot glue gun (optional) – For attaching the center wrap or decorations.
• Small piece of ribbon for the center – This will cover the tied part and give a polished look.
• Embellishments (optional) – Such as rhinestones or buttons for decoration.

If you work with large quantities, you can use wholesale grosgrain ribbon by the roll for convenience and better value.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Create the Loops

Begin by folding your grosgrain ribbon back and forth to form a bow shape:

• Make four equal loops – two on each side.
• Let the ribbon ends (the tails) hang down below the loops.
• Make sure all loops are even to keep the grosgrain ribbon bow symmetrical and neat.

2. Pinch and Secure the Center

Next, form the basic shape of the bow:

• Pinch the ribbon in the center so it creates an accordion shape.
• Tie a piece of strong thread or thin wire around the center to hold the shape tightly.
• Pull the thread firmly but carefully to avoid breaking it.

3. Shape and Adjust the Bow

Once the bow is secured:

• Fluff out the loops gently to give the bow a rounded and full appearance.
• Adjust the loops and tails until they are evenly arranged.
• This step is important to get the professional look typical of a grosgrain ribbon bow.

4. Finish the Center of the Bow

To give the bow a clean finish:

• Cut a small piece of ribbon and wrap it around the center to cover the thread or wire.
• Use hot glue to secure it at the back.
• You may also add an embellishment like a button or jewel to the center, especially when using custom printed grosgrain ribbon for extra style.

5. Trim and Seal the Ribbon Tails

To complete the bow:

• Trim the tails to your preferred length.
• Cut the ends straight, angled, or in a “V” shape for a polished finish.
• Use heat or a fray-stopping product to seal the ends and prevent unraveling.

Additional Tips

• This method works with any wide grosgrain ribbon, including printed or plain varieties.
• You can use wholesale grosgrain ribbon by the roll if you're making bows in bulk for retail, events, or gift packaging.
• Practicing a few times will help you get consistent, professional results.
• These bows are perfect for hair accessories, gift wrapping, clothing embellishments, and craft projects.

What Is Grosgrain Ribbon Used For?

Grosgrain ribbon is known for its strong texture and clean appearance, making it useful for many types of projects. It’s commonly used in sewing, crafts, and home décor, and works well with both plain and custom printed grosgrain ribbon. Below are some of the most popular uses:

Sewing and Clothing Projects

Grosgrain ribbon is often used in sewing to add trim or facing to clothing. It can be stitched directly onto fabric, making it ideal for finishing hems on skirts, dresses, sleeves, and necklines. A wide grosgrain ribbon offers a clean, matte look and is often used in formal wear, such as tuxedo trousers, as an alternative to satin trim. For tuxedo braid, a 7/8" black grosgrain ribbon is a standard choice.

In hat making, also known as millinery, grosgrain ribbon is used to make hat bands, bows, and other decorative shapes for hats and fascinators.

Crafting and Accessories

Grosgrain ribbon is popular in crafting because it holds its shape well and is easy to use. It’s perfect for both flat and shaped decorations. One of the most common uses is making a grosgrain ribbon bow, which is ideal for hair clips, hats, gift wrapping, and more.

Its strength also makes it useful in bookbinding to reinforce spines. You can use custom printed grosgrain ribbon to add a personal touch to projects like greeting cards, scrapbooks, bookmarks, and wall decorations.

Home Décor

In home décor, grosgrain ribbon can be used as a trim or accent. A wide grosgrain ribbon works well for edging table runners, curtains, pillows, or placemats. It can also be used to create curtain ties, napkin rings, or even decorative lampshades. Some even use it to trim upholstered furniture for a finished look.

Where Crafting Ends, BBcrafts Begins

The right ribbon doesn’t just hold things together—it tells a story. A flat, floppy bow can ruin the look of a gift or craft, but a crisp grosgrain ribbon bow adds that wow factor. It’s the kind of detail people notice, even if they don’t say it out loud.

At BBcrafts, we know ribbon matters. That’s why we offer high-quality grosgrain ribbon, including custom printed grosgrain ribbon, wide grosgrain ribbon, and wholesale grosgrain ribbon by the roll. Whether you're creating bows for gifts, hair accessories, or event décor, our ribbons are made to hold their shape and stand out.

So next time you reach for just any ribbon—stop. Choose one that works as hard as you do. BBcrafts ribbon isn’t just a supply; it’s the finishing touch that brings your entire project together.

Craft bold. Wrap smart. Tie with BBcrafts.

Key Takeaways

The Right Ribbon Makes All the Difference

A crisp, polished grosgrain ribbon bow can instantly upgrade your gift wrapping, crafts, or decorations. Unlike flimsy alternatives, grosgrain holds its shape beautifully and looks professional every time.

It’s Easier Than You Think

With just five steps and a few basic tools, anyone can create bows that look store-bought. Whether you're using custom printed grosgrain ribbon or plain styles, this method works for all skill levels.

Stock Up the Smart Way with BBcrafts

For big projects or regular crafting, using wide grosgrain ribbon or buying wholesale grosgrain ribbon by the roll from BBcrafts saves money and ensures you always have the perfect ribbon on hand.