Basic Florist Bow

• 1). Measure 8 inches from the end of a 3-yard length of ribbon and pinch firmly between thumb and index finger. Ribbon width is a personal choice.
  
  
• 2). Create a 5-inch loop, starting at the 8-inch point, and pinch tightly. This will be half the size of the finished bow. Make a second 5-inch loop across from the first and pinch over the same spot. Repeat this process forming four loops on each side.
  
  
• 3). Create a center knot by forming a small loop over the thumb. Pinch all loops together, securing at the pinched area, using floral wire. Cut a 14-inch ribbon length. Wire the middle point of the 14-inch length to the back of the floral bow creating two 7-inch bow tails. Cut the ribbon tails at a diagonal.
  
  

Pompom Bow

• 1). Form an 8-inch loop, starting at one end of a 5-yard length of ribbon. The final bow has an 8-inch diameter. If you desire a larger or smaller bow, adjust the first loop to reflect the ribbon diameter desired. Ribbon width is a personal choice.
  
  
• 2). Wrap the remaining ribbon length continuously around the initial loop until you reach the end of the ribbon end.
  
  
• 3). Flatten the bundle of loops, pushing together in the center. Press down on one end of the loop bundle and carefully cut the end edge corners at a 45-degree angle, making sure you do not cut too close to the center of the ribbon strips. Repeat this process on the other end of the flattened loop bundle. This creates the notches for the floral wire.
  
  
• 4). Loosen the loops slightly and rearrange them so that the notches, or V shapes, you have cut are so are now lined up together in the center.
  
  
• 5). Wrap the ribbon loops securely in the notches at the center, using floral wire. Pull out each ribbon loop, alternating from side to side. Twist each loop up and toward the bow center to create the pompom bow.