how to make sailor bow

Hey there, lovely creators! 🎀

​Ever look at those perfectly preppy, high-end boutique hair bows and think, "I could totally make that"? Well, today is the day we turn that thought into your next favorite creation! 

​Whether you're a seasoned sewing pro or a beginner looking for a rewarding weekend project, this step-by-step guide will make the process an absolute breeze. Grab your favorite fabric, warm up your iron, and let’s get crafting!

Now it is tine to make your own sailor bow in the colors you want to complement your outfits or your garments. They would be a great item to add. Making a sailor bow takes only 10 minutes and you can use your scraps in your stash.

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the fabric

You will need: 
28 x 20 cm for the main part of the bow
16 x 32 cm for the tail
5 x 9 cm for the center bow strip

Step 2: Prepare the main bow

  • Fold the 28x20 cm rectangle in half lenghtwise, right sides together. Sew along one side shown as in the image below, leaving an opening in the center.
  • Align the sewn part through the center, place 13x20 cm batting under this piece and then sew along the left and right sides of  it. You sew them together with the batting.

  •  Now turn right side out and press with iron. Fold it in an accordion style right down the middle. This creates the bunching of the bow. Secure it with a pin and run multiple stitches through the center, so that it has the bow shape.

Step 3: Prepare the tail of the bow

  • Fold the long tail fabric in half, then fold again in half. Using your quilting ruler, align it to cut from the fold outwards. You will be cutting both tails at the same time so that you can ensure the symmetry. 

  • Fold tail piece right sides together , matching the angled cuts. Pin along the diagonal sides and the bottom straight edge.
  •  Stitch all the way around, leaving a substantial opening in the center of the bottom edge for turning.
  • Turn right side out through the small openings you left and give it a good press.
  •  Use a pin or a small clip to find the exact center of the panel. Secure it with a pin.

Step 4: Prepare the center bow strip

  • Fold the 9×5 cm fabric piece longitudinally in half rigt sides together and sew along the long side.
  • Turn inside out and press with iron.

Step 5: Final assembly

  • Now you have the three pieces ready to assembly.
  • Pinch the enter of the large tail piece and secure it right under the gathered center of the main bow.
  • Take your center strip, bend and wrap it around the joint centers. Flip the bow over and secure the knot band neatly with needle and thread.
And you are done!

You have a perfect Sailor Bow with sharp folds, elegant tail and a clean center knot.