Way to Bow! » Bow Like a Pro!

Pleasing Little Miss Independence

admin — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 01:28:15 +0000

I was about to design a bow for my daughter to wear for our Fourth of July celebrations, but now that she is 6 (going on 20) I figured I’d better consult with Little Miss Independence first to avoid one of those last-minute battles. (You know the ones that start 30 seconds before you’re scheduled to walk out the door? Good times.)

Anyway, I was lucky enough to find an adorable Bandanna Print Hanna Andersson dress on eBay that we both love for the holiday… whew! After careful consideration, she requested a woven headband incorporating all the dress colors, and decorated with some pre-made red velvet flowers she found in my embellishment stash. “Hmm…” I said, “I don’t usually use velvet in the summer”. “Mom, they’re a perfect match!” And so they are (aside from being velvet). So we embarked on the creation of a mutually acceptable, made-to-match, woven headband.

We settled on solid Navy and Capri ribbons, as they are the primary colors in the dress, along with a patriotic Red, White and Navy stripe – perfect for the holiday. The completed weave came out pretty, though a little busy, so I tried to talk her out of the red flowers once again. Since she would not hear of it, I decided to clump them all together rather than spread them out. The end product is pretty cute and by some miracle – pleased both of us! “It doesn’t even look like you made it!” she said, thrilled. (This was supposed to be a compliment.)

Not sure how to make woven headbands? I’m a do-it-yourselfer by nature and I typically figure out how to make things through trial-and-error, but woven headbands had me totally stumped. I bought #1 Woven Headband Instructions from Devon at NoBowNoGo.com over a year ago, and was very pleased with her comprehensive and detailed directions as well as the many different weave patterns she outlines. If you plan to make more than a couple, her instructions are well worth the modest price, and I highly recommend them. I’ve been making these for my daughter, friends and customers for over a year and they are always a hit.

Wishing you and your family a peaceful Independence Day weekend!

7/5 UPDATE: I whipped up a pair of matching flops at the last minute. What a fun outfit!

No Perfect Color Match?

admin — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:48:42 +0000

Lots of designers are happy working with a limited palette and using the best color that they have on hand for their accessories. This is a perfectly rational approach. For better or worse, I am just not wired that way. I want my custom, made-to-match accessories to really match. I will go to great lengths to achieve this. From a business perspective, you need to weigh your approach: customers love perfection, but how much are they willing to pay for it? I often spend way too much time hunting down the just-right ric-rac and perfect embroidery floss – time I will never be adequately compensated for. Find the right balance for you and your customers. If you are crafting for yourself – your opinion is the only one that matters – anything goes!

I love a true color match, but it isn’t always easy, so here are some tricks to consider:

First, check both Schiff and Offray brand grosgrain for a close match. Don’t forget to check out their retired colors, many are still readily available through resellers. (Tip: If you only stock one brand, at least buy a color chart for the opposite brand, so that you can compare the colors and find the best alternative within your stock).
Check stripes, prints and dots if there isn’t a perfect solid.
If you are insistent on grosgrain, consider one that isn’t 100% polyester. Schiff makes grosgrain ribbon in a Rayon/Cotton blend (their Pattern #705) that is available in different shades. Keep in mind, though, that these grosgrains have more sheen, and perform differently, too. For example, you cannot use heat to seal them (they don’t melt like polyester) and they do not hold up as well to water. They are still a good choice for, say, a bow center.
Try taffeta, velvet or ruffle ribbon if grosgrains fail you.
Try other trims to bring in the difficult color – ric-rac, lace, rosettes, buttons, flowers, marabou, heat transfers and other embellishments often do the trick. (Stick to items intended for apparel, as these will meet flammability regulations.)
Consider buying another item in the same or similar fabric as your outfit, and using the fabric in your accessory design.

When all else fails:

Use a few similar shades next to each other, so that visually they produce the desired color effect.
Layer a sheer ribbon over a grosgrain (appropriate for dressier designs).
Limit the difficult color to only a small portion of the product if no good match is found (like the center knot on a bow).
If debating between two close, but not perfect colors, go with the more muted, or softer color. A color that is close but too bright/harsh will tend to clash or stand out, while a softer color is more likely to blend, and the imperfect match go unnoticed.

See a few examples of these techniques below:

What do you do when you can’t find the perfect match? I’d love to hear your suggestions!

Free Hair Bow Instructions Now Available

admin — Sat, 23 May 2009 12:29:27 +0000

Want to try your hand at making my popular Posh style hair bow? My free instructions are now available for download in a new e-book tutorial. Everything you need to know to make this bow in four different sizes is included! Just click on the image below to download the .pdf file. This pretty, classic bow is so easy and versatile, you will be creating your own variations in no time!

While I’ve been making bows forever, this is my first attempt at writing instructions so please let me know what you think. I plan to write several more and would love to incorporate your suggestions into future efforts, so don’t hold back!

click e-book image to download .pdf

Ribbon Flowers for Easter

admin — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 20:34:00 +0000

I thought I’d post the ribbon flower clips I’ve made to match my daughter’s Easter dress. The outfit is from Janie and Jack’s 2008 Sweet Coral Reef collection, which I managed to catch on clearance. I picked up a cheap straw hat, removed the minimal embellishments it came with, and replaced them with my own. I wrapped and hot glued a 7/8” grosgrain ribbon around the hat and clipped on two grosgrain flowers, which are attached to alligator clips. This way, she can wear the flowers on the hat, and when we remove the hat, she can wear the flowers in her hair (though they also look cute clipped to her sweater!).

I made these flowers with two layers each: 8 petals on the bottom layer, and 6 petals on the top layer. The larger flower is made with 7/8” wide grosgrain ribbon and measures about 3.5” wide (without leaves). The smaller purple flower is made with 7/8” ribbon for the bottom layer and 5/8” wide ribbon for the top layer, (though I think it may work better if it were all 5/8”, the bottom layer is a little squished). The little purple flower measures about 2.5” wide without the leaves. Attach a couple of ribbon “leaves” to the bottom, glue to a covered alligator clip and get creative with your centers.

Stay tuned for tulips!

How to Make Ribbon Rose Accessories

admin — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:08:00 +0000

I’ve recently been making ribbon flowers. It started with the daisies I made to match Gymboree’s Daisy Days collection. Fun! That got me thinking about how prevalent floral prints are in children’s apparel (especially our pretty Hannas!) and I figured I should learn to make more types of flowers. When a client asked me to make a bow to match a sweet blue floral dress, I jumped at the chance to experiment with roses. Here’s what I came up with:And here’s what I learned. There are tons of free “how to make a ribbon rose” instructions on the web, so I have no intention of rewriting them. I found at least three distinctly different approaches. I tried two of them so far.

I first attempted a Folding Method as outlined at wickihow: How to Make Silk, Satin or Ribbon Roses. I got this to work some of the time, but not all of the time, and I didn’t feel that the finished rose was particularly sturdy (though that could be due to my inexperience). My bows are often worn by kids, so I do my best to make them indestructible. I did like the rather geometric style of the rose, though, so I thought I’d give it a mention here. (If you swear by this method, give me a shout and let me know what I’m doing wrong!)

Next I tried a popular method I’ll call Wrap and Fold (creative, I know). I used these instructions: Offray’s All About Roses. You basically start at the center of the rose and wind your ribbon around the center, folding it back periodically as you go. This is really easy and the only trick is to find your rhythm as far as how much to wrap, when to fold, and what angle to fold at. This you’ll pick up quickly with minimal practice. You can also get the basic premise from watching a few minutes of this YouTube video by sewcrafty1.

Back to the bow pictured above. As you can see, I skipped the stem entirely and just made a ribbon “leaf” as the base of my hair bow, gluing a lined alligator clip to the back of the “leaf”. Important to note: I gave up sewing my bows years ago, and I’m quite convinced that hot glue and wire are the best way to go in most cases. To make my ribbon roses as strong as possible, (wire and stem free) I glued each layer of the rose at the base as I wrapped the ribbon around the center. So I did wrap, glue, fold, wrap glue fold. It was easier than it sounds and, I think, pretty sturdy. The only drawback of gluing is that you can’t later twist the rose from the center, but I did my adjustments as I went along, so it wasn’t necessary.

The larger roses shown are made with 7/8” wide ribbon and the smaller with 5/8”. The blue and white striped rose was printed only on one side, adding a bit of interest. It’s larger than the light blue rose simply because it was wrapped more times.

Design Tip: You can obviously choose any ribbons or configurations. Worth noting, though, that groups of three are generally pleasing, and varying the sizes makes it easier to create a successful composition.

I almost forgot. That Third Method I found is at Burda Style: Valentine’s Flowers. I haven’t tried it yet, but if you do, let me know what you think.

I’d love to see your creations, and feel free to post questions, thoughts, your designs and ideas!

Tip: Tack Layers for Easy Assembly

admin — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 22:26:00 +0000

When you’re making a bow with a layer of accent “spikes” it can be tricky to keep them in precisely the formation you want, while folding and cinching them. Save yourself a lot of time and frustration and simply tack them in two small spots with your wood burner. It will create two tiny holes in the first layer of ribbon, and will melt the layers together just enough to hold them in place. When done correctly, the holes are not large enough to cause any structural deficiency, and will be hidden inside the fold when assembled. (This only works with polyester ribbon.) Let me know what you think of this technique, or if you have another one to share.

OK, pet peeve: bows are too pretty to have “spikes”! Does anyone have a better term for these? Please post a comment with your suggestions. Thanks!

Tip: Try a Rotary Cutter

admin — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 02:29:00 +0000

If you’re making lots of bows, consider switching from cutting your ribbon with scissors to using a rotary cutter instead. It makes quick and easy work of cutting ribbon to the exact length for your hair accessory projects. You will require a cutting mat when using a rotary cutter, but both are easily found in sewing and craft shops (and if you use a coupon or catch a sale, you can get them for a song). Here’s what you should know:

Rotary cutters are basically a razor blade wheel with a handle. You can easily replace the blades when they dull, and they generally last a good while. There are simple and deluxe (ergonomic) models – I have found that they all seem to do the job well, so buy what suits you. If you want to try one out before buying, you might ask a sewing or quilting enthusiast – rotary cutters are a must for quilters!
I use a 24″ wide self-healing cutting mat in my studio. I recently had to replace a mat that was not self-healing, as ruts formed along my favorite cutting paths and I could no longer get a clean cut. I have been using a smaller self-healing “travel” mat for well over a year now and have not had that problem.

So give it a try – I think you will like it, and post any related thoughts/tips/advice/questions here!

Tip: Heat Transfers

admin — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:26:00 +0000

Discover the magic of heat transfers for unique and personalized bows, like this one M2M Janie and Jack’s Little Paris collection. You can use iron-on heat transfer paper to add your own graphics, text or photos to ribbon. Find the transfer paper in your local craft store or online, and choose ink jet or laser printer transfer paper based on the type of printer you’re using, and light or dark based on the shade of ribbon you’re using. Then print your favorite graphics, text or photos from your computer onto the transfer paper following the package instructions. Be sure the printed size will work with the ribbon you are using. Then iron the images onto your ribbon and create a unique bow! Be sure to trim away as much “blank space” from your design as possible before ironing to avoid excessive stiffening of the ribbon. Follow package instructions and expect to do a little experimentation before mastering the process. More examples:

Tip: The Forgotten Fold

admin — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 08:56:00 +0000

Most bow instructions focus on how to create the bow loops, and leave out the importance of the fold. After forming your loops, and before tying, sewing or wiring your bow, don’t just cinch it in the center – carefully fan-fold it for a tidy, symmetrical bow. Experiment with your fan-folds ending up (facing you) or down (facing the clip) for different affects. This will also decrease the height of the bow center, which is important when you are stacking multiple layers.

Made to Match Miracles!

admin — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 06:06:00 +0000

Here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind when making great Made to Match (M2M) hair bows:

Stock both Schiff and Offray brand grosgrain ribbons for the widest possible color selection. I also pick up additional random ribbons whenever I see a unique color – you never know when it may turn out to be just the thing you’re looking for!
Match ribbons to clothing in person and in natural light whenever possible.
When matching a collection (such as a Gymboree or Janie and Jack line), remember that there is often variation of color between fabric types i.e. the raspberry velour may be a slightly different shade than the raspberry cords! Know what outfits you’re matching, and standardize on the color of tops (as opposed to pants and skirts), as they will be closest to the bows.
Sometimes there is no exact match. In this case, I recommend going with the more muted ribbon color option rather than the brighter option, as it is less likely to appear to “clash”. Another solution is to limit the bad match to minimal accents (consider the center knot). You can also look for ric-rac and other notions/embellishments to incorporate the right color.
Be sure to match embellishments whenever possible, as using charms, rhinestones, crystals, embroidery, ric- rac, etc. that appears in the clothing to fully customize the hair accessories. They will stand out as spectacular!
Don’t just match the colors, match the style and personality of the outfit. Consider a modest design for a demure, classic Janie and Jack look, or large, fun bows packed with texture and color for a OOAK custom boutique outfit with spunk!
If you know the girl you are designing for, consider all of the above, but also keep in mind her personality, activities, and demeanor. Your bows will be beautiful, but they should complement her!

I’d love to hear any additional thoughts from bow-makers, new or experienced! Have fun bowing!

Tip: Heat-Sealing Ribbon Ends

admin — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 01:22:00 +0000

To prevent fraying, all cut edges of the ribbons used in a bow must be sealed. You can use Fray Check (sold at fabric & craft stores) or use a candle/lighter to heat-seal each end of polyester ribbon. However, if you plan to make lots of bows, I highly recommend investing $15 or so in a wood-burning tool, which you can use to cut and seal your ribbon ends in one motion, saving time and providing a more professional finished product! Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area when using any heat-sealing method, and always follow the product instructions and safety precautions. Email me if you have any questions.

Fall/Winter Color Guide 2008

admin — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 21:22:00 +0000

We’ve introduced so many new bow designs that allow you to choose your own colors, and it’s a great time to stock up for Fall… if you only knew what colors you’ll need. Well, year after year, clothing lines tend to include the same colors, so you may be able to see into the future better than you think. Here’s my Fall/Winter ribbon color guide. Use it to “DIY Design” yourself some awesome, inexpensive bows that will work with your daughter’s wardrobe all season long! Colors mentioned are actual ribbon color names (see them on the Ribbon Color Chart in the Design Center) and Gymboree lines are mentioned as examples. Email me if I can help you with matching!

BROWN
Plain and simple. Think: Girl Detective, Harvest Leaves, Equestrian Club, Mix n Match, Primrose, Cupcake Cutie, Mountain Cabin, etc. Brown has been very popular in recent years.

THE BLUES
Don’t be without classic Navy. Think: Petite Mademoiselle, Prep School, City Girl, Schoolgirl Rocks, Bon Voyage, Pretty in Plums, etc. Millennium Blue is a cool, soft blue, and already Gymboree’s choice for this year’s Petite Mademoiselle, as well as past lines: Snow Princess, Snow Blossom, and Petite Fleur. Also consider year-round favorites: Blue and Lt Blue.

ANTIQUE WHITE
You just can’t go wrong with Antique White. This is the color that most often matches the off-white/light ivory color of Gymboree’s tops. Occasionally it’s Ivory or Crème, but 99% of the time it’s Antique White. Pretty much every Fall and Winter line includes a shade of ivory, so I’m not going to list them all here! Off the top of my head, I can name a few exceptions including Harvest Leaves and Girl Detective, which matched Ivory.

CRANBERRY
Used again and again. Think: Glamour Kitty, Schoolgirl Rocks, Bon Voyage, Cherry Pie, Peruvian Doll, Mountain Cabin, etc. Red is a year-round favorite.

PRETTY IN PINKS
Love it or hate it, it’s hard to get around pink when you’re talking hair bows! You probably have several pink bows at home right now. Enough, already? Here are a few to consider. The only truly “winter” pink in my mind is Mauve (Girl Detective, Chelsea Girl). Azalia pops up now and again, as well (think Pretty in Plums). In addition, the following pinks are very popular year-round: Lt Pink (warmer), Rose Pink (cooler), Pink, Hot Pink, French Pink (warmer), Shocking Pink (cooler), Old Rose and Fantasy Rose. Check the color chart, and see which of those most of your outfits match. The bunch of them are all winners in my book.

BASIC BLACK
Depends on you. There’s usually a line or two each year that is built around black. Remember Tres Chic, Glamour Kitty, Imaginary Friend, plus the holiday lines: Holiday Classics, and Family Portrait? But, if you have a dark-haired child (see more about making it work for you below) or if you’re not really into playing up the black, you can always pick another color in the line to spotlight.

BANANA
The winter yellow. This is actually the most popular yellow used year-round, so it’s a great investment. (Only this Spring/Summer have we been seeing plenty of brighter yellows than in the recent past.) You will find Banana in lines like: Equestrian Club, Autumn Highlands and Royal Gardens. In winter, it’s most often paired with its deeper shade: Lemonade, and Lavender.

WINTER GREENS
Celadon and Spring Moss are the winter greens, as far as I’m concerned. Celadon is a widely used color year-round and makes a smart investment. You would be surprised how many lines it matches: Petite Mademoiselle, Classroom Kitty, Snow Princess, Primrose, Winter Princess, etc. Even though it may not be primary in most lines, it often coordinates. Spring Moss is a shade darker and is what you find in Girl Detective, Tyrolean Lure, etc.

PURPLES
Grosgrain ribbon does not come in a tremendous assortment of purples. Probably because purple is only just becoming a more popular apparel color the last few seasons. Just love it? You have it easy. The most popular shade is definitely Lavender. Then stock up on Tropic Lilac, Lt Orchid, and Festive Fuchsia. There is no good match for many of the deep, dark purples that have shown up in recent years, but I’m keeping my eye on new colors as they are released! (I also have much more than what is shown in the color chart, so just ask.)

A NOTE ABOUT NEUTRALS
Sometimes being economical can be well, wasteful. Huh? Consider that even though many, many popular lines include a shade of tan (think khakis) that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best choice for a bow. The thing about bows is that they’re supposed to be, you know, pretty – even on their own. So unless you really like tan, it’s probably not the best bow color. Exceptions? Your child’s hair color, of course, matters a great deal, and tan may look perfectly lovely nestled in dark or auburn locks. In general, though, pick the prettiest prominent color in the outfit to use as your bow color.

MAKING IT WORK FOR YOU (UH, HER)
Just because a color is popular, or prominent in her wardrobe, doesn’t necessarily mean it will make the best bows for your little one. Don’t forget to take into account the color of her pretty little locks! As much as I like them, brown, black and navy bows just get lost in my little brunette’s hair! Also consider whether you want her bows to make a statement (pick a bold color and/or style, and consider sizing-up) or blend in with her overall look (go for lower-profile bow styles, modest sizes and colors). Just not sure? Dabble! And remember that you can tame a wild outfit with simple solid-color bows, energize a simple outfit with over-the-top bows, or keep in line with the outfit’s overall personality by having couture bows made to match. Whatever you do, ask questions if they come up, and HAVE SOME FUN! Our girls will only be small for a short time, so enjoy the dresses and bows, along with the twirling and laughter that bring them to life!