Cutting Instructions:
1. From the fat eighth, cut the following pieces.
(1) 6” x 21” rectangle for the bow portion
(1) 2.5” x 12” rectangle for the center tie
Assembly Instructions:
For the bow:
1. Fold the 6” x 21” rectangle in half lengthwise, right sides together to form a 3” x 21” rectangle.
2. Using a quilting ruler, create a 45 degree angle on each end as shown. Your raw edges should be at the top, while you line up your quilt ruler on the corner along the folded edge.
3. Once your angles are cut, take your piece over to your sewing machine and sew along the raw edges using a ¼” seam allowance. Be sure to leave a 3” opening at the top center (where the raw edges are) so you can turn your bow inside out.
4. Snip the ends of your pointed pieces for easier turning. Be careful not to snip the stiches.
5. Turn your bow inside out and use a pencil or other pointy tool to get your points nice and sharp. Press flat.
6. Sew the opening shut using an edge stitch (1/8” or less). Use coordinating thread as the stitching will show.
7. Take your piece and fold each end across as shown below.
8. Flip the folded piece over and fold/pinch towards the middle. Use a binder clip or piece of string to hold the folds in place.
For the center tie:
1. Take your 2.5” x 12” rectangle and fold end the short ends ¼” in, wrong sides together, and press.
2. Then fold the rectangle is half lengthwise and press, wrong sides together, to create a crease along the center.
3. Take your long raw edges and fold towards the center crease you just created.
4. Fold again so all the raw edges are enclosed.
5. Take to your machine and using an edge stitch, sew around all the edges.
Final Assembly
1. Remove the binder clip or string from the bow section. Wrap the center tie you just created so the bow is in the middle of the tie.
2. Arrange the tie neatly and hold the tie so that it is as tight as possible around the bow’s middle.
3. Using the zipper foot on your machine, sew a seam as close as possible to the bow, being sure not to sew into the bow. Make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end.
4. Once the seam is complete, you can fluff the bow again and straighten it out.
There you go! A pretty fabric bow that can be used as a Christmas decoration or for any occasion that calls for bow.
You can even use them on gifts. Just shorten the middle tie and use hot glue to glue the tie around the middle instead of sewing it. The hot glue method would also work to attach your bow to a barrette. Perfect for a holiday portrait!
I would love to see your finished bows and how you use them. Be sure to tag me on Instagram using @midlife_quilter so I can see and share!
From my family to yours, I wish you the happiest of holidays.
