The Artful Bow: Mastering The Square Vase Wrap

Adding a bow to a square vase is a simple way to elevate your flower arrangements. It can add a personal touch to the decorative vases in your home or make a bouquet of flowers you are giving as a gift look extra special. You can use a single ribbon to make a simple bow or use two ribbons for a more complex look. If you're using two ribbons, consider choosing a complementary colour or texture for the second ribbon. For example, you could use raffia ribbon or twine for a rustic look. When you're happy with your bow, you can adjust the length of the tails or cut them into a V-shape for a banner look.

Choosing the right ribbon

Colour and Pattern:

Complement the vase and your bouquet or cut flowers with your ribbon choice. If your flowers are all one colour, consider a patterned ribbon that highlights that colour. Alternatively, if your bouquet is vibrant with various colours and textures, opt for a solid-coloured ribbon. You can also play with different textures by adding a complementary ribbon for a pop of interest. For instance, try pairing a lush velvet ribbon with a rustic raffia ribbon for a unique look.

Width and Length:

The width of the ribbon should mirror the proportions of the vase. For a square vase, a wider ribbon will create a bolder statement. When it comes to length, always allow for extra ribbon before cutting it off the spool. You can always trim the excess, but if the ribbon is too short, you may need to start over. As a general rule, a ribbon length between 15 and 20 inches will create a nice-sized bow, but adjust this measurement according to the thickness of your ribbon.

Type of Ribbon:

The type of ribbon you choose will impact the overall look and ease of creating your bow. For example, stiffer ribbons like organdy or raffia are great for large, voluminous bows, while fabric ribbons like silk or velvet tend to droop if the bow is too large. Wired ribbons are excellent for creating structured, dramatic bows, as the wired edges allow you to mould the ribbon into the desired shape.

Embellishments:

Don't be afraid to add some extra flair to your ribbon. You can cut the ends of the ribbon tails into a V-shape for a stylish banner trim or add some shine with self-adhesive rhinestones. Get creative and experiment with different embellishments to make your square vase truly unique!

Adding a complementary ribbon

Once you have chosen your complementary ribbon, experiment with wrapping both ribbons around the vase to decide on the length of the complementary ribbon. Cut the complementary ribbon with room to spare, cutting the end on a diagonal line for the cleanest edge. If you are using two ribbons, line them up so that the thinner ribbon is stacked on top of the thicker ribbon. Loop them around the vase and tie them in a bow as if they were a single ribbon.

If your ribbons are different in texture, you may want to adjust the size of the bows individually. You can also play around with the length and shape of the tails of the ribbons. For example, you could cut the tail of a wide, flat ribbon into a V-shape to create a banner look.

Cutting the ribbon

When it comes to cutting the ribbon, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a clean finish. First, cut the ribbon with a sharp pair of scissors to avoid any fraying or uneven edges. You want to cut the ribbon with room to spare, so it comfortably wraps around the vase with enough length for a bow. Experiment with wrapping the ribbon around the vase to decide if you want a large or small bow, and cut accordingly.

If you are using two ribbons of different textures, you may need to cut them at different lengths. For example, if one ribbon is stiff and the other is made of fabric, the fabric ribbon may need to be shorter to avoid a droopy bow.

Once you have the desired length, you can proceed to tie the ribbon around the vase and create your bow.

Tying the ribbon and making a simple bow

Next, cut your ribbon with room to spare. Experiment with wrapping the ribbon around the vase to decide on the length. Cut the ribbon ends at a diagonal line for the cleanest edge. If you have two ribbons, line them up so that the thinner ribbon is on top of the thicker one, and loop them around the vase together.

Now, tie the ribbon around the neck of the vase and make a simple bow. If you have two ribbons, consider letting their tails be noticeably different in length. You can also change the shape of the tails. For example, cut the tail of a wide, flat ribbon into a V-shape to create a banner look.

Finally, adjust the length of the tails as desired.

Adjusting the length of the tails

When it comes to adjusting the length of the tails of your bow, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, consider the overall look you are aiming for. If you are using two ribbons, you might want their tails to be noticeably different in length. Play around with this idea and see what looks best to you.

Another thing to consider is the shape of the tails. For example, you could cut the tail of a wide, flat ribbon into a V-shape, creating a banner-like effect. To do this, place your scissors at the bottom corner of one of the ribbon tails. Snip diagonally upwards, stopping before you reach the centre of the ribbon. Then, place your scissors on the other tail corner and make a matching cut towards the centre of the ribbon. This will give you a neat V-shape.

If you are using a single ribbon, you can still adjust the tail length to your liking. Cut the ends diagonally for a clean edge, or get creative and experiment with different shapes. You could try cutting a curve, a zigzag, or even adding some fun, complementary stickers to the ends.

Remember, when adjusting the length of the tails, it's always better to cut off less than you think you need. You can always cut off more if needed, but you can't add length back once it's been cut!

Frequently asked questions