Christmas Bows can be used in several ways during the holiday season. Christmas decorating would not be complete without beautifully wrapped Christmas presents topped with festive holiday bows. Homemade Christmas bows can also become beautiful Christmas tree toppers. Christmas bows are a great way to add cheer to your home and your packages.

Making your own bows and decorating them adds flair and personality to them. It also shows that you put more time into them than just peeling and sticking it to a gift. The recipient will be appreciative of the time that you took to make their gift even more special.

• Ribbon is simply a narrow piece of fabric, often tied up in a decorative way.http://www.weddingchannel.com/favors/buildArticle.action?assetUID=3506&c=3506&s=105&t=13&p=1495&l=115443 Typically, ribbon is made from silk, cotton, rayon, or nylon. However, they are defined more by the way they are woven.http://www.marthastewart.com/article/ribbon-glossary-2?autonomy_kw=types%20of%20ribbon&rsc=header_1 Although red and green are traditional Christmas colors, you may want to pick a ribbon with a pattern that coordinates with your home's decor. If you can't, stick to using more universal colors like silver and gold.http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=howTo&p=HomeDecor/HolidayDecoratingTips.html

• Here are some of the more popular types of ribbon used at Christmas time.
  • Curling ribbon is designed to coil when drawn across a hard surface, like the blunt edge of a scissors.http://books.google.com/books?id=EIKe5ZaCebAC&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_summary_r&cad=0#PPA8,M1
  • Jacquard ribbon has an intricate woven pattern on it.http://www.weddingchannel.com/favors/buildArticle.action?assetUID=3505&c=3505&s=105&t=13&p=1495&l=2724
  • Metallic ribbon gets its sparkly looks from metallic fibers.http://www.marthastewart.com/article/ribbon-glossary-2?autonomy_kw=types%20of%20ribbon&rsc=header_1
  • Picot Edge ribbon is a smooth ribbon with small loops made of thread along the edges.http://www.weddingchannel.com/favors/buildArticle.action?assetUID=3505&c=3505&s=105&t=13&p=1495&l=2724
  • Poly ribbon is smooth and made out of polypropylene.http://giftbasketonlinenewsletter.com/blog/category/ribbon/ It may also be weather-resistant.http://www.masterbow.com/pages/descriptions.php
  • Raffia, which comes from a fiber made of leaves, is similar to twine.http://www.weddingchannel.com/favors/buildArticle.action?assetUID=3506&c=3506&s=105&t=13&p=1495&l=115443
  • Satin ribbon is smooth surface with a shine on one side.http://www.jkmribbon.com/know.html#info2 It is inexpensive and easy to hold, which makes it good for beginners.http://www.craftown.com/instruction/bows.htm
    • 1. Double-faced satin ribbon is glossy on both sides.http://www.zestbit.com/pmtvoice/view/Personalized-Ribbon.aspx
      2. Two-sided satin ribbon has different colored sides.http://www.zestbit.com/pmtvoice/view/Personalized-Ribbon.aspx
  • Velvet ribbon is thick with a soft surface on one side].http://www.weddingchannel.com/favors/buildArticle.action?assetUID=3506&c=3506&s=105&t=13&p=1495&l=115443 It can be difficult for beginners to use.http://www.craftown.com/instruction/bows.htm

• Most varieties of ribbon are available in both wired and non-wired varieties. Most bows can be made using either type of wire. However, some bows (that are cut) require non-wired ribbon.
  • Non-wired ribbon is more versatile and allows you to use multiple colors if you wish.http://giftbasketonlinenewsletter.com/blog/category/ribbon/
  • Wired ribbon has a thin line of wire on one or both sides.http://www.weddingchannel.com/favors/buildArticle.action?assetUID=3506&c=3506&s=105&t=13&p=1495&l=115443 It holds its shape easier and is nearly "crush-proof."http://www.craftown.com/instruction/bows.htm It allows you to adjust it until you get the bow as you want it.http://interiordec.about.com/cs/christmasplanning/l/blcmaswrap2.htm

• Bows are a great, inexpensive way to decorate your home for Christmas. You can make almost anything holiday-themed by gluing a few red or green bows onto it.http://www.allthingschristmas.com/decoration-ideas.php For beginners, it may be best to start making bows using cheaper ribbon. However, once you get better at making your bows, you will want to invest in more expensive ribbon and save your bows for use every year.http://www.interiorandhealth.com/blog/decorating-your-home-for-christmas/ Here are a few ideas on how to use bows in your holiday decor.

1. Decorate any tree (indoors or out) using a few strand of lights with some red and green bows.http://www.interiorandhealth.com/blog/decorating-your-home-for-christmas/

2. Add bows to your houseplants (either around a container or on the branches).http://www.interiorandhealth.com/blog/decorating-your-home-for-christmas/

3. Pin bows to your curtains or use them as tiebacks.http://www.allthingschristmas.com/decoration-ideas.php

4. Tie bows around your banister.http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=howTo&p=HomeDecor/HolidayDecoratingTips.html

5. Other places you should consider adding bows include on entryway mirrors, sconces, mailboxes, mantels and handrails.http://www.familycorner.com/homegarden/desrep/bows.shtml

1. Decorate your bathroom by gluing bows (and other unbreakable ornaments) to the outside of a shower curtain.http://www.allthingschristmas.com/decoration-ideas.php

2. Adorn inexpensive lampshades with fabric bows and use them on your lamps at Christmas.http://www.allthingschristmas.com/decoration-ideas.php

3. Tie a bow around a few cinnamon sticks for an attractive way to scent your home.http://www.allthingschristmas.com/decoration-ideas.php

4. Hang a large bow at the top of a piece of ribbon and use it to attach any Christmas cards you receive.http://www.allthingschristmas.com/decoration-ideas.php

5. Make "Christmas bears" by tying bows around the necks of stuffed bears.http://www.allthingschristmas.com/decoration-ideas.php

6. Place several poly bows on a door or other flat surface in the shape of a tree, a wreath, or even spell out "Merry Christmas."http://www.decoratewithbows.com/faq.shtml

1. Tie a bow around each napkin and place one atop the place setting.http://www.marthastewart.com/article/fit-to-be-tied?lnc=8b99cf380e1dd010VgnVCM1000005b09a00aRCRD&page=3&rsc=articlecontent_weddings You could even insert a candy cane.

2. Make holiday place mats by gluing ribbon and bows to red or green place mats.http://www.allthingschristmas.com/decoration-ideas.php

3. Tie red, green or gold bows around the stems of your wine glasses.http://www.allthingschristmas.com/decoration-ideas.php

4. Tie bows around the candlesticks.http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=howTo&p=HomeDecor/HolidayDecoratingTips.html

5. Tie bows around the outside spindles of your chairs.http://www.designingonline.com/dreamsalive/christmas2001/features/holidaytips/

1. Use oversized bows on your front or garage doors.http://www.interiorandhealth.com/blog/decorating-your-home-for-christmas/
2. Create a giant present by covering your doors with paper and adding a bow.http://bathroomguru.com/wordpress/2008/10/30/how-to-create-a-modern-christmas-theme-for-your-bathroom-inspirational-bathroom-decoration-ideas-to-bring-out-the-child-in-you-for-the-holiday-season.html
3. Tie bows on the door handles in your house.http://www.interiorandhealth.com/blog/decorating-your-home-for-christmas/
4. Tie a few bells together using a ribbon, then tie it above your doors so the bells will ring when the door is opened.http://www.allthingschristmas.com/decoration-ideas.php
5. Tie a bow around your door knocker.http://www.designingonline.com/dreamsalive/christmas2001/features/holidaytips/

• While it can be tempting to simply stick a bow on top of your package, it can be more rewarding (for you and the recipient) if you spend a little time touching up the bow on top of the gift. Here are some tips on how to enhance your gift's bow:

1. You can curl the ends of your ribbon using a scissors. Lightly press the ribbon between your thumb and the blunt end of a pair of scissors. Gently pull the ribbon through in a downward direction. The amount of curl depends on the amount of pressure you use.http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/h2g2/A18355728
2. Instead of tape, use stickers to attach your ribbon or bows.http://www.momcentral.com/special-occasions/wrapping-presents.html
3. Shred the ends of your ribbons after curling using your fingernail or a scissors to separate the ends and pulling gently.http://www.expertvillage.com/video/4664_gift-wrapping-ribbon.htm
4. Choose a color of ribbon that contrasts nicely with your wrapping paper, such as a black bow on white paper.http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/h2g2/A18355728
5. Don't be afraid to use more than one color.http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/h2g2/A18355728

• If you want to wrap the ribbon around your package before tying your bow, there are a couple of ways to do it. The simplest method is to wrap the ribbon once around the box and then tie your bow without knotting the ribbon in the center.http://www.shopheidi.com/Wrap_Beautifully/How_To_Tie_A_Bow/ This eliminates the need to hold the knot. You can also wrap the ribbon around the corners of your box.http://www.expertvillage.com/video/4664_gift-wrapping-ribbon.htm However, if you want to wrap the ribbon around both directions, here's how to do it:

1. Place your box on top of your ribbon. One end of the ribbon should be slightly longer than the other.
2. Wrap the ribbon around the length of your box.http://www.marthastewart.com/article/the-perfect-package?autonomy_kw=gift%20wrapping&rsc=header_74
3. When you get to the center, cross the two pieces of ribbon.http://www.marthastewart.com/article/the-perfect-package?autonomy_kw=gift%20wrapping&rsc=header_74
4. Wrap the longer end of ribbon around the width of your box.http://www.marthastewart.com/article/the-perfect-package?autonomy_kw=gift%20wrapping&rsc=header_74
5. Tie the two ends of ribbon in a single knot.http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/rb_other/article/0,,diy_14219_2268351,00.html
6. Place your thumb on the center or ask a helper to hold the knot with one finger.http://www.marthastewart.com/article/the-perfect-package?autonomy_kw=gift%20wrapping&rsc=header_74 http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/rb_other/article/0,,diy_14219_2268351,00.html

• Once your ribbon is wrapped around your package, you can use the ends to tie a classic bow or winged bow.

• No matter how fancy your bow is, embellishing it will always make it look a little nicer. When considering what to add, you might want to try and match the item to your wrapping paper. For example, use a reindeer ornament on a gift wrapped in reindeer paper.http://www.pioneerthinking.com/aab_giftwrap.html While this section focuses on embellishing bows on packages, many of these methods can be used to embellish bows hung other places as well.

1. Tape two candy canes facing each other so they make a heart.http://www.momcentral.com/special-occasions/wrapping-presents.html
2. Tuck a piece of artificial greenery or a few pine sprigs next to the bow.http://interiordec.about.com/cs/cmasgiftproj/l/blcmaswrap1.htm
3. Cut out holiday shapes from felt to use. Punch a hole into the shape and add to the ribbon or bow.http://www.marthastewart.com/good-thing/sealed-with-mistletoe?autonomy_kw=gift%20wrapping&rsc=header_120
4. Thread a few bells on to a piece of cord and tie to the bow.http://www.marthastewart.com/good-thing/sealed-with-mistletoe?autonomy_kw=gift%20wrapping&rsc=header_120
5. If you have an old Christmas carol book (or print out pages from the net), roll up a sheet of it and tie it with a ribbon. Then, add it to your package.http://www.threadbanger.com/hollyjolly/episode/HJH_20071219
6. Add a few living pieces of greenery to your packages if you are taking them to a party.http://www.threadbanger.com/hollyjolly/episode/HJH_20071219
7. Use wired tinsel to create stars on top of your packages.http://www.marthastewart.com/good-things/tinsel-stars?autonomy_kw=gift%20wrapping&rsc=header_134
8. For a daintier look, use miniature ornaments, pine cones or small sprigs on your package.http://www.marthastewart.com/good-things/gift-tags?autonomy_kw=gift%20wrapping&rsc=header_84
9. For small packages, attach tiny wooden cutouts from a craft store.http://christmas4all.blogspot.com/2006/12/last-minute-christmas-gift-wrap-ideas.html
10. Write the person's name onto a miniature stocking using a glitter pen and tie it to the present.http://www.pioneerthinking.com/aab_giftwrap.html
11. Silk flowers such as poinsettias can be inserted or tied to the bow.http://www.pioneerthinking.com/aab_giftwrap.html
12. Tie a few cinnamon sticks with a ribbon and attach.http://www.pioneerthinking.com/aab_giftwrap.html
13. Add glitter to highlight your bow. Use a glue pen to draw on your package, ribbon or bow. Then, sprinkle the glue with glitter or Christmas confetti.http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/h2g2/A18355728
14. Instead of ribbon, wrap a band of contrasting wrapping paper around the package.http://christmas4all.blogspot.com/2006/12/last-minute-christmas-gift-wrap-ideas.html
15. Cut out images from last year's Christmas cards and use them as gift tags or decoration on top of packages.http://www.realsimple.com/realsimple/package/0,21861,1683690-1137821-5,00.html
16. Other embellishments can include pine cones, berry picks, mistletoe and red bells.http://christmas4all.blogspot.com/2006/12/last-minute-christmas-gift-wrap-ideas.html

• Double gifts are items you can use with or instead of bows on your packages that are presents in and of themselves.

1. Use fancy ponytail holders to tie packages (especially good for gift bags).http://www.realsimple.com/realsimple/package/0,21861,1683690-1137821-3,00.html
2. Attach an ornament to the bow of packages.http://www.momcentral.com/special-occasions/wrapping-presents.html You can use wire, ribbon or hot glue to secure them onto the package.http://christmas4all.blogspot.com/2006/12/last-minute-christmas-gift-wrap-ideas.html
3. Attach a small toy on top of packages for children.http://www.momcentral.com/special-occasions/wrapping-presents.html
4. For a child's gift, use a jump rope around the package instead of holiday ribbon.http://www.realsimple.com/realsimple/package/0,21861,1683690-1137821-2,00.html
5. After tying ribbon around your package, attach a floral brooch or Christmas pin to the knot.http://christmas4all.blogspot.com/2006/12/last-minute-christmas-gift-wrap-ideas.html
6. Take a piece of ribbon that is long enough to wrap around the present. Cut slots into the narrow ends of a gift tag. Thread tag onto the ribbon and attach it to your present.http://www.marthastewart.com/article/holiday-gift-adornments?autonomy_kw=gift%20wrapping&rsc=header_96
7. Lace your ribbon with wooden or plastic beads before using.http://www.howdini.com/howdini-video-7260087.html
8. For a man's gift, use a holiday neck-tie instead of ribbon.http://www.howdini.com/howdini-video-7260087.html
9. For a woman's gift, use a nice scarf instead of the ribbon.http://www.howdini.com/howdini-video-7260087.html
10. For music lovers, roll up the sheet music of their favorite Christmas carol and tie it with a ribbon.http://www.threadbanger.com/hollyjolly/episode/HJH_20071219
11. Add winter mittens on top of the gift.http://www.pioneerthinking.com/aab_giftwrap.html
12. Tuck a big candy cane under the bow.http://www.pioneerthinking.com/aab_giftwrap.html
13. Attach a couple of servings of cocoa to the bow.http://www.pioneerthinking.com/aab_giftwrap.html
14. Add a small picture frame ornament with your favorite holiday photo to the package.http://www.pioneerthinking.com/aab_giftwrap.html