🎀 How to Make a Hair Bow with Long Tails (Long Tail Hair Bow)

 Here's a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make hair bows with long tails, also known as long tail hair bows. These are popular for cheerleading, pageants, school events, or everyday stylish wear.

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🎀 How to Make a Hair Bow with Long Tails (Long Tail Hair Bow)

✂️ Materials Needed:

• Ribbon (Grosgrain or satin):

  • 2.5 to 3 inches wide for the bow part

  • 1–1.5 inches wide for the tail (optional if not using the same ribbon)

  • Length: ~24–30 inches for bow + tail

• Hair clip or elastic band

• Hot glue gun and glue sticks

• Scissors

• Lighter or Fray Check (to seal ribbon edges)

• Needle and thread (optional for more durability)

• Ruler or measuring tape

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📌 Instructions:

Step 1: Cut the Ribbon

• Cut a 24–30 inch piece of ribbon. This will include both the bow loops and the tails.

• Optional: Cut two pieces—one for the bow (about 16–18") and one for the tails (about 10–12").

Step 2: Create the Bow Loops

1. Fold the ribbon into an awareness ribbon shape (like a loop with ends crossing).

2. Adjust the loop size until both sides are symmetrical.

3. Pinch the center where the ribbon crosses, creating 2 bow loops and 2 tails.

4. Use thread or a small zip tie to secure the center if you want a cleaner finish.

Step 3: Create the Long Tails

• If you didn't already include tails in your original ribbon, cut two 10–12 inch pieces and glue them to the back of the bow so they hang down.

Step 4: Shape and Seal the Tails

• Cut the ribbon ends in a V-shape or slant.

• Seal the edges with a lighter or Fray Check to prevent fraying.

Step 5: Cover the Center

• Take a small piece of ribbon (about 2–3 inches) and wrap it around the bow center to hide thread or zip tie.

• Use hot glue to secure it in the back.

Step 6: Attach the Hair Clip or Elastic

• Use hot glue to secure a barrette, alligator clip, or hair elastic to the back of the bow.

• For heavy or thick bows, reinforce with thread or additional glue.

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🎨 Customization Ideas:

• Use printed ribbon (like polka dots, glitter, or themed designs).

• Add embellishments like rhinestones, buttons, or charms to the center.

• Make layered bows by combining ribbons of different colors or widths.

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🎁 Pro Tips:

• Use grosgrain ribbon for a structured, classic cheer bow look.

• Stiffen the bow with fabric stiffener or hairspray if needed.

• For uniform long tails, measure carefully before cutting and shaping.

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🧵 Video Tutorials

Would you like some YouTube tutorial links or printable templates for cheer bows? I can look them up for you or recommend the best ones.

Let me know if you'd like to make a double-layer bow, twisted boutique bow, or no-sew version!

Watch video: