Matching Hair Bows for 18" Dolls

So, in the great need for accessories for 18" dolls, like American Girl Dolls, I'm making matching monogrammed hair bows. This is great for pictures, or just for everyday. I wanted to make something special for my niece for a gift... She has an American Girl doll, so I thought "why not make her some matching hair bow sets?"

The result was a success with my niece, so I'm sure any girl who likes these 18" dolls and loves bows will be sure to agree. I'm going to start offering these in my etsy shop very soon,but wanted to offer everyone a sneak-peek to the new addition. If you have anything you'd like to see in my shop, drop me a comment. I will do my best to try and see what I can come up with.

Thanks for your continue support and helping me pursue this livelihood and hobby.

Elegant Monogrammed Hair Bow

Blue with White Elegant Monogram Hair Bow

Monogramming began as lettering and/or symbols to mark prestigious and noble families' items. Here in the South, it really doesn't matter your background.. Monogramming is Big! and the Bigger! the Better!

I made this monogrammed blue hair bow, with a white, elegant lettering for a client. I was tired of the same old interlacing vine font, so I found this font. While it's much different, it's every much just as elegant and includes scrolling script. 

I love making things that are different, and tinkering with patterns. I just haven't decided if I like the looks of the letters on the bow to go down the ribbon, or across the ribbon best. Some fonts won't work across, and this is an example. That's why sometimes, these type of font is more suitable for different style bows, other than the boutique bow. 

Kindergarten Hair Bow!

I had a request a few years ago to make a back-to-school hair bow for a little girl. The original was made with white ribbon and a green center. I made this bow in 2016 for a little girl's first day of kindergarten to match her school uniform. I have to say, that I'm liking it more than the original. However, I know the colors are less than traditional back to school apparel.

Once I'm out of nursing school, and can purchase a commercial embroidery machine, I want to start doing more with applique clothing. Hopefully, I can make back to school outfits in time for my niece's first day of school. The variety of back to school outfits are overwhelming, but they are so cute! We never had stuff like this when I was a kid. I remember I had a green dress with a yellow apple on it, and that was about the extent of it.

What to do when the ends of your bows start to fray!

We've all had hair bows that began to fray out after so many wears. So, you may find yourself asking "How do I fix frayed hair bows or keep hair bows from fraying?"

Well, there are a couple of different things you can try... but the first, most important step is figuring out what the ribbon is made of. Most ribbon is made of polyester, nylon, or some other synthetic fiber. There are some ribbons made of cotton, and cotton blends.

*caution - use caution and at your own risk. I am not responsible if you destroy your bow, burn yourself or something/somebody else*

If the ribbon is polyester, the best fastest thing to do is to run a lighter quickly along the edge. If it didn't seal the ribbon the first time, just repeat. You do have to move quickly or the ribbon will melt too much or black will appear (especially on white ribbon).

If you'd rather not risk melting your bow, setting it on fire, don't know the material the ribbon is made of etc.. you can use fray check on it. I personally did not like the stuff in the clear bottle that's labeled "fray check". I did find this hand quilters fray stuff from a sewing store that is lovely.

*warning, you may check to see if the fray check will stain the ribbon on the underside before using.


I'm in the process of starting a youtube channel. I got my camera, but my tripod hasn't arrived yet. I plan to release a video series and will include a video about sealing ribbon and repairing hair bows.

Go Bama! Made this Alabama themed hair bow as a gift for my Bama friend.

Bulldozers for Girls

I've neglected this blog for awhile, as I've spent the past two years in nursing school. So, I'm getting passionate again about hair bows. I made this little bulldozer hair bow for little girl. Her brother's birthday party was bulldozer themed. She had a matching outfit, and her mom requested I make a hairbow. I have to admit, at first I didn't know how I'd make this thing girly, but I was pleased with the results.

The black, yellow, and white compliment each other well, in a scheme that's different from the typical bumble bee colors. I did have a hard time trying to decide what type of center to place on the bow. I wanted a hard hat feltie... but in my search for designs, I didn't see any I was fond of. So I went with this circle monogram feltie on this bow, that made everyone happy! Yay!

I couldn't decide if I wanted to purchase more bulldozer ribbon and make these on a regular basis. It's hard to know if there would be a demand, so it's my hope that throught this blog post, I will see how popular it is. Tell me what you think. Best wishes to everyone for a happy new year!

Bulldozer Monogrammed Hair Bow

Fabric Covered Headbands

I've recently started making fabric cover headbands to cater to older lover's of cute hair accessories. I think these are perfect for preteens, teens and adult women. I've actually been wearing some myself, and they are quite cute. I've received many compliments.

Because there are SO many different types of fabrics, in nearly any color and patter imaginable, imagine the possibilities! The one in the picture is on a 1 1/2 inch headband, which works well for older girls and women. Unlike some of the headbands I've bought at Walmart, these are comfortable and stay on well.

I can custom make these (as long as the fabric is available) for 4.50 each (+ 2.00 shipping to the U.S.). Of course, I combine shipping.

Best Way to Ship Hair Bows?

Through trial and error, I've discovered the best way to ship hair bows. Whether your an online retailer or simply shipping a gift to a loved one, a hair bow can be shipped different ways.

You'll want to take into consideration that boxes weigh significantly more than an envelope. However, you'll also have to take into consideration that a korker bow is just not going to mail well in an envelope.

For pinwheel bows or other styles that won't deform or smash in shipping, I simply place them in a packet of air, inside an envelope. This is done two different ways.
1) Wrapping the bow in bubble wrap.
2) Placing the bow in a bubble of air, like a ziplock bag filled with hair, or a sealed plastic sleeve.

For bows that can wrinkle or smash easily, I recommend a box. I buy mine from Uline in bulk. However, if you are only shipping a very few, this is not economical. I've used food boxes wrapped in kraft paper, just be sure the box is clean. Like a cookie box or other item that was sealed on the inside. Boxes are avaiable at stores like Target and Walmart. However, at 40 to 1.00 a pop, that's pretty expensive. You might consider making your own box. This wonderful tutorial shows you how...
Make Your Own Shipping Box

Of course, if you are planning to ship priority mail, the USPS provides the boxes for you. Hair bows weigh light, so unless in a hurry, use First Class, it is enough savings to pay for a box.

If you use a box as the best way to ship hair bows, make sure you wrap the bows inside with plastic or tissue paper. You want to eliminate the shuffle and possibility of dampness, etc..

Is Grosgrain Ribbon Washable?

You might find yourself in a situation that leaves you asking "Is grosgrain ribbon washable?" Most varieties/brands of grosgrain ribbon is made from 100% polyester. Unless the ribbon is of poor quality, it's really durable and can stand a washing. However, before you wash grosgrain ribbon, there are a few things to consider...

• Seal the ends! Sealing the ribbon will keep it from raveling out during a washing. Once that weave starts raveling, it doesn't take long for the entire strand to fray out.
• Be aware of color fasting. Some prints and colors (especially red) will run or rub off in the wash.
• Do not bleach or use harsh detergents and soak stains before washing.
• Hang the ribbon to dry so it doesn't melt or wrinkle. Wrinkling will be unavoidable, but hanging it to dry will help some. If you do use a dryer, use a low setting. There are ways to remove wrinkles from ribbon.

Why would I want to wash my grosgrain ribbon?

Well, it's not actually necessary if you are just using it for decorations, but I always recommend washing anything that will be worn against the skin. You can never be too careful of dyes and chemicals that might be there. You'll also want to make sure you wash any excess dye before attaching a trim to something like a dress. You don't want the ribbon to bleed off on the fabric in the wash. Now, if you're like me, I can't count how many times I spilled my soda on ribbon. So, I've found myself washing it for that reason. It usually comes out really well. Then some ribbon, with time can become very dusty. You might consider just spot cleaning already shaped items like hair bows.

Why should little girls get all the cute stuff?

I've decided to go on a quest and target an older audience. Don't worry, I'll still be making hair bows & other accessories for little girls. I'm just trying to up the ante and focus on some cute items for the older generation. Personally, at 35 years old, I find it difficult to find items that are not too young or too old. It's like I can be a teeny bopper, plain jane or an old lady. So, I pick the plain, boring stuff.

Well, I'm not going to be plain jane anymore. I've started wearing cool headbands and hair bows to make my wardrobe less stale. Hey! I have personality too. I will say that I'm not overly found of a single hair bow an on adult head, but I do love headbands with bows on them. I'm going to start making some with lace bows on them in the near future (actually as soon as I find the narrow headbands I order). Such chaos in the world of hair bow making! =)

Use Hair Bows to Decorate Presents

Why not dress up a little girl's present with a hair bow over a traditional bow? Decorations for packages can be very expensive. I'm always look for practical ways and more green ways to decorate. I like reusing items for packing and wrapping gifts... like kraft paper, the comics and magazine pages.



So, I made these bow with that in mind. I started putting them on gifts for my nieces and friends little girls. They really look very similar to those that you would find on a present. I just simply apply regular ribbon around the package and use the alligator clip on the hair bow to attach it to the gift. You can also attach these to gift bags.

Non Slip Grips for Hair Bows

Some hair bows come with non slip grips, but for those that do not, you can add your own fairly easy. I add them to the hair bows I sell upon request.

GripZies - This brand of non slip grip inserts are made just with the hair bow in mind. They are free of toxins and latex. The only down side I see is that these can be a bit expensive or unhandy to get, since you have to order them. Hard to get them when in a hurry.

Thin Mounting Foam - A strip of thin mounting foam can be applied to an alligator or french clip to provide a non slip grip. Some of this comes with self adhesive, if not, you can use permanent double stick tape or glue.

Silicone - Some people will apply a thin stream of silicone to the clip. This is a cheap method and easy to find at hardware stores. However, I find it messy and difficult to find a way to prop the clip open while it dries. You can find silicone already made and double side tape or glue it in.

Rubber shelf liner - That foamy type, not the sticky back type. Cut it into little rectangle strips (see picture) and glue it in. I cut some of these up and tried them. I had a hard time gluing them in.

I don't use shelf liner on my bows. Upon request, I add a nice, non hair pulling foam grip.

How to Get Wrinkles Out of Hair Bows

Kids are rough on their stuff. Sometimes they wad up their hair bows or shove them in drawers causing wrinkles in the ribbon. How can you give new life to those old hair bows? Well, it depends on the type of bow and ribbon, but most bows are easily taken care of.

Most likely your hair bow is made of polyester. Most grosgrain and satin is polyester. However, some are blends.

Organza-
I don't recommend steaming organza at all. I once steamed a dress and it altered the texture of the organza. Getting the wrinkles out of an organza hair bow will be nearly impossible, to retain the shape. You can try wetting it and shaping it, but I've never had much luck.

Polyester-
Take the part that is wrinkled and hold both ends, sort of stretching the wrinkled part. Hold it over (not on) a burning light bulb of a lamp. Careful not to burn yourself or touch the ribbon directly onto the ribbon. Don't hold it in the same spot too long either. The heat of the light bulb acts as an iron, but gives a good shape to work with the loops of the hair bows.

You can also use a narrow, low setting flat iron. I would only use a cheap one! No Chi flat irons!

*Warning - My advice is based on my experiences with my bows. I'm not there and can't verify what type of bow or ribbon you have. So use this advice with caution and at your own risk.

Headbands for School Uniforms

School Uniforms can be a bit dull. Headbands made to match school uniforms can give those boring outfits just a touch of personality. Plus, headband are appropriate for all ages K-12 and even college. The headbands can be made in any size from 1/2" to 2", with the 1" size being the most popular for the younger girls and the 1 1/2" being the most popular for the preteen and up range. These school uniform headbands can also be made with up one, two, three or even four different colors.


Adding a Hair Bow to the Woven Headband:

For younger, or more frilly girls, hair bows can even be added on. These two pieces can be worn separately or even together as a duo. Most style hair bows look great on these and as long as it has an alligator clip, it can easily be placed on and off. I think the korker type bows look super sweet with the woven headbands, but for older girls, the boutique, pinwheel or tuxedo style bow might be a better choice.

M2M Gymboree Growing Flowers Line

In shades of green, tangerine, blue, white, pink and brown, this bow/headband set is made to match Gymboree's Growing Flowers Line. The line was released in December of 2011, but is the first to appear of the new spring items.

This set is a woven 1" headband and a matching korker hair bow. The set can be worn together, or separate. Perfect for one girl, or to share with sisters or friends. The headband will fit most children and adults. I can make these sets to match any Gymboree line, current or past.

I look forward to making more of these style sets because they are just too stinking cute!!!

How to Fix Fraying Ribbon

Learn how to fix fraying ribbon and add more life to your hair bows and dress sashes. Ribbon will ravel out and fray if the ends are not treated or sealed in some fashion. Even when they are sealed, with extended wear, ribbon can begin to ravel and fray. Try these tricks to fix your ribbons.

1) Heat Seal - It's VERY important to use this method on 100% polyester ribbon only. Most (but not all) organza, satin and grosgrain ribbon are polyester. Simply trim off any excess frayed ribbon on the ends. Then take a lighter and quickly run the flame across the ends. It must be quickly to just seal and not melt the ends. It might be necessary to run the flame across the end more than once. Some ribbon has rough, thicker edges than others. Organza and Satin ribbons will burn the quickest, so be careful!

2) Liquid Fray Check - This product will send the ends of any type of fabric or ribbon. However, you should check the fabric/ribbon ahead of time for staining. I don't like using liquid fray check unless necessary because it can stain or leave watermarks on the material. This type of sealing method seems less permanent to me as well. It doesn't hold up as well as the heat method. However, it is best to use the fray check if you are unaware if the ribbon is polyester or not and if there is a danger of ruining other parts of a hair bow or dress by using a flame.

To apply the liquid, place a small, thin stream directly above the end of the ribbon. Allow it to dry, then trim off the edge. It might take it several hours to dry. I would wait at least overnight before trimming. Be careful where you lay the material to dry. I like to hold the wet part up off any surface. The substance is kind of sticky.

If you have any questions about fixing your hair bows or sealing the ends of ribbon, please don't hesitate to ask me. I'm happy to help you get the most out of your hair bows.

How to Make a Hair Bow for Daisy Scouts

Learn how to make a hair bow for your little Daisy Scout!

I put together this tutorial so that mother and/or scout leaders can make hair bows for the Daisies. This is pretty simple as long as you have some patience. I made this one rather large just for the purpose of the tutorial. You might want to scale your Daisy Scout hair bow down.

Supplies Needed:

• 10 grosgrain ribbon stripes that match Daisy Scout colors (these are cut 7 inches long in this tutorial, but I made one using 6 inch ribbons after)
• Lighter to seal the ribbon
• Long needle and embroidery floss
• Small piece of felt (optional)
  
• Got glue or fabric glue
• Buttons or other garnish for the center
• Hair clips, bands, etc..

Step 1:
Gather your supplies and seal the edges of the ribbon. Do this by quickly running the ends of the ribbon through the flame of the lighter. *Make sure your ribbon is 100% polyester or else!*
Step 2:
Arrange the ribbons in the "color wheel" of the Daisy Scout.
-Green, light pink, lavender, light blue, yellow, bright green, red, orange, purple and hot pink

Step 3:
Beginning with the first color on your "wheel", fold the ribbon strip in half.

Step 4:
Now fold the edges over on each side, lining the ribbon up on all ends. It will resemble a heart, sort of. *Picture explains this better*
Step 5:
Run the bottom edges through a piece of thread, placing it in the middle of the thread.


Step 6:
Continue doing step 5 for all of the ribbons, being sure to hold them all near the middle of the strand of thread.


Step 7:
Once you have finished all of the ribbons, you can might want to put a small dot of glue between the ribbons and then tie them in a circle OR tie them off in a circle, then add the glue.Be sure you don't tie the ribbon off too tightly though. If you are gluing your bow to a large hard surface, like a plastic headband, you can wait and glue it on there. However, I glue mine onto a small felt circle to hold the shape after I tie it off. This worked well for me. The flower hair bow needs some sort of support.



Step 8:
Once your flower structure is secure, you can add a middle by using a button, flower, or some other type of garnish. *The one I used is just something I had on hand, wasn't the best pick*



*You can also fan out your hair bow as seen in the picture, but do that before gluing it together!

Step 9:
Attach your made to match Daisy Scout hair bow to a clip, headband, etc.. You can also make a brooch out of these or attach them to a hat, even flip flops. *You might want to do a better job than me at aligning the colors, I didn't pay attention when I glued it down until it was too late.*


Please visit my Etsy store for hair bows. I plan to include a full line of "Made to Match Girl Scouts" hair bows and accessories as I find time to add them to my library. In the meantime, you can contact me at my shop or my facebook page about custom orders.

To keep up-to-date on the latest Girl Scout happenings, visit this awesome blog from MommyMommyMommy... After all, she knows best!
Girl Scout Leaders Blog

Thanks for visiting!

M2M LSU Mini Korker Hair Bows

LSU's (Louisiana State University) colors are purple and golden. Many times there will be some white thrown into the mix. I had a special request for these LSU colored mini korker hair bows earlier today. They are pretty cute. These little bows are great for showing team spirit. They actually look like little cheerleader pompoms.

Slowly, I'm trying to add more and more school colors to my shop. I can always make some at request. To be honest, I'm not a big sports fan so this is an area of hair bows I'm having to learn.

Zebra Pony O Streamer

Zebra print is more popular than ever. However, a little goes a big distance. Zebra striped ribbon looks best when mixed with solids and polka dots. I made these streamer with that in mind for older girls.

Shocking pink, white and black is an excellent combination for this type of hair bow accessory. It can be made longer or shorter upon request. I actually put spikes at the top to give it a more polished and hair bow look over the simple square knot on the streamers.

Valentine Funky Loop Hair Bow

This Valentine funky loop hair bow is a contestant in a competition at Hairbow Wars over at Facebook. The administrator of this Hairbow contest welcomes friendly hair bow makers and fans to enter and vote on their favorites. There is always a theme and this month's theme is Valentines - Love is in the Bow.

Usually about the 14th of the month, the new bow pictures are posted. Hair bow lovers then vote on their favorites. The winner gets to pick next month's inspiration. This contest is a great way for hair bow makers to promote their work and business, and for fans to find unique outlets for purchasing. It's really a great group of gals (possible a few guys, who am I to discriminate?) Again, it's for nice, friendly people. No trolls or sour grapes!

The Valentine funky loop bow contains over 10 yards of ribbons and trims - glitter, tulle, grosgrain, stripes, polka dots, conversation hearts and solids. It's an explosion of pink gooey goodness.

Horse Accessories

Horse print ribbon is really cute for the cowgirl in us all. The pony O streamer pictured is great for older girls who have outgrown boutique style hair bows. I used over 2 yards of ribbon to create this hair accessory.

I usually attach them to the metal free ponytail holders. However, I can attach them to alligator clips or french clips. Most people tend to want these metal free because of school regulations. Sports will have a no metal policy that includes hair clips.