DIY Velvet Bow Garland: How Much Ribbon You Need + Easy Steps

A velvet bow garland is an easy way to make your Christmas decor look elegant and festive. With just a few supplies, you can create a beautiful garland for your fireplace mantel, staircase, or Christmas tree.

Here’s how to make your own, plus a simple guide to estimating how much ribbon you’ll need.

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What You’ll Need

• Velvet ribbon in burgundy, red, forest green, or ivory

• Twine or decorative cord for the garland base

• Scissors

• Thin floral wire or small zip ties

• Measuring tape

Choose ribbon that holds its shape without being too stiff. Here are a few supplies to help you get started.

How Much Ribbon Do You Need?

The amount depends on your bow size and how closely you space the bows. Use this guide as a starting point.

3-foot garland: 5–6 bows, approximately 5–7 yards of ribbon

4-foot garland: 7–8 bows, approximately 7–9 yards of ribbon

6-foot garland: 10–12 bows, approximately 10–14 yards of ribbon

8-foot garland: 13–16 bows, approximately 14–18 yards of ribbon

These amounts are approximate. Make one test bow first, measure how much ribbon it uses, and multiply that amount by the number of bows you want. Add extra ribbon for adjustments.

How to Make a Velvet Bow Garland

1. Make Your Bows

Cut a piece of velvet ribbon and tie it into a bow. Adjust the loops and tails until you like the shape, then use it as a guide for the remaining bows.

3. Attach the Bows

Secure each bow to the cord with floral wire or small zip ties. Space them evenly for a neat look, or place them closer together for a fuller garland.

2. Prepare the Garland Base

Cut your twine or decorative cord to the desired length, leaving a little extra at both ends for hanging.

4. Hang and Style

Drape your finished garland over a mantel, along a staircase railing, across a shelf, or around your Christmas tree. Adjust the bows until everything looks balanced.

3 Ways to Decorate With Your Garland

Christmas mantel

Pair burgundy velvet bows with evergreen branches and warm lights

Use matching bows for an elegant, coordinated look

Add a shorter garland as a soft alternative to traditional tinsel

Staircase railing

Christmas tree

Make It Your Own

Try burgundy for a rich, classic Christmas look, forest green for a natural feel, or ivory for a softer, neutral style. You can also mix two ribbon colors to create a more layered design.

Save this DIY velvet bow garland tutorial on Pinterest so you can find it when it’s time to decorate for Christmas!