Beyond the Basics: 3D ribbon bow tutorial
- Dec 9, 2025
- 1 min read
Updated: Dec 11, 2025
How to make a 3D ribbon bow for Your Needlepoint project
Adding a little 3D bow can instantly make your needlepoint project pop, and the best part? It’s super easy to do! Here’s a simple method I love using.
What you’ll need:
Flat ribbon
A small dessert fork
Matching embroidery thread
An embroidery needle
Your needlepoint project (the canvas where you want to attach the bow)

Step 1: Prep the ribbon
If your ribbon is silk or another delicate material, press it flat using a low-heat iron and place a towel between the iron and the ribbon. This prevents damage while giving you a smooth, easy-to-work-with ribbon.
Step 2: Wrap the ribbon around the fork
Take your dessert fork and start wrapping the ribbon around the tines, alternating under, over, and around the teeth. Keep going until you have the number of loops you want for your bow.
Step 3: Secure the center
Take a piece of matching embroidery thread and tie it tightly around the center of the loops. This keeps your bow in place.
Step 4: Attach it to your canvas
Thread your embroidery needle with the same thread and stitch the bow onto your needlepoint project. Anchor the two threads in the back through some existing stitches, and you’re done!
And just like that, you have a perfectly shaped 3D bow that adds charm and dimension to your project. This little trick is quick, easy, and makes your needlepoint look extra special!
Watch the video tutorial here:
