Privacy Center Beyond the Basics: 3D needlepoint ribbon bow tutorial
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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)


Cafe Noel by Maison Needlepoint
A 3D silk ribbon 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:

3D Ribbon Bow Tutorial Video

 
 
 
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