Materials You’ll Need:
- A shirt with a collar
- A sewing machine or needle and thread
- Scissors
- A ruler
- A fabric marker or chalk
- Your choice of bowtie fabric
Step 1: Measure and Mark
Begin by laying your chosen fabric on a flat surface. Use the ruler to measure and mark a rectangle that is 20 inches long and 6 inches wide. This will be the foundation of your bowtie.
Step 2: Cut the Fabric
Take your scissors and cut along the marked lines to create the rectangular piece of fabric.
Step 3: Fold and Sew
Next, fold the fabric in half lengthwise, with the patterned sides facing each other. Use pins or fabric clips to hold the edges in place. Proceed to sew along the long edge using a sewing machine or needle and thread. This will create a tube-like shape.
Step 4: Turn Inside Out
Carefully flip the fabric tube inside out, ensuring the patterned side is now on the outside. Use a pencil or a ruler to push out the corners for a crisp finish.
Step 5: Shape the Bowtie
Lay the fabric tube flat on your working surface and fold it accordion-style in the center. Take a small fabric strip, approximately 2 inches long, and wrap it around the center of the folded tube. Secure it tightly with a few stitches or a small dot of fabric glue.
Step 6: Attach the Adjuster Slider
Cut another fabric strip, around 4 inches long, to create the bowtie’s adjustable strap. Attach the adjuster slider to one end of the strip and stitch or glue it in place. This will allow you to adjust the size of the bowtie to fit comfortably around your neck.
Step 7: Attach the Neckband
Using the remaining fabric strip, create a neckband by folding it in half lengthwise, just like you did with the main fabric earlier. Sew along the long edge, leaving the ends open. Flip it inside out and slide the bowtie through the neckband.
Step 8: Wear and Style
Your DIY bowtie is now ready! Put the shirt on, pop the collar, and slide the bowtie over your head. Adjust the strap using the adjuster slider until it fits comfortably. Position the bowtie symmetrically and give it a final adjustment. Voila! You now have a self-tied bowtie, tailored to your liking, that adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
Now that you know how to make a bowtie on a shirt, you can create personalized bowties to match any occasion or style. Whether it’s for a formal event, a wedding, or simply for your everyday fashion statement, your handmade bowtie is guaranteed to turn heads. Get creative with different patterns and fabrics, and enjoy the process of making your own fashion accessories!