DIY Easy Dickie Bow Tie

"To its devotees the bow tie suggests iconoclasm of an Old World sort, a fusty adherence to a contrarian point of view. The bow tie hints at intellectualism, real or feigned, and sometimes suggests technical acumen, perhaps because it is so hard to tie. Bow ties are worn by magicians, country doctors, lawyers and professors and by people hoping to look like the above. But perhaps most of all, wearing a bow tie is a way of broadcasting an aggressive lack of concern for what other people think."

”

—Warren St John, The New York Times Gingham via stylemepretty via tumblr

I love a man in a neck tie. I love a bow tie even more.  It still remains a mystery which originated first but clearly the neck tie is more popular today. Some may say that a bow tie has stereotypical conservative look. But I think neck ties are more conservative. 

(Grammar lesson No. 1-bow tie is two words not one!)

All at once, a bow tie, otherwise know as the dickie bow tie can be avant garde, chic, classic, whimsical and nerdy. How can a tiny accessory be so commanding? It practically points a finger at you. I cannot think of a women's accessory that has the same universal power. 

So when all else fails borrow from the boys!

Ralph Lauren

via pinterest

Flouzen Alpi

All this bow tie business got me thinking that it was high time to own a bow tie. Then, of course, my next thought is to make my own for the fun of it!  

If you own a bow tie very simple instructions are below. 

via pinterest

If you don't own a bow tie and do not have a lot of time on your hands to make your own then read on!

Here is what you will need:

Fabric of your choice (I used black felt)

Pattern 

Glue gun or Needle/Thread

Pen

Scissor

Ruler

Bar Pins or black elastic

Supplies

Step 1: Pin bow tie pattern pieces on your fabric and cut.

Step 2:  Take your bow pattern piece and pinch in the center with your thumb and forefinger. At this point, you can use your hot glue gun to glue the bow in this position or you can use a thread and needle to create your bow tie. I ended up sewing them because I didn't want them to fall apart.                   

Step 3: Take your small rectangle pattern piece and wrap it around the center of your bow. Secure it in the back with glue or thread. Trim any excess away. 

Step 4: You can then choose to add bar pins or elastic neck band. 

So I got a little carried away and made a few more!

It reminded me of this art exhibit by Alister Mackie. Not all bow ties are created equal! Experiment with all of the shapes and sizes.  Let this inspire your creations!

Alister Mackie, 2010