DIY Cat Bow Tie: A Quick & Easy Grosgrain Ribbon Tutorial

Updated at: 17/03/2025

Does your feline friend deserve a touch of dapper style? Then look no further! This tutorial will guide you through creating a charming, custom-made bow tie for your beloved cat using nothing more than grosgrain ribbon – a project so simple, even a novice crafter can master it. Forget expensive pet boutiques; with just a few minutes and readily available materials, you can craft a perfectly sized and perfectly adorable bow tie that'll make your cat the most stylish kitty on the block. Imagine the Instagram-worthy photos!

This DIY project is perfect for cat owners who want to add a unique and personalized touch to their pet's wardrobe, without breaking the bank or spending hours crafting. We’ll utilize the readily available and easy-to-work-with grosgrain ribbon to create a secure and comfortable bow tie that will stay put, even during the most energetic playtime. Ready to get started? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed

Grosgrain ribbon
Hot glue gun
Scissors
Grid mat (optional)
Clothespins (optional)

Safety Guidelines

Always supervise your cat while wearing the bow tie. Remove it immediately if they show signs of distress or try to ingest it.
Use strong, high-quality grosgrain ribbon to minimize the risk of fraying or your cat chewing through it. Avoid ribbons with small, loose parts that could pose a choking hazard.
Ensure the bow tie is securely fastened but not too tight. A comfortable fit prevents restriction and potential injury.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ribbon
- Measure and cut 8 inches of grosgrain ribbon for the bow.
- Apply hot glue to the ends of the ribbon and press together to secure.
Prepare the Ribbon
Create the Bow Shape
- Measure a piece of ribbon to wrap around the center of the bow. Fold it to create a valley and two peaks, securing with a clothespin.
Create the Bow Shape
Narrow the Center Piece
- Apply hot glue to the center of the folded ribbon and press to create a narrower center piece.
Narrow the Center Piece
Assemble the Bow Tie
- Wrap the center ribbon around the bow, securing with hot glue in the valley to hold the bow shape.
- Glue the back of the center piece to the bow, wrapping it around once more and securing with hot glue to create a loop for the collar.
Assemble the Bow Tie

Tips

Use a grid mat for precise measurements.
Hot glue is recommended for faster drying, but fabric glue can also be used.
The center ribbon doesn't need to be perfectly measured; adjust as needed to create the desired bow shape.
Make sure the center wrap is tight but loose enough to accommodate the cat's collar.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ribbon too short

Reason: The bow tie is too small for your cat's collar or doesn't tie properly.

Solution: Cut a longer piece of grosgrain ribbon before starting.

2. Uneven bow loops

Reason: The bow tie looks lopsided and unprofessional.

Solution: Carefully measure and adjust the ribbon loops before securing them.

3. Knot too tight or too loose

Reason: The knot is difficult to tie or the bow tie falls off easily.

Solution: Practice tying the knot several times to find the right tension.

FAQs

What type of ribbon is best for a cat bow tie?

Grosgrain ribbon is ideal. It's durable, holds its shape well, and comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Avoid anything too flimsy or with loose threads that could be a choking hazard.

How do I make sure the bow tie stays on my cat?

Securely tie the bow tie around your cat's collar, ensuring it's snug but not too tight. You can use a small safety pin or sew a small loop onto the back of the bow tie to attach it more firmly to the collar. Always supervise your cat while wearing the bow tie.