If you’re looking for a last-minute handmade gift idea that still feels thoughtful (and not rushed), this one is it.
Today I’m showing you how to make beaded bow ornaments — and when I say easy, I mean minutes, not hours. I didn’t invent this idea (people have been making these forever), but this was finally the year I figured it out… and then made a ton of them for friends.
I learned a few things along the way, so let me walk you through it step by step.
Supplies Used
Here’s exactly what I use:
- Beads (various sizes work best)
- Craft wire (gold, silver, or whatever you like)
- Slightly heavier wire is ideal, but thinner still works
- Wire cutters (or scissors in a pinch)
- Extra wire for hanging loop (optional)
Rather watch than read? Check out the full video by clicking the video below!
Let’s Get Started!
This is one of those projects that’s perfect to make while watching a show or listening to a podcast.
It’s seriously such a great project.
- You can use any beads you want
- Thrifted supplies work beautifully
- Each one looks different
- They’re quick, inexpensive, and genuinely gift-worthy
So grab your beads, and let’s go!
Step 1: Prep Your Beads
If you’re using a thrifted necklace, start by cutting it apart and sliding all the beads off.
I love using thrifted necklaces for this:
- You get multiple sizes and styles
- It’s way cheaper than buying individual beads
- Bonus points for reusing and recycling ♻️
Sort your beads so the small and large ones are easy to grab.
Step 2: String the Top Bow Loops
Cut a long piece of wire — longer than you think you’ll need.
- String small beads onto the wire for the first loop
- I used 20 small beads for one side
- Add one larger bead in the center (optional, but very cute)
- String the same number of small beads for the second loop
Now slide everything to the center of the wire.
Step 3: Form the Bow Shape
Take one end of the wire and thread it back through the center bead to form a loop.
Repeat with the other side.
Pull both ends tight — and suddenly, you have a bow!
If your wire is on the thinner side, wrap it once or twice around the center bead to help the bow hold its shape.
Step 4: Add the Bottom Tails
Now we’ll make the hanging parts of the bow.
- String beads onto one loose wire end
- I liked 12 beads for the tails, but you can adjust
- Wrap the wire back through the last bead to secure
- Repeat on the other side
This gives you the full bow shape: loops on top, tails on the bottom.
Step 5: Finish the Wire Ends
Trim any excess wire and fold the ends inward so nothing is pokey.
At this point, you can gently reshape the bow — bend it, fluff it, adjust the curves. This is where it really comes to life.
Step 6: Add a Hanging Loop
Use a leftover piece of wire to create a loop for hanging.
Wrap it a few times around the center bead and leave the loop nice and long — short ornament loops are the worst.
Secure it, adjust the shape… and you’re done!
Playing With Different Beads
I tried this same technique with:
- Larger statement beads
- Single-size beads
- Clear, faceted beads
Each one had a totally different vibe — which is why this project is so fun. You can match your tree, your friend’s decor, or whatever beads you happen to find.One of the bows I made took 3 minutes and 30 seconds from start to finish. That’s it.
That’s a Wrap – The Final Bows!
These little beaded bows are one of my favorite kinds of handmade projects: cute, customizable, affordable, and genuinely special. They work beautifully as gifts for friends, neighbors, teachers, or hosts — and they’re just as perfect for your own tree. Once you make one, it’s hard to stop, because they’re quick, satisfying, and each one turns out a little bit different.
I’d LOVE to see your creations. Tag me on Instagram: @thehappyevercrafter
Looking for more holiday crafts? Check out these gingerbread house ornaments!
And finally, your dad joke…
A gingerbread man went to the doctor due to a sore knee…
The doctor asked: “Have you tried icing it?”
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