This ribbed crochet bow pattern turns a simple rectangle into a textured embellishment. Back-loop single crochet creates the ridges, while a separate center wrap holds the folds together.
The construction uses two pieces: a rectangle worked over eight rows and a plain single crochet strip fitted around its center. There is no stuffing, shaping by increases, or separate wing construction.
The finishing makes a noticeable difference. Keeping the folds balanced and fitting the wrap to the actual fabric helps the two sides sit evenly without being pulled out of shape.
Materials for the Ribbed Crochet Bow Pattern
- Medium/worsted-weight yarn, Category 4, in your chosen color.
- A 4.0 mm or 5.0 mm crochet hook as a starting option.
- A yarn needle.
- Scissors.
- A stitch marker, optional for identifying the center.
Choose a hook that produces flexible fabric with clearly defined stitches. The rectangle needs to fold comfortably.
Use the same yarn and hook for the rectangle and center wrap.
Finished dimensions and yarn consumption depend on your materials and tension. Measure the completed bow before selecting a clip, headband, or other attachment.
Abbreviations — US Terms
- ch: chain.
- sc: single crochet.
- BLO: back loop only.
- st / sts: stitch / stitches.
- FO: fasten off.
To work in BLO, insert the hook beneath only the loop farther from you at the top of the stitch, as you hold the work for the current row.
For terminology help, consult the Craft Yarn Council’s crochet abbreviation reference, which includes US and UK comparisons.
Construction and Counting Notes
The ribbed crochet bow pattern is worked in turned rows.
Beginning ch-1 does not count as a stitch. Work the first sc into the first actual stitch of the previous row.
The main rectangle has:
- A foundation of 26 chains.
- 25 sc in each row.
- Eight rows in total.
- BLO stitches in Rows 2–8.
The center wrap has six sc per row, worked through both loops. Its final number of rows depends on the circumference of the gathered bow.
Ribbed Crochet Bow Pattern: Main Rectangle
Foundation
Ch 26.
The first row will use 25 chains. The chain skipped beside the hook does not become an additional stitch.
Row 1
Starting in the second chain from the hook, work 1 sc into each chain across.
Count: 25 sc.
Row 2
Ch 1, turn.
Working in BLO, work 1 sc into each of the 25 stitches across.
Count: 25 sc.
Do not work into the turning chain.
Rows 3–8
Repeat Row 2:
Ch 1, turn, then work 1 sc in BLO into each stitch across.
Count: 25 sc per row.
After Row 8, fasten off and weave in the ends. No additional turning chain is needed after the final row.
You should have eight rows altogether: the foundation row and seven back-loop rows.
Visual Guide: Twenty Five Stitches and Eight Rows
Use this schematic to compare twenty five stitches and eight rows with the written steps.
Open this guide at a larger size.
Check the Rectangle
Lay the piece flat without stretching the ribbing.
Confirm that:
- Both long edges contain 25 stitches.
- There are eight rows.
- The side edges have not gained or lost stitches.
- The fabric folds without excessive stiffness.
If the edges slope noticeably, count the first and last stitches of each row. Accidentally working into a turning chain or skipping the first stitch can change the width.
Center Wrap
The wrap is worked in ordinary single crochet through both loops.
Foundation
Ch 7.
Row 1
Starting in the second chain from the hook, work 1 sc into each chain across.
Count: 6 sc.
Rows 2–12
Ch 1, turn.
Work 1 sc into each stitch across.
Count: 6 sc per row.
After Row 12, place the working loop on a marker instead of fastening off immediately.
This gives a starting length for fitting. You may need fewer or more rows depending on the yarn and the thickness of the gathered center.
Assemble the Ribbed Crochet Bow Pattern
Identify the Center
Place the rectangle with its 25-stitch edges running from left to right and its eight rows running from bottom to top.
The center falls at Stitch 13 across the width.
Mark this position on the upper and lower long edges if helpful.
Make the Lengthwise Fold
Bring the two long, 25-stitch edges together.
This folds the rectangle across its height while keeping its full left-to-right width. Do not fold the left end over to meet the right end.
Leave the long edges unsewn.
Gather the Middle
Pinch the folded fabric at the marked center.
Arrange small folds through the center so the left and right sides spread outward evenly.
Use a separate length of matching yarn to make a few securing stitches through the gathered middle. Keep these stitches within the area that the center wrap will cover.
Do not pull so tightly that the wings collapse.
Fit the Center Wrap
Wrap the strip around the gathered middle.
The strip’s two short, six-stitch ends should meet at the back with a small overlap, without forcing the fabric flat.
If the wrap is too short, add more rows of six sc. If it is too long, remove rows until it fits.
Check that the wrap covers the gathering stitches without taking up too much of the visible wings.
Fasten off, leaving approximately 20–25 cm of yarn for sewing.
Sew the Wrap
Overlap the two short ends at the back.
Sew through both layers across the width of the strip, catching all six stitch columns.
Add a few discreet stitches between the wrap and the underlying gathered fabric. These prevent the wrap from rotating independently of the bow.
Secure and weave in the tail.
Visual Guide: Lengthwise Fold and Fitted Wrap
Use this schematic to compare lengthwise fold and fitted wrap with the written steps.
Open this guide at a larger size.
Shape the Wings
Spread the left and right sides gently with your fingers.
Arrange the folds and exposed edges so both wings have a similar shape. Avoid pulling hard on the ribbing to make one side match the other.
Practical Tips
Keep the Stitch Count Consistent
Every rectangle row contains 25 sc. Counting occasionally is easier than correcting a tapered rectangle after the bow has been assembled.
Use the Back Loop as Viewed After Turning
Turn the work first, then identify the loop farther from you. Do not choose the loop based on how the previous row was facing.
Let the Ribbing Rest Naturally
Measure and fold the rectangle without stretching it. A stretched piece can contract after the center wrap is fitted.
Fit the Wrap Last
The wrap length depends on the actual folds. Do not assume that 12 rows will be the right fit for every yarn and hook combination.
Secure the Wrap to the Bow
Sewing the wrap ends together creates a band, but it may still slide. A few attachment stitches into the gathered center help keep it positioned.
Attaching the Finished Bow
To sew the bow onto a bag, headband, or other item, stitch through the back of the central assembly at several points.
Avoid suspending the entire bow from a single rib or one edge stitch.
For a hair clip or elastic, use hardware designed for that purpose and follow its attachment guidance. Position it behind the center, checking that the fastening does not distort the wings.
This pattern does not include a reinforced keychain loop or a load-bearing strap.
Color and Size Variations
Change the color without changing the stitch counts. A contrasting center wrap can make the middle more prominent, while a matching wrap keeps attention on the ribbing.
To change the rectangle’s width, choose a different foundation chain count. The first row will contain one fewer sc than the number of chains.
To change its height, add or remove rows.
Either adjustment affects the proportions and may require a different wrap length. Complete one sample before preparing several matching bows.
Finishing and Care
Inspect the center seam and weave in any remaining ends.
Follow the yarn manufacturer’s care instructions. If shaping or blocking is appropriate, handle the ribbing gently and avoid pressing the folds flat.
Check that any attached fabric or hardware has compatible care requirements.
More Crochet Embellishments
For a floral alternative, explore the Sunflower Crochet Applique Pattern, which combines a circular center, petals, and a separate leaf.
If you prefer layered texture, visit the Crochet Flower Motif Pattern for an embellishment with distinct inner and outer petal sections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is This Ribbed Crochet Bow Pattern Suitable for Beginners?
It uses chains, single crochet, back-loop placement, and simple sewing. The main points to check are the 25-stitch row count and the orientation of the lengthwise fold.
How Many Rows Are in the Main Rectangle?
Eight in total. Row 1 is worked into the foundation chain, and Rows 2–8 are worked in back loops only.
Does the Turning Chain Count as a Stitch?
No. The ch-1 is only for turning. Each main-body row still contains 25 sc.
Does the Center Wrap Need Exactly 12 Rows?
No. Twelve rows provide a starting length. Add or remove rows to fit the gathered center before fastening off.
Does the Bow Need Stuffing?
No. The folded rectangle and fitted wrap create its shape.
Share Your Finished Bow
Record the yarn, hook, rectangle measurements, and final number of wrap rows when making this ribbed crochet bow pattern.
Share your color choice and how you used the bow in the comments. If a step needs clarification, mention whether you are working on the rectangle, wrap, or assembly.
