Christmas is a time for joy, celebration and decorating our homes to reflect the festive spirit. One of the most charming and eye-catching decorations you can add to your home is a Christmas door bow.
These beautiful bows not only enhance the exterior of your home but also create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests.
Here, the Christmas.co.uk team explores the history, types and benefits of Christmas door bows, as well as provide tips on how to choose and care for them.
History of Christmas door bows
Pic: Etsy
The tradition of decorating doors dates to ancient times when people would adorn their homes with greenery and ribbons to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.
As Christmas became increasingly popular, the tradition of decorating doors with festive bows emerged.
In Victorian England, elaborate door decorations became a symbol of wealth and status.
These early bows were often made from expensive materials such as silk and velvet and adorned with intricate details like beads and sequins.
Since then, the Christmas door bow has evolved into a symbol of festive cheer and hospitality, becoming a staple in festive decorations.
Why consider Christmas door bows?
Christmas door bows are a simple yet elegant way to enhance the festive look of your home.
They are versatile, easy to install and can be used in conjunction with other decorations such as wreaths and garlands.
Door bows come in a variety of styles and colours, allowing you to match them with your overall Christmas theme.
They also create a welcoming entrance for guests and can be a fun DIY project for the family.
What type of Christmas door bow to use?
Pic: Amazon
There’s a wide selection of Christmas door bows to use – here are some ideas to consider:
- Classic red and green: Enjoy the timeless appeal of red and green bows, often adorned with ribbons, bells and pinecones
- Winter wonderland: Explore bows with icy blue and silver tones, incorporating snowflakes, icicles, and other winter-themed elements
- Modern minimalist: Highlight the trend of sleek, minimalist bows in neutral colours or bold geometric patterns
- DIY bows: Provide tips and inspiration for crafting personalised door bows using various materials like hessian, ribbon and greenery.
Choosing the perfect Christmas door bow
- Consider your home’s style: Select a bow that complements the overall aesthetic of your home
- Size and placement: Consider the appropriate size and placement of the bow on your door
- Weather-resistant materials: You might need to consider materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
What are Christmas door bows made from?
Door bows are typically made from a variety of materials, including:
- Velvet: Known for its rich texture and luxurious appearance
- Satin: Offers a smooth and shiny finish, perfect for a classic look
- Hessian: Provides a rustic and natural feel, ideal for a country-style Christmas
- Mesh: Adds a touch of sparkle and is often used for larger, more dramatic bows
- Plastic: Durable and weather-resistant, suitable for outdoor use.
Also, decorative ornaments, like baubles, bells, or snowflakes, can be attached to the bow.
How are door bows used?
Pic: Etsy
To hang your door bow, you’ll need a sturdy hook or wreath hanger.
Simply attach the bow to the hook and adjust it to your desired position.
Ensure that the bow is securely fastened to prevent it from blowing away in windy weather.
Christmas door bows can be used in several ways to decorate your home:
Front door: The most common use, where the bow is placed at the centre of the door
- Gates and fences: Adding bows to gates and fences can extend the festive decor beyond your front door
- Windows: Smaller bows can be used to decorate windows, adding a cohesive look to your home’s exterior
- Garlands and wreaths: Bows can be attached to garlands and wreaths to enhance their appearance
- Posh door Christmas bows: Like the front door bows mentioned above, these are large, elegant bows made from high-quality materials like satin, velvet or hessian. These bows are designed to make a statement and add a touch of luxury to your decorations.
How expensive are Christmas door bows?
The cost of door bows can vary depending on the size, material and complexity of the design. Here are some general price ranges:
- Small bows: £10 – £20
- Medium bows: £20 – £40
- Large bows: £40 – £100
- Custom or designer bows: £100 and above.
How to care for door bows
To ensure your Christmas door bows last for many seasons, follow these care tips:
- Protect it from the elements: If you endure harsh weather conditions at Christmas, consider using weather-resistant materials – or bringing your bow indoors when not in use
- Storage: Store bows in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and damage
- Cleaning: Gently clean bows with a soft cloth or brush to remove dust and dirt. Avoid using harsh chemicals
- Maintenance: Check for any loose or damaged parts and repair them promptly to maintain the bow’s appearance.
Where to buy door bows
Here are some retailers where you can purchase door bows in the UK:
- Etsy: Impressive and creative handmade Christmas door bows
- Amazon: A wide selection of bows at a variety of prices
- Wayfair: Nice designs of bows and wreaths
- Hobbycraft: Get some DIY inspiration!
Buy a Christmas door bow this year
Christmas door bows are a delightful addition to any festive decor, bringing charm and warmth to your home.
Whether you opt for a classic red velvet bow or a modern mesh design, these decorations are sure to make your home stand out this Christmas season.
