Seen the price of bows these days? And can you ever find one in a colour you want? Well, now you can. It's cheaper and much easier than you may imagine to make your own.

For quick and easy bows always use wire-edged ribbon which will hold its shape. Take approximately half-a-metre of ribbon, hold it vertically in front of you and fold the top third away from you and down. Fold the bottom third away from you and up.

Gather the ribbon in the middle between finger and thumb and secure with wire. Pull each loose end out to create the 'tails' and tease the loops into shape. For a fuller bow, use more ribbon and make more folds in multiples of two, i.e. fold the ribbon four or six times to create more loops.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different lengths of ribbon and combinations of colour - practice makes perfect!

As well as adding a finishing touch to gifts, bows add a splash of colour on everything from trees and wreaths to garlands, floral arrangements and even chair backs!

For a massive of ribbons visit HobbyCraft, the arts and crafts superstore.