Red gingham bow hanging from door

3 Ways to Reuse Bows After the Holidays

3 Creative Ways to Reuse Bows After the Holidays 

Once the holidays wind down, I typically find myself with a pile of leftover ribbons and bows-too pretty to toss, but not sure what to do with them. The good news? With a little creativity, those festive touches can find new life long after the last present is unwrapped Whether you prefer simple crafts or quick home styling ideas, here are three easy ways to give your holiday bows a second act.

Black gingham chair with embroidered pillow and red gingham bow layered on top

1. Add a Touch of Whimsy to Everyday Decor

Bows instantly bring charm and texture to your space. Instead of stashing them away, try weaving them into your year-round decor. Tie a few around the necks of glass vases, candle holders, or layer them with pillows for a subtle, feminine touch.

If you love a seasonal refresh, switch the colors to fit the mood—metallic or velvet bows look beautiful in winter, while soft pastels or gingham ribbons transition perfectly into spring. Cluster a few bows on a mirror frame or hang them from a mantel garland for a chic yet cozy feel that doesn’t scream “holiday leftovers.”

Black and white polk a dot bow hanging from the mantle of a white fireplace

2. Turn Bows into Gift-Ready Embellishments

Save time (and money!) on future gifting by creating a “bow box.” Gather your leftover ribbons and bows, sort them by color or size, and store them in a small container or basket.

Next time a birthday, bridal shower, or baby gift rolls around, you’ll already have the perfect topper. Layer smaller bows over larger ones or mix textures—like satin and burlap—for an elevated, boutique-style look. A neutral base with one pop of color makes any wrapped gift feel thoughtful and put-together without buying anything new. Invest in your holiday decor and you'll have a gift to give later in the year too!

3. Upcycle into Everyday Crafts

For those who enjoy DIY projects, bows are the perfect starting point. I use them as an extra boost for my wreaths, layer them over mantels, or turn them into their own display for a timeless boutique look. These simple projects can be customized to any season. 

You can rework them into seasonal door displays by swapping out the ribbon color or adding simple accents like faux greenery, dried oranges, or mini bells. Another idea is to repurpose them indoors: hang a black gingham bow on a blanket ladder, the back of a dining chair, or even above a framed print for an instant touch of charm. With a little rearranging, those oversized bows can easily transition from holiday cheer to year-round elegance.

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