The bow is badly uneven
Untie and change the starting length rather than trying to pull several centimetres through a finished knot. If the side made from the initially longer end becomes too large, shorten that starting end slightly.
You cannot find the rear loop
After dropping the long end over the front bow, feel behind the centre knot with one finger. There should be a small horizontal opening. Push a folded edge—not the loose tip—through that opening. A mirror is less useful than touch at this stage.
The knot keeps loosening
Tighten by pulling the two folded loops away from each other, then pull the two loose ends, alternating in small movements. Pulling only the wings distorts the bow; pulling only the loose ends can collapse the loops.
The bow is too small
Make the initial front fold wider. The front fold establishes the visible scale of the bow. Also check that the neck-size adjustment is correct; an excessively long band can use up fabric that should form the loops.
The bow tilts
Centre the knot over the shirt placket, then adjust one loop at a time. Check the shirt collar as well: a twisted collar or uneven collar stays can make a correct bow appear crooked.
Fabric-specific problems
| Fabric behaviour | Likely issue | Adjustment |
|---|---|---|
| Slippery satin | Knot loosens | Use slightly firmer tension and smaller adjustments |
| Thick wool | Centre becomes bulky | Choose a slimmer shape or lighter interlining |
| Soft linen | Loops collapse | Keep folds broad and accept a relaxed outline |
| Stiff pre-tied bow | Looks flat | Reshape the wings gently rather than crushing the centre |