For design enthusiasts, Shea McGee is like our Mrs. Claus. She has a way of making even the simplest festive detail feel impossibly chic and oh-so easy to copy – and this year, it’s her velvet-trimmed asymmetrical Christmas mantel that’s quickly stolen the show.
After plenty of begging in the comments on her holiday home posts, the designer has finally given us the tutorial we've been waiting on: how to make a bow for our Christmas mantels (and trees and wreaths) the Shea way.
A few weeks ago, in this Christmas decor video, Shea showed how she brought the entire Christmas mantel to life.
‘I wanted this really huge statement off to one side of my mantel,' Shea explains in the video. Layering up five (yes, five!) garlands to build up her display, she then pulled lengths down to one side to create an asymmetrical design that helps to balance the proportions of her impressive stone fireplace.
To the right of the mantel, she hangs five of McGee & Co.'s McCallister Stockings using Command hooks from Amazon, and finishes the look with a big ivory bow.
While Shea doesn't totally break down the ribbon-tying step-by-step in the video, it's actually pretty easy to follow along. She uses a wide, 4-inch ivory velvet ribbon – this 4" Ivory Velvet and Satin Wired Ribbon from Etsy is a near match, while Wayfair's Raw Edge Velvet Ribbon gives a slightly more rustic look – which has enough body to hold its shape while still draping beautifully.
Don't forget about the coffee table, too. Shea styled hers with two Tottenham Taper Holders, a Polished Brass Bell, and the Ashcroft Wicker Tray, among other things.
Rather than tying a traditional single bow, Shea appears to make two large, loose bows separately, each with generous loops and long trailing tails. 'Just decide how many loops you want, shape them with your fingers, and it comes together effortlessly,' she advises in the caption.
Then, she stacks them together and secures them with an extra piece of ribbon, creating one ultra-full bow with twice the movement and texture that gets tucked up under her foliage (presumably with another Command hook!).
Against the depth of the greenery, which looks like the McGee & Co.'s Pinecone and Berries Faux Garland and the Norfolk Pine Faux Garland layered together, and her roaring fire, the ivory bow is the perfect finishing touch to add some romance and drama.
The beauty of this method is how adaptable it is. Because the bows are tied individually, you can play with the size of the loops, the length of the tails, and even the direction the ribbon falls – perfect whether you're dressing a mantel, a wreath, or tying long velvet strands to trail of the branches of your Christmas tree.
Shop the Look
If you want to recreate Shea’s layered bow, this wide 4-inch velvet ribbon is the closest match to the ribbon Shea uses. The pre-wired lengths give each loop structure, while the soft ivory velvet will look beautiful with garlands, wreaths, and mantel greenery.
Shea’s asymmetric mantel wouldn’t be complete without her stockings, and this McCallister design brings a touch of vintage Christmas nostalgia. The embroidered cranberry red pattern adds a festive pop without overpowering the palette.
Prefer a ready-made bow? This oversized velvet topper delivers instant impact. At six feet long, it has the same sweeping drape Shea loves – no DIY required. It’s a great option for larger mantels, stairs, or the top of a tree.
Another easy option, these sweet velvet bow clips are a dream for anyone who wants the look of hand-tied ribbon without the fuss. The soft shade slots seamlessly into any Christmas scheme, and the clip back means you can add them on in seconds.
This is one of the many garlands featured in Shea’s own mantel display. It's full, textural, and dotted with pinecones and subtle berries for a natural, elevated finish. Layer it with a second garland for added volume, or let it shine on its own for a more understated take.
If you’re after something slightly softer and more relaxed, this raw-edge velvet ribbon is a lovely alternative. The unfinished edges give your bows a handcrafted feel, perfect for looser, more organic loops.
So if you’re looking to add a touch of softness or a hint of romance to your holiday decor this year, consider the bow trend. You can find an edit of 24 pretty bow pieces to shop here, and if you're after more Shea-approved ideas, check out Shea's outdoor Christmas bows for extra drama.
