How to Choose a Wooden Bow Tie — What to Look For Before You Buy

Wooden bow ties have come a long way since they first appeared at UK Christmas markets in the 1990s. What was once a novelty has become a genuinely considered accessory — worn by TV presenters, gifted at weddings, and shipped to customers worldwide. But not all wooden bow ties are created equal. Here's what to look for before you buy.

The wood matters

Different woods have very different characters. Lighter woods like maple or ash give a contemporary, minimal feel. Darker woods — walnut, wenge, ebony — are richer and more formal. At Wooden Ties, we work with sustainably sourced timber, which means the grain pattern on every tie is unique. No two are ever identical.

Batwing, butterfly, or articulated?

Wooden bow ties come in a few distinct styles. Our batwing and butterfly shapes are crafted from a single piece of solid wood with an adjustable ribbon fastening at the back — easy to put on, no knotting required. We also make an articulated wooden bow tie: three separate wooden sections joined together with elastic, so the bow tie moves naturally at the joints. It fastens with a simple elastic loop over the head — no clips or ribbon. Same distinctive wood grain look, with a little more give when you move.

Weight and comfort

A well-made wooden bow tie should be light enough to wear all day. Ours are crafted to sit comfortably against a collar without pulling — something worth checking if you're buying from an unknown maker.

Occasion

Wooden bow ties work brilliantly for weddings (especially as groomsmen gifts — each one is naturally unique), Christmas parties, creative workplaces, and anyone who wants to make a quiet statement without shouting about it.

Where we've been featured

We were recently named among the world's best wooden bow tie makers by The Wood Fashion — which we'll admit made our day. You can read more about our press coverage on our Press & Media page.

Ready to find yours? Shop wooden bow ties →