Bow making tools and methods of using the same comprising templates and size guides for crafting bows by hand is disclosed. In some embodiments, the template may comprise a non-rectangular body having (i) a front face, (ii) a back face, and (iii) a plurality ribbon positioning surfaces; a plurality of ribbon securing elements; and optionally, one or more apertures defined within the body. In some embodiments, the size guide may comprise a non-rectangular body having (i) a front face, (ii) a back face, and (iii) a plurality sides; a plurality of ribbon positioning surfaces; optionally, at least one slot defined within the body; and optionally, a combination element comprising at least one ribbon positioning surface and at least one slot. Method of using the provided templates, size guides, or combination thereof, to construct bows are also disclosed.