I followed the instructions for the loopy bow off of this site. I'm not sure what I did wrong so I need some advice. When I hung the strips of fondant on the dow rod, they starting stretching. So I made them thicker and they did the same thing. So I used a paper towel roll with wax paper and hung them on that. I let them dry for 24 hours and when I went to remove them they cracked in several places. All but 3 of the strips broke completely. Any pointers or tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Kim

What kind of fondant did you use? I'm in the middle of making my first bow, so I don't have much experience for you...but I've been reading a lot.
It sounds like the fondant was too soft or wet. Is this MMF or purchased fondant? I'm following a Wilton method that says roll ribbon 1/4 inch thick, cut 1 inch strips about 8" long, fold over, pinch ends together, and lay them on their sides to dry. This might work better for you. Be sure that you powder the drying surface well.

Well, I tried to post a response to you and it posted as a separate post. So here is what I said

I personally do not do the hangy thing. Mine stretched also and I didn't like the results. Or they would stick to the pole.

So this is what I do. I roll out the fondant, cut it in the strips, fold the two ends together. Then I lay it on it's side as a loop (on wax paper) and let it dry that way. So from the top it looks like this () kind of.

I hope this makes sense. I think this is the method that wilton has in some of the yearbooks. Not sure though.

Another tip, to making fondant bows, is to add some tylose powder (small amount goes a long way), to your fondant. It will harden much quicker, and I find they are much easier to work with. The thinner you can get your ribbons, the prettier they're going to look. Lay them on their sides till they are hardened (at least 24 hours). I form larger bows around empty TP rolls or you can use rolled up paper towel.

Thanks for all your help. What is Tylose Power and where do you get it? Thanks, Kim