I came across this video I made a few years ago for the sadly late-lamented Chester Barrie in which I show how to tie a bow tie. If you are a beginner, I hope you find it useful. If a skilled bow tie wearer, I hope it accurately describes the best technique. Do let me know if you know a better way!
Tying a bow tie is perseverance and practice. As I say at the end, tying a bow is essentially the same as tying your shoe laces. The skill is worth acquiring as a self-tie is so much cooler than a pre-tied bow ;)
For those of you who wish to build a bow tie collection, last week I featured a maker of bow ties - both formal and casual - see below.