I came across this article today. I know there have been a few DIY tie/bowtie projects posted on the forum so I thought I'd add this one -- perhaps someone will find it useful.

I think tie widths are a bit like women's heeled shoe styles or skirt lengths. Sometimes one style is "in" but the next year there's a full reversal. So I guess if it's a skinny tie year and you don't have any, this guide might be what you're after.

http://www.designmom.com/2010/08/diy-skinny-ties/