I played the violin for many years. When I was first learning how to properly hold a bow, my teacher told me, "It's like a dog biting down." That just stuck in my mind somehow...
But, here is how it should look:
http://i.ehow.com/images/GlobalPhoto/Articles/4881382/150978_Full.jpg
If it's awkward for you, that's normal. It takes some time to get comfortable. Just keep a firm grip by "biting down", that's the best advice I can give you. Can't go wrong with more practice! It's weird you mention that your fingers slip when using the bottom part of the bow... I tend to have the most control when using the lower portion. Hmmm... Good luck, and it's great to see you taking up the violin!
Everyone needs to play Lost Odyssey! Any opposition to this and I will have to just say, "If it's a fight you want, you got it!"
