What Is Grosgrain Ribbon?

Grosgrain is a fabric that is tightly woven to produce a crisp and sturdy fabric. Another characteristic of grosgrain is that it has parallel ridges that further enhance the sturdiness of this fabric. The most prevalent use of grosgrain is to make ribbons. The ribbons that are created with grosgrain are sturdy and can be used in a wide variety of ways.

Types

Grosgrain ribbon comes in a wide variety of colors, patterns and widths. Grosgrain is also available for purchase in small measured amounts and also in larger amounts by purchasing an entire spool. Grosgrain ribbon can be purchased from fabric stores, crafting stores and online.

Function

Grosgrain ribbon can be used as a trim for garments to add interest, contrast and color to finished clothing. Grosgrain ribbon is also often used for making sashes and ties on dresses, for making bows on hats, for embellishing towels, sheets, and other linens, and for displaying military medals when they are worn.

Features

Grosgrain ribbons are typically made from silk, nylon or synthetic products. Grosgrain ribbon can appear glossy or dull, can be solid colored, striped or polka-dotted. The parallel ribs of grosgrain ribbon run perpendicular to the long edges of the ribbon and are very close together.

Warning

Grosgrain ribbon must be sewn carefully to make sure that the edges do not fray. This is especially true when grosgrain ribbon is used to make sashes or ties for dresses. Carefully hem the raw edges of grosgrain ribbon or use a product called "Fraycheck" to seal the edges. In addition, pins must be used carefully with grosgrain ribbon because if pins are inserted into the ribbon, the holes may be permanently apparent after the pins are removed.

Popular Use

A popular use for grosgrain ribbons is for making hair ribbons and bows. Because grosgrain ribbon is sturdy and stiff, this kind of ribbon creates hair bows that are substantial and stay crisp and attractive when used in hair styles. The many different colors, widths and patterns of grosgrain ribbon also make this a perfect material for using to make hair bows.