How to Make Ribbons for Nametags

Use any type of fabric ribbon to make a name tag.

Name tags are important for an event at which attendees don't know one another. Wearing name tags encourages conversation and helps make people feel more at ease during introductions. Name tags sometimes are ugly, large and have a sticky back that leaves remnants on the wearer's clothing. Create name tags out of ribbon instead.

Things You'll Need

• Ribbon 1/2- to 1-inch wide
• Scissors
• Heat-transfer paper
• Printer
• Computer
• Iron
• Safety pins

Instructions

1. Cut the ribbon into 2 1/2-inch lengths, one for each name tag.

2. Type the names for the name tags on a computer. Choose a font that is bold and crisp. The font size cannot exceed the width of the ribbon. Begin with 24-point type and work your way up.

3. Print a test page of the names. Make sure the type fits within the ribbon. Leave at least 1/16-inch above and below the type. Retype the names in a smaller point size if necessary.

4. Reverse the type so that it reads backwards. Many programs, including Photoshop and Illustrator, have this feature.

5. Place the heat-transfer paper in the printer with the good side down, so that the writing on the back of the page faces up.

6. Print the names on the heat-transfer paper. Cut out each name.

7. Place each name on a piece of ribbon, face down.

8. Press the back of the paper from edge to edge for 10 seconds using an iron.

9. Peel off the paper so that only the letters and film remain on the ribbon.

10. Attach a safety pin to the top edge of each name tag.