How to Cut a Ribbon so it Doesn't Fray
Whether you're wrapping presents, decorating, participating in grade school art class, or dedicating that new hospital you have built as a charitable tax write off, ribbon cutting is as close to a universal human crafting experience as one can get. As such, every time a ribbon is cut, the same peril arises: the dreaded fray. Nothing can so effectively ruin what is intended to be the final piece of flair on a project than the unkempt ends of a ribbon falling apart.
Things You'll Need
- Sharp scissors
- Ribbon
- Clear "Scotch" tape
- Candle
- Iron
- Clear-drying glue
- Hairspray
- Clear nail polish
Instructions
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Cutting the Edge
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1
Determine where and how you wish to cut the ribbon. Note that angled cuts are, in general, less likely to fray.
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2
Place clear tape over the site of your intended cut. With the sharpest scissors possible, cut the ribbon through the tape.
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3
Remove the tape after cutting to expose the newly trimmed edge.
Options for Sealing Synthetic Ribbons
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4
Hold the newly cut edge approximately 1/4-inch from the candle, allowing the heat from the flame to slightly melt the end of the ribbon. Be careful not to set the ribbon on fire!
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5
Run a hot iron quickly over the edge you have just made. Use a medium heat setting, to avoid melting the ribbon. If you are using an iron without variable settings, place a paper towel between the iron and the ribbon as you sear the edge.
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6
Practice these techniques on a non-essential piece of the same ribbon to determine the speed at which you will move the iron.
Options for Sealing Any Ribbon Type
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7
Apply a small amount of clear-drying craft glue to the cut end of the ribbon. Remove any excess so that the end of the ribbon is only slightly dampened.
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8
Spray the end of the ribbon with hair spray to seal the cut edge. Test the hairspray on a non-essential piece of the same ribbon to determine possible color side effects.
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9
Apply a small amount of clear nail polish to the end of the ribbon. Test the nail polish on a non-essential piece of the same ribbon to determine possible color side effects.
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