How to Design With Ribbon Yarn
Ribbon yarn can create interesting effects when knitted or crocheted; however, designing with ribbon yarn poses specific challenges. Ribbon yarns vary in fiber type, weight and width. These all effect the end result when you work with the yarn. Create unusual and beautiful garments or home decor items from your own designs using the many interesting novelty ribbon yarns on the market.
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Instructions
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Swatching With Ribbon Yarn
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1
Knit or crochet a swatch in the ribbon yarn you have chosen. A standard 4-inch by 4-inch swatch is adequate to determine gauge, a larger swatch is helpful to better understand the overall drape of the fabric.
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2
Wet block your swatch. Soak, then roll the swatch in a towel to remove excess moisture.
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3
Pin flat and allow to dry. If the yarn fabric is too stiff after drying, work with a larger needle or hook. If the fabric is too open, use a smaller needle or hook.
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4
Measure your gauge. Determine the number of stitches and rows over four inches. Assess the amount of stretch in the fabric and compare your gauge to your design.
Sketching and Creating the Design
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Sketch out your design, working with simple shapes. Choose a pattern that makes the most of the characteristics of the ribbon yarn.
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Use your gauge measurements to create a pattern for your ribbon yarn design. Divide the total measurement by the number of stitches per inch to determine how many stitches you should cast on for your initial chain. If you are making a 12-inch wide wrap, and have a gauge of four stitches per inch, you need to cast on 48 stitches or begin with a 48-stitch crochet chain.
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Knit or crochet your design, noting any shaping or pattern changes you make along the way.
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8
Test knit your pattern a second time, altering as necessary.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep stitch patterns and shapes simple. Drop stitches work well in ribbon yarn; however, cables and lace patterns do not show up well. Work at a loose gauge to avoid twisting the ribbon. Loosely knit or crocheted, the ribbon may untwist when blocked. Consider having another knitter or crocheter try the pattern to make sure your design is easy to read and understand.
Be sure to hand wash your ribbon yarn design and lay it flat to dry. This is especially important if you are working with a wool-based ribbon yarn.
