How to Make a French Knot With Ribbon

Ribbons suitable for tying elegant ribbon French knots.

Ribbon French knots are a great way to embellish simple buttons on an elegant dress like a wedding dress. The ribbon knot looks like a flower, and the dress closure is usually a small elastic loop that slips over a button or pearl. When the ribbon is used, it can completely obscure a plain button and add a whimsical detail to the dress that looks expensive when it isn't. This type of ribbon button combination can also be used on gloves, veils and hair ornaments.

Things You'll Need

• Small white or clear button
• 1/2-inch ribbon
• Scissors
• Fabric glue

Instructions

1. Pick a small button that is flat with four holes. Choose white, transparent or the color of your ribbon.

2. Cut 6 inches of 1/2-inch ribbon. Select a thin ribbon that has some shine to it like an organdy ribbon.

3. Cut the ends of the ribbon to a sharp point. Thread one end down through one hole and up through another. Pull the ribbon through half way. Wrap the other end of the ribbon around the ribbon coming out of the button. Wrap at least three times for a 1/4-inch size knot.

4. Thread your first ribbon back through a third hole and pull it tight. Thread the other ribbon through the last hole. Tie or glue the ribbon to the back of the button and cut off the excess. Use fabric glue.

Tips & Warnings

• Try different types of ribbon to create different shapes.

References

• Stitch School: French Knots
• Feeling Stitchy: French Knot