How to Prevent a Ribbon From Raveling

Frayed ribbon is unsightly on any craft project.

Using ribbons in sewing or crafting is simple, and quickly dresses up projects. When ribbons get raveled and frayed, however, the crafts can quickly look old and worn. Keep that from happening by halting the fraying process before it starts. There are three easy things you can do to keep your ribbon from raveling; two of them use items you probably already have at home. These steps take only minutes to do, so you can quickly be on your way to finishing your craft project.

Things You'll Need

• Clear nail polish
• Match, lighter or candle
• Fray check

Instructions

1. Lay the end of the ribbon on the table. Put newspaper or a paper plate under the edge to catch any spills or drips.

2. Coat the very edge of the ribbon with clear nail polish. Be sure to get both the front and back of the ribbon edge. Allow it to dry thoroughly before using.

3. Hold the edge of the ribbon near a lit match, lighter or candle. Do not touch the flame to the ribbon, simply hold it close enough to melt the tiny bit of plastic in the ribbon. This will finish off the edge of the ribbon, keeping it from raveling.

4. Coat the end in Fray Check. Be sure to get both sides of the edge, just as with the nail polish. Fray Check can be purchased in most craft or fabric stores. Allow it to dry before using.

Tips & Warnings

• Test the nail polish and Fray Check on a scrap piece of ribbon to ensure that it doesn't change the color. Fray Check sometimes appears white on darker fabric.

• Fray Check can yellow with age.

Resources

• Dritz: Fray Check