What Kinds of Ribbons Are There?

Ribbons come in many fabrics and styles.

Ribbons can be divided into two general classes: ribbons made from fabrics, and ribbons made from nonwoven materials --- commonly pressed plastic, although sometimes textile fibers with an adhesive. Fabric ribbons can be divided into cut and woven: those cut from a larger piece of cloth, and those woven in the desired width. Woven ribbons have a selvage, a tightly woven edge that doesn't fray, and are soft and flexible.

Nonwoven Materials

Curl nonwoven ribbons for decorative gift wrapping.

Nonwoven ribbons commonly have a satin appearance. They may be printed or metallic. They are too rigid and friable to use for clothes or soft furnishings, but are ideal for gift wrapping and floral arrangements. Curling ribbons form corkscrew curls when you pull them swiftly over a sharp edge. Other ribbons may be shredded to form a decorative fringe. Some kinds of nonwoven ribbon stick to themselves when moistened, making fancy bows easier to make.

Cut Ribbons

Cut ribbons, also called craft ribbons, are narrow strips of fabric cut from a larger piece, then treated with a stiffening agent that gives them body and helps prevent cut edges from fraying. Cut ribbons are stiff and scratchy, making them unsuitable for textile work, but you can use them to make pew bows, table decorations or adornments for floral bouquets.

Satin Ribbon

Satin ribbon has a lustrous sheen.

There are two types of woven satin ribbon. One has a satin side and a matte side; the other has a satin texture on both sides. Double-sided satin is heavier and more expensive than single-sided. Use it when both sides of the ribbon will be visible, for instance in bows, ribbon closures or hair ribbons. When one side will be hidden, economize with single-sided ribbon.

Picot Ribbons

Picot or feather-edged ribbons are woven with a row of tiny loops along each selvage. Use these satin ribbons in feminine designs, such as a dress for a little girl or a decorative sachet.

Sheer Ribbons

Sheer ribbons are translucent.

Sheer ribbons are made from organdy, chiffon or other delicate transparent fabrics. They are loosely woven from thin fibers. Some sheer ribbons are woven with satin stripes for contrasting textures. Sheer ribbons give a dreamy, romantic effect, which is ideal for wedding attire. Wired, they complement gifts and floral arrangements.

Wired Ribbons

Wired ribbons have a fine wire woven into each selvage. These help the ribbon hold a particular shape, such as a large bow or ribbon flower. They are often sheer. You can usually remove one or both wires if necessary.

Taffeta Ribbons

These crisp woven ribbons are available in many colors and patterns. Ombre taffeta shades from light to dark or from one color to another. Moire taffeta has a watermarked appearance. Taffeta may be woven in check or plaid, or printed with patterns such as polka dots. Taffeta ribbons make pretty hair ribbons and trim for clothes.

Jacquard and Brocade Ribbons

Jacquard ribbons are woven with a tapestry design. Brocade ribbons are jacquard ribbons with a raised, textured pattern. They are best used for trimming fabric or for other applications when the back won't be visible, as the wrong side of these ribbons is very pronounced.

Velvet Ribbons

Velvet ribbon can look rich and opulent.

Velvet ribbons are woven with a soft pile on one side and a plain matte surface on the other. The pile gives velvet's colors an extra richness. Use velvet to trim clothes and fabric ornaments, or to make ribbon jewelry such as chokers or cuffs.

Grosgrain Ribbons

Grosgrain is a crisp, sturdy fabric woven with a ridged texture. It holds its shape well and is a good choice for trimming hats or tote bags.

References

• "The Complete Photo Guide to Ribbon Crafts"; Elaine Schmidt; 2010
• "Creative Crafts You Can Do in a Day"; North Light Books; 2006
• "Ribbon Trims"; Nancy Nehring; 1999