There are lots of things you can do with ribbons, such as making crafts; however,
you want your piece of art or craft to be perfect if you’re going to spend all of that time on it, right?
Of course you do.
Types of Ribbon
First of all, you need to look at what it is you’re going to actually make;
depending on what you make, the material used may or may not be appropriate.
Or, on the other hand, you may be able to get a much better effect from one material or another, for example,
if you need to decorate a wedding cake one of the best materials you can use for effect is lace, satin or
silk, as they both give a little glamour and quality to the look of the cake.
Do not decorate a wedding cake with a material that is for example a solid, plain and
thick textured type of ribbon – in my experience, it doesn’t look great!
Once you have decided what you’re using the ribbon for, more often than not, you will get a good feel for which type of material it is you wish to use.
However, most people are unaware what ribbon materials are available and often go for a type that they have heard of.
Therefore, the list of ribbon types below may give you some fresh ideas and open your mind to a whole load of ribbons.
- Burlap – this material can be used to add some great texture to any arts and crafts project you want to.
There are different types of burlap ribbon i.e. choose between Faux, Wired, String, Twisted and so forth.
- Cotton – Everyone knows what cotton feels like, however, this can be really versatile and are many colours to choose from.
- Crinkle – Often used for baby showers, weddings and birthdays etc. The crinkle type ribbon gives a fantastic look in terms of texture and colour.
This is certainly different and stands out very well.
- Crochet / Lace – this type of ribbon gives off a ‘hand crafted’ look to whatever it is your decorating.
- Grosgrain – comes in many different patterns, colours and looks which makes it very versatile indeed and everyone should have grosgrain ribbon for when they need something a little different and unique.
- Mesh/ Net – fantastic for kid’s parties or at Christmas parties. This really does give off a colourful yet unique look to the whole room etc and kids just love it!
- Metallic – Well if ever you need a metal or chain look to your project, this is the best material that you can use; it really looks great.
- Raffia/Paper – very strange to think of ribbon being available in a paper material, but it’s true – you must have a look at the paper / raffia style ribbon.
- Satin – most people know how classy and stylish that satin is not just to look at, but also to touch and again is perfect for that special occasion.
- Silk – so soft and full of quality, silk is many peoples favourite in terms of what you can do with it – gift wrapping, decorating, using as a belt and so on. Possibilities are endless with this one!
- Solids – ideal for children’s parties or a plain look. This can add a little something to many different types of arts and crafts.
- Taffeta – gives an iridescent look and is rather cool – there are so many things you can do with this type of ribbon and gives a shimmer / changing colour look.
- Twill – some of the Twill type ribbons can give off an ‘old fashioned’ type look, a bit like tweed but not in the same pattern. This is a relatively thick material, but can be used for various arts and crafts projects.
There are other materials available at various online stores; however, if you want to get a feel for them,
you could have a look at your closest ribbon supplier.
Then you can familiarise yourself with the different textures, styles and colours.
Some are more upmarket than others; therefore, expect to pay more for ribbons such as Silk, as apposed to cotton.
However, depending on what you need the ribbon for could determine the style of ribbon you may purchase.
Featured images:
License: Image author owned
License: Image author owned
License: Image author owned
Bradley is a specialist and has vast knowledge when it comes to ribbons, as Bradley has made many different types of arts and crafts over the years.