The Complete Guide To Ribbon Types
Choosing the Right Ribbon for Crafts, Gift Wrapping and Decoration
Ribbon is one of the most versatile decorative materials used in crafts, floristry, gift wrapping and event styling. With so many different ribbon styles available, choosing the right type of ribbon can make a big difference to the finished look of your project.
From elegant satin ribbon used for luxury packaging to textured grosgrain ribbon for craft projects, each ribbon type offers a unique appearance, structure and feel. This guide explains the most popular ribbon types and helps you decide which ribbon is best suited to your needs.
What Are the Different Types of Ribbon?
There are many styles of ribbon available, each designed for different decorative purposes. Some ribbons are soft and luxurious, while others are more structured or textured.
The most commonly used ribbon types include:
• Double Satin Ribbon
• Velvet Ribbon
• Grosgrain Ribbon
• Tartan Ribbon
• Sheer or Organza Ribbon
Each ribbon type offers a different visual style and texture.
Double Satin Ribbon
Double satin ribbon is one of the most popular ribbon styles. It is woven so that both sides of the ribbon have a smooth satin finish, creating a luxurious sheen and elegant appearance.
Because both sides look identical, double satin ribbon is ideal for bows, gift wrapping and decorative trims where the ribbon may be visible from multiple angles.
Best uses for double satin ribbon
• Gift wrapping
• Wedding decorations
• Floristry arrangements
• Wreath making
• Craft projects
• Luxury packaging
Berisfords Double Satin Ribbon is particularly well known for its high quality and is available in over 80 colours and a wide range of widths.
Velvet Ribbon
Velvet ribbon has a soft, plush texture that creates a rich and luxurious appearance. Unlike satin ribbon, velvet absorbs light rather than reflecting it, giving the ribbon a deep, sophisticated finish.
Velvet ribbon is particularly popular during the autumn and winter seasons when deeper colours and textures are often used in decorative designs.
Best uses for velvet ribbon
• Luxury gift wrapping
• Winter wreaths
• Festive decorations
• Wedding styling
• Decorative packaging
Velvet ribbon works beautifully in deep tones such as burgundy, forest green and navy.
Grosgrain Ribbon
Grosgrain ribbon is easily recognised by its distinctive ribbed texture. The structured weave makes grosgrain ribbon extremely durable and resistant to creasing.
This durability makes it ideal for craft projects that require a ribbon that holds its shape well.
Best uses for grosgrain ribbon
• Hair bows
• Craft projects
• Sewing trims
• Decorative packaging
• Handmade accessories
Because of its strength, grosgrain ribbon is often used in both fashion and craft applications.
Tartan Ribbon
Tartan ribbon features traditional plaid patterns woven into the fabric. These ribbons often have a classic heritage feel and are particularly popular during the festive season.
Tartan designs add warmth and character to seasonal decorations.
Best uses for tartan ribbon
• Christmas wreaths
• Seasonal gift wrapping
• Festive decorations
• Craft projects
• Winter displays
Tartan ribbon pairs beautifully with natural materials such as pine cones, berries and evergreen foliage.
Sheer & Organza Ribbon
Sheer ribbon, also known as organza ribbon, is a lightweight translucent ribbon that creates a delicate and elegant appearance. Because the fabric is semi-transparent, light passes through the ribbon, giving it a soft and airy look.
Sheer ribbon is often layered with other ribbon types to create contrast and depth.
Best uses for sheer ribbon
• Wedding favours
• Chair decorations
• Gift wrapping
• Floristry work
• Decorative bows
Sheer ribbon is particularly popular for weddings and elegant event decorations.
How to Choose the Right Ribbon
Choosing the right ribbon depends on the type of project you are creating and the effect you want to achieve.
For example:
• Double satin ribbon – ideal for bows and gift wrapping
• Velvet ribbon – perfect for luxury designs and winter décor
• Grosgrain ribbon – best for durable craft projects
• Tartan ribbon – excellent for festive decorations
• Sheer ribbon – ideal for weddings and delicate displays
By understanding the characteristics of each ribbon type, you can choose the ribbon that best suits your design.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ribbon
What ribbon is best for bows?
Double satin ribbon is widely considered the best ribbon for use when making bows this is because both sides of the ribbon have the same smooth satin finish. As a result when the bow is tied and both sides of the ribbon are visible they still look equally attractive.
What ribbon is best for wreath making?
Satin ribbon, velvet ribbon and tartan ribbon are all popular choices for wreath making depending on the style and season. A lot of people like to use a mixture of different ribbon types in their wreaths as this add texture to the design as well as depth and make the finished project more interesting.
What ribbon works best for gift wrapping?
Satin ribbon is one of the most popular choices for gift wrapping because it creates elegant bows and complements many types of wrapping paper. Other choices are taffeta for a more rustic look and sheer for delicate packaging such as jewellery as this ribbon has a translucent look. Whilst some commercial packaging companies like to use Grosgrain for a high end look I would steer away from it unless your experienced as this ribbons thickness and stiffness can make it difficult to tie.
What ribbon is most durable?
Grosgrain ribbon is usually the most durable ribbon type because of its strong ribbed weave. It's hard waring and is popular as a binding or trimming on clothing especially due to its durability.
What is the difference between satin ribbon and grosgrain ribbon?
A good question! Satin ribbon has a smooth, glossy surface that reflects light, giving it an elegant and luxurious appearance. Whilst Grosgrain ribbon has a ribbed texture to it which makes it stronger and more structured, as a result it tend to be slightly duller in appearance. It is excellent for many uses especially for craft projects, hair bows and trims.
What ribbon is best for luxury gift wrapping?
Double satin ribbon is often the best choice for luxury gift wrapping because the smooth satin finish on both sides creates elegant bows and enhances the presentation of the gift. However if you want to go a step further then you cant bet Velvet as the soft fabric pile of the ribbon gives a depth, clarity and richness of colour that cant be beaten. However this is not a cheap option, so worth reserving for those special occasions.
What ribbon is best for Christmas decorations?
There is a lot to choose from as far as ribbons for Christmas are concerned. If we ignore the bespoke Christmas designs then Satin ribbon, velvet ribbon and tartan ribbon are all good popular choices for Christmas decorations. Velvet ribbon adds richness and texture, while tartan ribbon provides a traditional festive look.
Can ribbon be used for cake decoration?
Yes they can. Ribbon is often used to decorate cakes, particularly around the base of tiered cakes or to decorate the edges of cake boards where 12mm and 15mm are popular choices. Satin ribbon is a popular choice because of its smooth finish and elegant appearance. A word of caution here, if you are planning on using a ribbon which is going to have direct contact with food i.e icing, check that it is food safe first. There are ribbons out there that have been coated to protect the food and the ribbon. One issue people forget about is that fats and oils from the food can and will migrate into the ribbon over time which will result in some unslightly marks.
What ribbon works best for wedding decorations?
Satin and organza ribbons are commonly used for weddings because they create a soft and elegant look. They are often used for chair decorations, bouquets, table décor and wedding favours. For a high end look some people go a step further and have velvet bows made for place settings. Rustic themed weddings and rural setting wedding sometime like to go for Burlap and Hessian both of which give a rustic look but work exceptionally well with flowers.
What ribbon is best for floristry work?
Florists often use satin ribbon and organza ribbon to complement flower arrangements. These ribbons add colour and softness without overpowering the natural beauty of the flowers.
Does ribbon come in different widths?
Yes, ribbon is available in a wide range of widths. Narrow ribbons are ideal for crafts and gift wrapping, while wider ribbons are commonly used for bows, wreaths and decorative displays. Depending on the ribbon type the widths available can vary, for example our satin ribbon ranges come in 3mm to 100mm widths. Whilst Grosgrain is 6mm to 40mm, You will find that they are some special weaves out there such as organza in 29cm wide reels made especially for decorating wedding chair backs etc. So as you can see there are a lot to choose from.
How should ribbon be stored?
Ribbon should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keeping ribbon on its original spool helps maintain its shape and prevents creasing.
Can ribbon be reused?
In many cases ribbon can be reused, particularly if it has been used for gift wrapping or decorative bows. Carefully untie the ribbon and store it flat or on a spool. It's worth checking the care instructions on the label as some ribbons can be ironed which means you can press them to remove the creases , then there are good as new and ready to use over again.
Why do some ribbons look shinier than others?
The level of shine depends on how the ribbon is woven and the fibres used. Satin ribbon has a reflective surface which gives it a glossy appearance, while ribbons such as grosgrain or velvet have a more textured finish. The finish of the weave effect how the ribbon fibres sit and it are these that reflect the light.
What ribbon is best for crafting?
Grosgrain ribbon and satin ribbon are both popular for craft projects. Grosgrain provides strength and texture, while satin ribbon adds colour and elegance.
What ribbon colours are most popular?
Classic ribbon colours such as red, gold, ivory, green and navy are always popular. These colours are often used for festive decorations, gift wrapping and special occasions. Whilst White & Bridal White always remain a favourite because of there neutral tones which mean they go with anything.
Can different ribbon types be used together?
Yes, combining different ribbon types can create interesting textures and layered decorative effects. For example, satin ribbon can be paired with organza ribbon to add depth and contrast.
What ribbon is best for making large bows?
Wider satin ribbon or velvet ribbon is often used for large bows because the wider material helps the bow hold its shape and creates a fuller appearance. Another popular choice are wired edged ribbons, by there very nature they tend to be wider ribbons around 40mm to 63mm wide, the wire in the edges of the ribbon help the ribbon to hold its shape exceptionally well, making them firm favourites for Bow work.
What ribbon is best for seasonal decorations?
Seasonal decorations often use ribbon colours that reflect the time of year. For example, red and green are popular for Christmas, while pastel colours are often used for spring and Easter displays.
Is ribbon suitable for handmade gifts?
Ribbon is widely used to decorate handmade gifts because it adds colour, texture and a professional finishing touch to the item, there is not right or wrong as most ribbons will work well for this purpose.
What ribbon is best for wreath bows?
Satin ribbon and velvet ribbon are commonly used for wreath bows because they create bold, decorative shapes that stand out against foliage. However our go to ribbon would be a wired edge burlap or satin for the main bow with satin smaller bow mounted onto of this for effect,
Can ribbon be used for home décor?
Yes, ribbon is often used in home décor projects such as wreaths, table decorations, curtain ties and seasonal displays.
Why is ribbon popular for crafts?
Ribbon is lightweight, flexible and available in many colours and textures, making it ideal for a wide variety of craft and decorative projects.
What makes high-quality ribbon different?
High-quality ribbon is woven using better fibres and manufacturing techniques, resulting in smoother texture, richer colour and greater durability.
Browse Our Ribbon Collections
Explore our full range of ribbons including:
• Berisfords Double Satin Ribbon
• Velvet Ribbon
• Grosgrain Ribbon
• Tartan Ribbon
• Sheer & Organza Ribbon
Each ribbon is available in a variety of colours and widths, making it easy to find the perfect ribbon for your project.their