Ribbons - *Tips*

Wired Ribbon Tips

• Ribbon widths - ribbon sizes are not consistent between manufacturers. When selecting a ribbon for something specific be sure to take into consideration the width and length required. Some designs are based on specific size ribbons - if that ribbon width is not available, the design must be altered.
• Ribbon weight - some ribbons are heavier than others. One ribbon will ruche very easily and the next will not based on the weight of the ribbon. This often leads to the same size ribbon yielding different size flowers. Heavier ribbon may be harder to work with and will not gather as tightly.
• Wires - leave in or remove? The choice is yours. Quilter's Resource states the copper used in their ribbons will not rust. Unfortunately, not all ribbon is from Quilter's Resource. Many beautiful ribbons are made for the floral industry and will have a combination of copper and a "silvery" metal, which will rust. Be sure to check this before you decide. I remove the wire because I do not like the bulk and it doesn't add to the finished piece.
• DO NOT CUT OUT AHEAD OF TIME. The ribbon will fray. You can cut the length of the ribbon and set aside until you are ready to applique.
• Take advantage of the shading to accentuate old roses fading, the color of strawberries or light green on the underside of a leaf - dark green on top.

Silk Ribbon Tips

• Always work your petal stitches from the center to the outside edge. This will ensure the petals lay flat - it may take a little extra ribbon, but the results are worth it!
• Keep your stitches close together to minimize the ribbon that might show through the foundation fabric.
• Use a light hand when pulling the ribbon - the puffiness of the stitches adds a nice dimension.
• Secure the ribbon to the needle - Thread the needle and place the needle 2/3rds of the way down the ribbon. Pierce the needle through the ribbon at the shortest end of the ribbon and pull the silk ribbon until the needle is at the end. This will leave a small loop at the needle end. This process will protect your silk from needle fraying and maximize the ribbon you can use.
• Knot the ribbon by taking a small stitch at the "other" end of the ribbon. Start by placing the needle at the end of the ribbon, with the needle making a complete circle. Make a running stitch and pull the needle through. The stitch will make enough of a "knot" to secure the ribbon in place.
• When the last stitch is finished do a couple of small running stitches into ribbon on the wrong side of the block to secure the last of the ribbon. Do not leave a "tail" as it may show through the foundation fabric.