Top 5 Practical Tips for Embroidery Ribbon Beginners

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 6 min read

Embarking on the journey of embroidery ribbon artistry can be as enthralling as it is daunting. Fear not, though, as this tutorial is designed to set you on the right path with our top five practical tips for beginners. From choosing the right materials to joining embroidery groups, this guide will assist in making your first steps in embroidery ribbon artistry as smooth as possible.

1. Choose the Right Materials

Just like a painter needs the right brushes, an embroidery ribbon artist needs the right materials. Picking out the perfect ribbon, needle, and fabric is a pivotal first step in your embroidery journey. Let's break down each of these choices.

Ribbon Selection

Not all ribbons are created equal—in the world of embroidery, silk ribbons reign supreme. Silk's smooth texture makes it easy to pull through fabric, and it's available in a plethora of colors and widths, typically from 2mm to 4mm. While you may be drawn to more decorative or textured ribbons, stick with silk when you're just starting out. It's forgiving to beginners and versatile enough for a wide range of designs.

Needle Types

Next up, needles. The most suitable type for working with embroidery ribbon is the chenille needle. Known for its large eye and sharp point, it allows the ribbon to pass through the fabric with minimal resistance. For beginners, a size 18 or 20 needle is a safe bet—it's large enough to handle but not so big that it will damage your fabric.

Fabric Choices

Finally, let's discuss fabric. When choosing fabric for embroidery ribbon projects, aim for something sturdy yet soft, like cotton twill or linen. These fabrics can withstand the pull of the needle and ribbon, but they're also pliable enough for intricate designs. Avoid stretchy or slippery fabrics until you've gained more confidence and skill.

Now that you're equipped with the right materials, you're one step closer to creating your first piece of embroidery ribbon art. Remember, it's all about practice and patience—happy stitching!

2. Learn Basic Stitches

With your materials in hand, it's time to get down to the brass tacks—learning the basic stitches. Mastering these three fundamental stitches: the straight stitch, the stem stitch, and the lazy daisy, will allow you to create an array of designs with your embroidery ribbon.

Straight Stitch

The straight stitch is the simplest of all. It's a single stitch that goes in one point and out the other. It's often used to create delicate details in embroidery ribbon art, such as the veins of a leaf or the stem of a flower. To make a straight stitch, simply pull your threaded needle up through the fabric, then push it back down a short distance away. Voila, your first straight stitch!

Stem Stitch

Next up is the stem stitch. As the name suggests, it's often used to create stems in floral designs, but can also be used to outline shapes and add textural details. This stitch involves making a series of overlapping straight stitches, creating a twisted line that's perfect for curves. Don't get discouraged if it takes a few tries to get right—once you master it, the stem stitch will be a go-to in your embroidery ribbon toolkit.

Lazy Daisy

Last but not least, the lazy daisy. This stitch is used to create cute, simple flowers with your embroidery ribbon. It's essentially a looped stitch that creates a teardrop shape. You can make a single lazy daisy for a standalone flower, or group several together for a bouquet. Just remember, the key to a perfect lazy daisy is maintaining even tension on your ribbon—too loose, and your petals will be floppy; too tight, and they'll be stiff.

Now you're armed with three fundamental stitches that will serve as the backbone of your embroidery ribbon art. Don't rush—take the time to practice and hone these skills, and you'll be crafting beautiful designs in no time.

3. Practice Ribbon Embroidery

Now that you've got the basic stitches under your belt, it's time to let your embroidery ribbon shine through practice. Like any craft, the key to mastering ribbon embroidery lies in patience, starting small, and trying different designs.

Start Small

It's tempting to dive headfirst into a large, complex project, but starting small is a great strategy, especially for beginners. Think of it as a warm-up—a chance to flex your creative muscles and get comfortable with the embroidery ribbon. A small project could be as simple as a single flower or a monogram. Remember, it's not about the size of the project, but the quality of your stitches and your enjoyment of the process.

Be Patient

Don't be too hard on yourself if you don't get it right the first time. The beauty of embroidery ribbon art lies in its intricacy and detail, which take time to perfect. So take a deep breath, relax, and let your hands work their magic. Every stitch is a step forward in your embroidery journey. Remember, patience is not just about waiting—it's about maintaining a positive attitude while you're at it.

Try Different Designs

Once you've mastered the basics, let your imagination run wild! Try different designs, play with colors, and experiment with textures. The sky's the limit when it comes to embroidery ribbon art. Whether it's a vibrant sunset, a delicate floral pattern, or even a portrait of your favorite pet, every design is a new opportunity to showcase your skills and creativity.

In the end, practicing embroidery ribbon is not just about improving your skills—it's about enjoying the process, expressing your creativity, and creating something beautiful with your own two hands. So pick up that needle and thread, and let's make some art!

4. Maintain Your Equipment

As with any craft, the condition of your tools plays a significant role in the quality of your work. This holds especially true for ribbon embroidery. You've chosen the right materials, practiced your stitches, and completed a few projects. Now, it's time to ensure your equipment stays in top shape.

Keep Needles Sharp

Working with a dull needle can lead to frayed embroidery ribbon, uneven stitches, and a whole lot of frustration. Keeping your needles sharp is certainly a priority. It's good practice to have a needle sharpener handy, but in a pinch, running your needle through a piece of folded sandpaper can help keep its point. Always remember: a sharp needle not only makes your work easier but also enhances the overall look of your embroidery.

Store Ribbons Properly

Proper storage of embroidery ribbons is equally important. Improper storage can lead to tangled, creased, or faded ribbons, which can affect the quality of your embroidery. Consider investing in a ribbon organizer or simply use sealable plastic bags. Whatever method you choose, the goal is to keep your ribbons clean, wrinkle-free, and easy to access.

Remember, maintaining your equipment is not just about prolonging its lifespan—it's about ensuring every stitch you make is the best it can be. Because when it comes to embroidery ribbon, it's the little details that make the biggest difference.

5. Join Embroidery Groups

Embroidery, like many other crafts, is not just about the final product—it's about the journey. And what's a journey without some good company? Joining embroidery groups can be an excellent way to learn, share ideas, and find inspiration for your next embroidery ribbon project. Let's see what options you have:

Local Clubs

Check your local community center or library to see if there are any embroidery clubs in your area. These clubs often host workshops and classes that can be a great resource for beginners. Plus, nothing beats the feeling of threading a needle, choosing your embroidery ribbon, and stitching away as you share a laugh with fellow embroidery enthusiasts.

Online Forums

If you don't have any local clubs or simply prefer a more digital approach, online embroidery forums can be a treasure trove of information. Websites like Reddit or Craftster have active embroidery communities where members post their projects, share tips, and answer questions. It's like having a round-the-clock support group at your fingertips.

Whether you choose to join a local club or an online forum, these groups offer a sense of community and a wealth of knowledge that can help you navigate your embroidery ribbon journey. Remember—you're never alone in your crafting adventures.

If you're looking to expand your embroidery skills beyond the basics, don't miss Irem Yazici's workshop, "Creative Ways to Use Traditional Hand Embroidery Techniques." This workshop is perfect for those who want to explore new and innovative ways to use their embroidery skills, taking their creations to the next level. Dive in and discover the endless possibilities of hand embroidery!