20 Types of Ribbon, Best Ribbon Styles for Crafts
There are many types of ribbon, from satin and grosgrain ribbon for sewing and hair bows to wired, velvet, organza, and burlap ribbon for crafts and decorating. Each ribbon has a different texture, appearance, and purpose, so choosing the right type can make a big difference to your project. In this guide, I’ll show you 20 different types of ribbon, what they are made from, and their best uses for sewing, crafts, gift wrapping, bows, weddings, and decorating.
Types of Ribbon (Quick Guide)
Ribbon comes in many materials, textures, widths, and finishes. Some of the most common types of ribbon are satin, grosgrain, velvet, organza, lace, wired, burlap, curling, raffia, tulle, brocade, and metallic ribbon.
- Satin ribbon – Smooth and shiny; best for bows, gifts, clothing, and crafts.
- Grosgrain ribbon – Ribbed and durable; ideal for hair bows, sewing, and crafts.
- Velvet ribbon – Soft and luxurious; best for clothing, accessories, and decorating.
- Organza ribbon – Lightweight and sheer; popular for weddings and gift wrapping.
- Wired ribbon – Holds its shape; ideal for wreaths, large bows, and floral arrangements.
- Lace ribbon – Decorative and delicate; used for sewing, crafts, and vintage-style projects.
- Burlap ribbon – Rustic and textured; popular for wreaths and home décor.
- Curling ribbon – Thin and easy to curl; commonly used for gifts and balloons.
20 Different Types of Ribbon
Ribbons make rosettes for award winners in competitions and can beautify wreaths and wedding bouquets. In fact, ribbon, in the form of noodles, has even crept into the culinary world! The humble ribbon is a symbol of awareness and support used widely to draw attention to great international causes. Ribbons are made from a wide variety of fabrics and in just about every color and size you can imagine.
The following different types of ribbons are the most well-known. Used by sewers, crafters, DIY and florists, they are worth adding to your collection of sewing and craft embellishments. Ribbon comes in various widths and types of fibers. Ribbon materials include cotton, nylon, polyester, silk, hemp and even tulle.
1. Satin Ribbon
This is a favorite type of ribbon for the majority of craft projects and comes in just about every color you can imagine. The variety is unlimited, and the satin ribbon is smooth, shiny, and easy to tie. Satin ribbon can be single-faced, printed on one side, or double-faced satin. Most satin ribbons are made from nylon, rayon or polyester. You will see many ribbon bows made from satin types of ribbon.
2. Grosgrain Ribbon
A favorite in the crafting world, grosgrain ribbon, with its hard-wearing fiber blend, is used for all kinds of craft activities. Grosgrain types of ribbon can also be used for sewing projects and give hems a bit of body due to their stiffness. It ties well and comes in a wide variety of colors too. Grosgrain ribbon has distinctive ridges across its length.
3. Lace Types of Ribbon
Add elegance and a touch of class to any occasion with a lace types of ribbon. Lace ribbon can be sewn onto handmade clothes and combines well with burlap to give a shabby chic feel to ribbon décor. I particularly like cotton lace on clothing.
4. Burlap Ribbon
Burlap ribbon is corse and made of the fibers of jute or hemp. It has a wide appeal for crafts or décor looking for a natural or rustic element. Burlap ribbon teams up well with other ribbon types such as lace or satin.
5. Velvet Ribbon
The soft, plush, and raised texture of the velvet ribbon makes it symbolic of luxury and elegance. Velvet types of ribbon have a cut pile and are a classic winter trim.
6. Wired Ribbon
Florists and decorators love wired ribbons. The wire on the sides of the ribbon makes this ribbon easy to manipulate for all sorts of décor ideas. Bouquets, wreaths, corsages and adding a touch of class to a table setting are the perfect opportunities to use wired edges ribbons.
7. Paper Ribbon Types
Crinkled paper ribbon is a very economical option for craft projects. It is easily turned into bows and makes a good wrapping option for gifts.
8. Curling Ribbon
Curling ribbon can be crimped or smooth. It is ideal for craft projects and scrapbooking. Curling types of ribbon come in many different colors and add value to gift wrapping and gift baskets too.
9. Raffia Ribbon
Raffia joins the ranks of natural fiber ribbons. It is useful in all kinds of gift wrapping, tying up presents, and adding something rustic to wreaths and décor.
10. Mesh Ribbon
This interesting open-weave or net ribbon is a great addition to all kinds of décor. It ties easily and adds volume to bows and wreaths. At Christmas time, the mesh ribbon is a cheerful festive way to create table décor and seasonal wreaths.
11. Tulle Types of Ribbon
The light airy feel and look of tulle give a fantasy appearance to décor areas that use this type of ribbon. It can be layered and doubled up into large soft bows. Wedding venues and bride’s bouquets look elegant and ethereal with the addition of a touch of tulle ribbon.
12. Brocade Ribbon
Brocade or jacquard ribbon is another type of ribbon used for decorative purposes. It is made to suit heavier fabrics and often has a silver or gold thread running through it. Brocade ribbon lends itself to special décor items like hatbands and other accessories.
13. Silk Ribbons
Silk ribbons are lightweight and often hand-dyed and used for delicate floral embroideries.
14. Metallic Ribbons
Metallic ribbons look beautiful but are generally very stiff and, therefore best for craft projects rather than sewing.
15. Glitter Ribbon
Fabric glitter types of ribbons are often used for clothing and hair accessories. The glitter threads do make this ribbon a little stiffer, but it is normally flexible enough to sew with a sewing machine. It does tend to be a little scratchy, so use it strategically on clothing.
16. Printed Ribbons
In addition to different compositions, ribbons can also have different patterns and designs printed or woven into them.
Printed ribbons can be customized to accentuate and brand items in the business world. Printed ribbon will add a personal touch to weddings and special occasions. Ribbons can be printed with logos, patterns, and polka dots too. Printed ribbons may be made from various fabrics, including satin or grosgrain.
Here are some common types of ribbon with printing options:
- Plaid – Plaid designs and gingham add color to crafts and sewing projects.
- Floral designs – Ribbons printed with floral patterns make lovely summer or spring items. Floral ribbon ties in well with seasonal arrangements and can add an extra flair to the Christmas table.
- Spots and stripes – Polka dots and stripes are very common on ribbons and add a cheerful pop of color.
17. Picot Ribbons
Picot edge ribbons have a fancy edge that looks like tiny loops. This gives it a textured look for clothing and home decor. The middle of the ribbon is often satin or grosgrain.
18. Organza Ribbon
Organza and organdy is a fine, sheer fabric that makes beautiful ribbons. These organza ribbons are commonly found in bridal projects.
19. Twill Tape
Twill tape ribbon is a usual cotton trim that has diagonal ridges across it. Twill is a useful ribbon for sewing and stabilization that is usually white or cream in color.
20. Taffeta Types of Ribbon
Taffeta ribbons are not as common anymore as some of the other types. They have a stiffer feel and beautiful sheen.
Ribbon Projects
- How to Make a Bow – Learn how to make a bow that can be attached to clothing or hair clips.
- How to Line Alligator Clips – you can use any type of ribbon to line clips.
- Stop Ribbon Fraying – This is an important technique for most craft projects where you want a clean edge that won’t fray.
- How to Sew Ribbon
How to Choose the Best Type of Ribbon
The best ribbon depends on what you are making. Consider the ribbon’s softness, stiffness, width, fiber content, and whether it needs to hold its shape or lie flat.
- For sewing: Choose soft, flexible ribbons such as satin, grosgrain, velvet, lace, twill tape, or organza, depending on the project.
- For hair bows: Grosgrain and satin are popular choices. Grosgrain is particularly useful when you want the bow to hold its shape.
- For gift wrapping: Satin, organza, curling, paper, and printed ribbons are easy decorative choices.
- For wreaths and decorating: Wired ribbon, mesh, burlap, and velvet work particularly well because they add volume and structure.
- For weddings: Satin, silk, lace, organza, and velvet ribbons can create a softer, more elegant appearance.
- For embroidery: Silk ribbon is lightweight and flexible and is commonly used for ribbon embroidery and dimensional flowers.
Alternatives to Ribbons
If you can’t get to the shops for some ribbon for your latest craft project, then consider cutting up some fabric to make bias tape. This fabric tape is cut on the diagonal, so it has a slight stretch. The diagonal cut also ensures that the fabric frays less. Bias tape is especially a great option for projects that need a wider ribbon that can get too expensive. Learn how to make bias tape.
Types of Ribbon FAQs
Satin, grosgrain, velvet, organza, lace, wired, burlap, curling, raffia, tulle, and metallic ribbons are some of the most common types. Satin and grosgrain are particularly popular for sewing and crafts.
Grosgrain ribbon is excellent for structured hair bows because its ribbed texture gives it some stiffness. Satin ribbon is a good choice when you want a softer, shinier bow, while wired ribbon is best for large decorative bows.
Satin ribbon has a smooth, shiny surface, while grosgrain ribbon has distinctive horizontal ribs and a slightly stiffer texture. Satin creates soft, elegant bows, while grosgrain tends to hold its shape better.
Satin, grosgrain, velvet, lace, organza, and twill tape can all be used for sewing. The best choice depends on whether the ribbon is being used as a decorative trim, structural tape, binding, or embellishment.
Wired ribbon holds its shape best because thin wires run along its edges. Grosgrain and taffeta are also relatively stiff and useful when you need more structure.
Types of Ribbon – In Conclusion
With so many types of ribbon available, choosing the right one comes down to your project and the finish you want. Satin and grosgrain are versatile choices for sewing and bows, while velvet and silk add a luxurious finish. Wired, mesh, and burlap ribbons are ideal for wreaths and decorating, and organza and lace are beautiful for weddings and delicate crafts. Once you’ve chosen your ribbon, try using it to make bows, trim clothing and accessories, decorate gifts, or add finishing touches to your next sewing or craft project.
Author - Luisa Clare
Luisa Clare is the founder of Treasurie, a sewing and crochet education platform offering step-by-step tutorials and printable patterns. With over 15 years of experience in dressmaking, pattern design, crochet, and craft education, she specialises in teaching beginners through clear, easy-to-follow lessons. Her tutorials and patterns are used by home sewists and crocheters worldwide to build practical skills and confidence. Learn more about Luisa and Treasurie.
It is a bit of personal taste. The satin does look prettier but the ends will fray more easily. Cut them at an angle with sharp scissors and seal the ends with clear glue or nailpolish. Thanks for reading.
Hi. Great description, thanks! Quick question… I’d like to tie bows on ornaments. Would you suggest I use grosgrain or satin? I was leaning towards satin because it’s a prettier finish but I want to make sure that the bow doesn’t come undone. Thanks!