Silk Ribbon Embroidery - An Elegant Craft

Silk ribbon embroidery has an almost ethereal quality. Ordinary embroidery stitches, when done with silk ribbon take on a beautiful dimensional quality. The use of silk ribbon makes the embroidered flowers and leaves appear to be real. Silk ribbons stitches seem to float above the fabric, while other types of embroidery appear to bond to the background canvas.

Silk ribbon embroidery has many applications and is very versatile. It works up with ease and the results are seen very quickly. Because of the width of the silk ribbon, it provides greater coverage than ordinary embroidery floss. Depending on the skill level a small design can be completed in a matter of minutes. A larger one can be completed in an evening or two.

Silk ribbon embroidery can be used to decorate countless items A small motif adds charm to linens, clothing and towels. The application of silk ribbon embroidery is frequently used to decorate scarves, hair ornaments, hats, slippers, belts and ties. The uses are only limited by the crafters imagination.

Silk ribbon embroidery can be used to embellish cross-stitch and needlepoint projects. It is lovely when added to a quilt. It can be added on the tops of ordinary wooden boxes, porcelain jars, mirror inserts or fabric picture frames. Even a small motif added to an item is a beautiful addition. It can take an ordinary item and quickly turn it into and extraordinary keepsake.

A wide variety of fabrics can be used. Linen, cotton, medium to heavy-weight silk or wool are excellent selections for the background or canvas. Velveteen or velvet can also be used. Plain weave and even weave linens are the best selection for beginners. It is the easiest fabric to embroider due to the somewhat looser weave of the fabric.

Jeans, sweaters, sweatshirts, t-shirts and even socks are great candidates for silk ribbon embroidery. Silk ribbon embroidery can be added to cuffs, collars, necklines or pockets. When embroidering on woven fabrics and lightweight knits like t-shirts, it is best to fuse a woven interfacing to the backside, which will provide a firmer base for the motif.