Using a narrow ribbon like binding - is it possible??

[RememberToPlaywiththeKids]

I have some lovely 1cm wide 'furry' ribbon that I would like to use to bind a hem and also use between 2 sections of a skirt but without losing the width of the ribbon (within reason!!).

Is this just too narrow to be used like this?

How else can I use ribbon to decorate a skirt?

Depends on your sewing skills - i think it's doable as a binding...but i think you'd lose the width.

But could you not just put it an inch or two higher up on the skirt - more like an edge decoration?

It is probably too narrow.

In terms of binding, unless it's a fine, flexible ribbon, it won't be suitable because it's not bias ribbon (meaning it doesn't curve).

I would use probably use the ribbon to create ribbon roses on a skirt. Start in the centre of your "rose" with the end of the ribbon and twist, pinning down with small stitches as you go. Create a collection of three roses, on the front bottom, but to one side.

Or put the ribbon round the bottom of the skirt about 3cms up from the hem to create a band. Sew it round the waistband but leave the ends long so you can tie it in a bow at the side (obviously, this is only possible if the skirt zips at the side!) or create belt loops and thread the ribbon through as a belt.

ooh I love all those ideas!!!

It is a non-bias ribbon - does that mean I can't really use it along a curved edge / more like large shallow scalloped edges really I suppose.

unless you are a sewing whizz kid, no, most people would find that really difficult, so I wouldn't recommend it on that sort of "scalloped" hem.......

as its narrow, if it wasn't scalloped, & you are skilled enough, you COULD get away with sewing it along the edge of curved hem, especially if you sew it reverse side up, onto the BACK of the raw hem edge & then fold it back ont itself- over- onto the right side of the hem, so that it is now - right side up & then top stitch along the very edge of the ribbon, easing it onto the hem as you go

you will end up with a narrow aprox 0.5 cm ribbon edging, & this should be narrow enough to make the curve of the hem manageable

sounds tricky and frustrating to be honest- save the ribbon and save your sanity!

good advice!!

Good tip for how to edge with things generally though rockin - that was going to be one of my future questions!!