Let’s get acquainted with the essential materials and supplies we will need for ribbon embroidery, starting with the ribbons themselves. Ribbons come in various sizes, with the standard widths being 3 mm, 6 mm, 12 mm, and 24 mm.
For embroidery, we will also need special needles. They must have a wide eye so the ribbon can pass through easily without fraying. These are often referred to as chenille needles or darning needles. You will also need regular sewing thread, sharp scissors, and a disappearing fabric marker. You can draw your pattern with the marker, and the ink will naturally fade from the fabric after about 48 hours.
Other useful supplies include pearl cotton (Iris) threads, embroidery floss, and sometimes semi-wool yarn for finishing touches. Beads, seed beads, and lace will also come in handy for embellishments. For basic ribbon embroidery, this set of materials is more than enough to get started.
Ribbons can be either soft or stiff. If a ribbon is too stiff, it means it has been treated with a sizing agent, similar to starch. Generally, as you pull the ribbon through the fabric, the friction softens it and removes the coating. However, if the ribbon is excessively hard, I highly recommend gently washing it in warm, soapy water.
A few words about the base fabric: it is best for beginners to start with linen. Beautiful results can also be achieved on gabardine. In fact, you can use almost any fabric. A great tip when buying fabric is to bring a needle with you: if the needle passes through the weave easily, the fabric is perfect for your ribbon embroidery project.
