How To Make Ribbon From Fabric

Learn how to make ribbon from fabric in this easy tutorial! I’m sharing my step by step instructions, plus some of my favorite fabric options!

Today I wanted to share one of my best decorating tricks with you… turning fabric into ribbon! It’s so simple to do and I love the creative freedom it allows.

Sometimes finding cute ribbon with a specific pattern in mind can be hard! Or, you find something you love, and it’s really expensive per roll!

I’ve used this trick several times, and each time I do, I’m always reminded how much I love it! 😀

Plus, this is such a budget-friendly way to create bulk ribbon. I’ve even used this tutorial to create the garland on my favorite Christmas tree!

A simple and easy way to make your own ribbon from fabric! Full tutorial at The Wood Grain Cottage

How To Make Ribbon From Fabric

It’s super simple to do, and really only requires the fabric and a pair of scissors!

Here’s how you make it…

First, lay your fabric on the floor, or flat surface, length wise….

A simple and easy way to make your own ribbon from fabric! Full tutorial at The Wood Grain Cottage

Then, decide how wide you want your ribbon to be, and snip a small section of the fabric with the scissors…

A simple and easy way to make your own ribbon from fabric! Full tutorial at The Wood Grain Cottage

Next, begin by pulling the fabric, then place your opposite hand to hold the fabric in place…

A simple and easy way to make your own ribbon from fabric! Full tutorial at The Wood Grain Cottage

And just keep pulling the two apart…

A simple and easy way to make your own ribbon from fabric! Full tutorial at The Wood Grain Cottage

Until you get the very end of your fabric…

A simple and easy way to make your own ribbon from fabric! Full tutorial at The Wood Grain Cottage

You will notice a bunch of loose threads…

A simple and easy way to make your own ribbon from fabric! Full tutorial at The Wood Grain Cottage

Just start pulling them out of the ribbon strip you just made…

A simple and easy way to make your own ribbon from fabric! Full tutorial at The Wood Grain Cottage

And don’t worry, you will have a whole pile of thread once it’s over…

A simple and easy way to make your own ribbon from fabric! Full tutorial at The Wood Grain Cottage

By removing the extra thread, it leaves the ribbon with a beautiful frayed edge on both sides. And one of the best things about this, is you can determine the length and width of your ribbon.

I’ve done little pieces, to big, skinny to wide! It works the exact same every time! Plus, it’s a great way to hang wreaths, make rosette’s, wrap presents, or make garland! The uses are endless!

A simple and easy way to make your own ribbon from fabric! Full tutorial at The Wood Grain Cottage

There are some fabrics that work better for this, and I’ve found that some velvet does work and some does not. In that case, I just cut the fabric to my desired width of ribbon.

A simple and easy way to make your own ribbon from fabric! Full tutorial at The Wood Grain Cottage
A simple and easy way to make your own ribbon from fabric! Full tutorial at The Wood Grain Cottage

Once you try it, you’ll be hooked! And because of my addiction, we’re going to need to build a bigger ribbon caddy… I’m on it!

Make Your Own Ribbon From Fabric

Below I’m sharing some of my favorite fabric options that would create really beautiful ribbon!


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I hope you love this easy, decorating trick!

12 Comments

  1. I can’t wait to try this. I have a ton of fabric from when I used to have time to sew. I have two small kids, work-full-time and just don’t have time to do it right now. I have some that would be great for wrapping gifts! Thanks!

  2. Great post on a simple DIY for the holiday that doesn’t put any additional stress on the pocket book! Will have to remember!
    xo. Leslie
    Segreto Finishes

  3. Can’t wait to see your home tour! I am slowly getting my post done of Christmas around here as well. Love your simple idea for the ribbon, great fabric choice ! Take care!

    1. In order to make a stiffer ribbon, you’ll need to either double up the fabric, or use thicker fabric. I’m not sure this tutorial would work on a thicker fabric. At that point, you may just need to cut it into strips rather than tearing the fabric. I hope that helps.

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