How to Make Ruched Ribbon
Ruched ribbon is ribbon that has been gathered into a strand of loops using bullion wire. This technique can be used for a variety of crafts including wreath making, fabric flowers, gift wrapping and trim for all types of sewing projects.
Laura Dowling and Stichting Kunstboek
This tutorial is courtesy of Laura Dowling’s book Wreaths With How-to Tutorials.
Laura Dowling/Stichting Kunstboek
Ruched ribbon can be made from almost any size and type of ribbon (satin, burlap, etc.) and it can be reused multiple times. The base of this wreath is made from purple ruched ribbon, and then it was covered with turnips and purple cabbages, click here to see more.
Tools and Materials
- 1-1/2" to 3" ribbon
- bullion wire
- scissors
- wire cutters
Laura Dowling and Stichting Kunstboek
Holding the bullion wire in one hand, create a 1” loop with the other hand. Wrap the bullion wire tightly around the base of the loop as close to the base as possible.
Laura Dowling and Stichting Kunstboek
Wrap the wire around the loop, going around two or three times.
Laura Dowling and Stichting Kunstboek
Holding the loop with the ribbon extending behind it, make another loop as close to the original loop as possible. Wrap the bullion wire around the ribbon tightly to secure it. Continue making a garland of loops in this manner until you reach your desired length. Work evenly and precisely for best effect. If done correctly, the underside of the garland will resemble a textured pattern.
Laura Dowling and Stichting Kunstboek
Here we wrapped the ruched ribbon around a wreath form, securing it with bullion wire until it was completely covered.
