Manufacturer · Fashion Accessories
Double-face satin ribbon is glossy and smooth on both sides, while single-face ribbon has a glossy face and a matt back. Double-face is chosen when both sides are visible – on tied bows, ties, straps and loose hanging ends. If the ribbon is sewn flat to the product and its back is not visible, single-face is enough and usually more economical.
How double-face satin ribbon is made
Satin is a weave in which the warp threads pass over several weft threads at a time. This leaves long, parallel stretches of thread on the surface that reflect light and give the characteristic sheen. With single-face ribbon this effect is achieved on one side only. Double-face ribbon is woven with a double satin weave – effectively two satin faces joined in one fabric – so it is denser, heavier and has a softer drape.
How to tell double-face from single-face satin ribbon
- Back – turn the ribbon over. If the back is matt with a visible mesh structure, the ribbon is single-face.
- Density – at the same width, double-face is noticeably denser and less translucent against the light.
- Drape – double-face falls more softly and heavily, while single-face folds more easily and sharply.
- Designation – in catalogues it appears as double face (DF), and single-face as single face (SF).
Double-face or single-face satin ribbon – comparison
| Criterion | Single-face | Double-face |
|---|---|---|
| Glossy side | face only | both |
| Density and weight | lighter | denser and heavier |
| Tied bows | the back shows in the loops | looks the same from every angle |
| Sewn-on trims and bindings | perfectly adequate | unnecessarily expensive |
| Logo printing | a good base | a good base, printing on both sides possible |
| Price | lower | higher because of more material |
When double-face ribbon is a must
- Tied bows and rosettes – the reverse side inevitably shows in the loops and ends.
- Ties on lingerie, nightdresses and babywear – the ribbon hangs loose and turns with movement.
- Ribbon straps and shoulder straps – both sides touch the skin and are on show.
- Hair and head bands – double-face satin glides more softly and creases hair less.
- Luxury packaging – when the box is opened, the customer sees the whole ribbon.
- Visible hanging loops – for example in coats, jackets and women's blouses.
When single-face is the better choice
- trims and decorative stripes sewn along their entire length;
- seam binding and inside edges, where the back lies against the fabric;
- packaging where the ribbon is glued or fixed flat to the box;
- large series, where the difference in price per metre matters for unit cost.
A practical rule: if after sewing or gluing the back of the ribbon cannot be seen, there is no point paying for double-face. If there is a loose end, a loop or a knot – choose double-face.
Widths and narrow double-face satin ribbon
Double-face satin is available from very narrow widths of a few millimetres up to wide decorative ribbons. With narrow ribbons of 3 to 10 mm the difference between the two sides is most noticeable, because they are almost always tied. If you are looking for a narrow satin ribbon for lingerie or cards, check that it is double-face – otherwise the small bows will show a matt back.
Care and washing
Most satin ribbons are polyester. Double-face withstands washing like other polyester ribbons, but because of its greater density it dries a little more slowly. Wash at a low temperature without wringing, and iron on the reverse on a low setting – satin can change its sheen at high temperatures. On products that will be washed often, finish the ribbon ends so they do not fray.
Alternatives to satin ribbon
If you need a more structured ribbon that holds its shape, look at grosgrain ribbon with its transverse ribbed weave. For sheer, airy effects there is organza, and the full choice is in our ribbons and tapes section. Double-face satin and grosgrain are often combined in one bow for a contrast between smooth and ribbed textures.
What to state in an inquiry for double-face satin ribbon
To get an accurate quote and a sample that suits the product, prepare the following information:
- type – double-face or single-face; if you are unsure, describe where the ribbon will be used;
- width in millimetres – measure an existing sample or state the desired bow size;
- colour – a Pantone number or a physical sample of the fabric the ribbon must match;
- quantity – total metres, or number of products and consumption per product;
- printing – if a logo is needed, attach a vector file and state the print colour;
- delivery – on rolls or cut into pieces of a set length.
The surest way to avoid disappointment is to compare the two ribbons in person. Ask for samples of both types in the same width and colour, tie a bow with them or sew a piece onto the product and judge which looks better. This way the decision is based on the real look rather than a catalogue description, and the price difference is weighed against the effect.
Double-face and single-face satin ribbon from Polkom
Polkom is a manufacturer and wholesaler of garment accessories and haberdashery based in Sofia. We offer single-face and double-face satin ribbon in various widths and colours, with the option of logo printing and custom colour matching. We deliver throughout the EU. Minimum quantities depend on the article – send an inquiry for samples and a quote via our contact page.
