Manufacturer · Fashion & Home Accessories
Satin ribbon by the metre is one of the most widely used materials in garment production, haberdashery and decoration. Its smooth, glossy surface instantly gives a finished, elegant look – whether on the edges of a dress, the straps of lingerie, the wrapping of a gift or wedding decorations. In this article we look at how satin ribbon is made, which types and widths exist, what it is used for and how to choose the right one for your product.
What satin ribbon is
Satin is not a raw material but a way of weaving. In a satin weave, the warp threads pass over several weft threads at once, leaving long “floating” stretches on the surface. These reflect the light and create the characteristic sheen and smoothness. Satin ribbons are most often woven from polyester, which is strong, keeps its colour and does not crease easily. Ribbons made of polyamide, viscose and natural silk are also available.
The edges of the ribbon are usually woven (a closed selvedge), which prevents fraying along its length. On some cheap ribbons the edge is cut and heat-sealed – such ribbons are suitable for decoration but less so for clothing.
Single-face and double-face satin
Single-face satin ribbon
It is shiny on one side only, while the other is matte. It is used where only the face is visible – piping, appliqués, sewn-on ribbons, labels.
Double-face satin ribbon
Both sides are equally glossy. It is preferred for bows, ties, straps and all applications where the ribbon turns over or is tied. Double-face ribbon is denser and has a more luxurious feel.
Widths from 1 to 10 cm
Satin ribbons are available in a wide range of widths. Typical uses by width:
- 1–2 cm – thin straps, ties, piping, small bows, hanger loops;
- 3–4 cm – dress sashes, blanket bindings, decorative bands on sleeves and skirts;
- 5–6 cm – wide bows, packaging, decorative roses, wedding decorations;
- 7–10 cm – wide belts, bindings on home textiles, draping and large decorations.
Intermediate widths can also be made on request. Choose a width that is in proportion to the product – a thin ribbon gets lost on a large surface, while one that is too wide weighs down a delicate garment.
Colours
Satin ribbons are produced in an exceptionally rich palette: classic white, black, ivory and ecru; red, burgundy, pink and powder pink; blue, navy and turquoise; green, yellow, orange, purple; pastel tones; metallic gold and silver shades. Popular colours are usually in stock, and specific shades can be matched to Pantone or to a fabric sample.
When choosing a colour, bear in mind that the sheen of satin makes the tone look slightly lighter and more saturated than on a matte fabric. So it is best to compare the colour directly with the fabric.
Where satin ribbons are used
In clothing
- edging on lapels, pockets, sleeves and necklines;
- straps on dresses, lingerie and nightdresses;
- sashes and bows on dresses;
- side stripes on the legs of dinner suits and evening trousers;
- children’s and baby clothing, hat ties;
- hanger loops inside the garment.
In accessories
- hair ribbons, headbands and hair clips;
- handles and decoration for paper bags;
- bindings on bags and cases.
In decoration and packaging
- gift wrapping and boxes;
- ribbon roses and flowers;
- wedding, christening and festive decorations;
- home textiles – bindings on duvets, tablecloths and curtains.
Satin ribbon or another type of ribbon
Satin is not the only choice. Depending on the effect you want, another ribbon may be more suitable:
- Grosgrain ribbon – with a crosswise ribbed texture, denser and matte; a classic for hat bands, bindings and hanger loops.
- Organza ribbon – sheer and light, suitable for delicate decorations and packaging.
- Velvet ribbon – with a soft pile and luxurious feel, for winter collections and decorations.
Several types are often combined in one package or product – for example satin and organza in a bow.
How to choose a good-quality satin ribbon
- Density – a good ribbon is densely woven and not see-through.
- Edge – a woven edge guarantees that the ribbon will not fray.
- Colour fastness – especially important for ribbons sewn onto garments that are washed.
- Even sheen – the surface should be uniform, without matte patches.
- Softness – for garments in contact with the skin, choose a softer, double-face ribbon.
Tips for sewing on satin ribbon
Satin is a slippery material and needs a little more care when sewing. A few tips help to achieve a clean, professional result:
- use a thin, sharp needle (size 60–70), so that no visible holes are left and no threads are pulled;
- choose a thread that matches the ribbon and slightly reduce the upper thread tension;
- hold the ribbon in place with clips instead of pins, because pins can leave marks;
- sew slowly and at an even speed so that the ribbon does not pucker;
- for bindings along curved lines, choose a narrower ribbon or shape it in advance with steam;
- for side stripes and long straight ribbons, consider a thin double-sided adhesive tape that holds the satin in place while sewing.
Before series production it is useful to make a sample with the real fabric, thread and machine – that way you will see whether the ribbon puckers, whether the seam looks even and how the product stands up to washing.
Caring for satin ribbons
Polyester satin ribbons can be washed at moderate temperatures. Iron them on a low setting, preferably on the reverse side or through a cloth, so that no excessive shine or marks appear. Cut the ends at an angle or seal them with heat so that they do not fray.
Wholesale satin ribbons from Polkom
Polkom is a Bulgarian company from Sofia with over 30 years of experience as a manufacturer of haberdashery and accessories for fashion, furniture, footwear and bags. In the satin ribbon category you will find ribbons in widths from 1 to 10 cm and a wide range of colours, and large stocks allow fast dispatch. Take a look at the other ribbons and tapes in our range too.
We deliver throughout the European Union. Minimum quantities depend on the item – send an inquiry to info@polkom.com or call +359 876 76 60 50.
