Manufacturer · Fashion & Home Accessories
Sewing ribbons and tapes are narrow textiles with finished edges, used for binding, seam reinforcement, ties, handles and decoration. The main types are satin, grosgrain, organza, herringbone, bias, velvet and jacquard ribbon. The choice depends on whether the ribbon will carry a load, be visible or be in contact with the skin.
What sewing ribbons and tapes are
Unlike fabric, which has to be cut, a ribbon comes with a fixed width and finished edges – woven, knitted or sealed. This saves operations in the sewing room: there is no need to hem, bind or overlock. In clothing, ribbons and tapes do two groups of jobs – functional (stabilising, shaping, finishing edges) and decorative (bows, contrast binding, accents). Many of them combine both – for example, grosgrain binding both reinforces the edge of a jacket and emphasises its silhouette, while a satin ribbon on a baby bodysuit serves both as a tie and as decoration.
You can browse the full range in the ribbons and tapes category; here we compare the main types by properties and use.
Main types of sewing ribbons and tapes
Satin ribbon
Smooth and glossy on one or both sides (single-face and double-face satin). It is soft, drapes beautifully and is preferred for bows, lingerie, formal wear and babywear. Weakness – it snags more easily and frays when cut if the end is not sealed. Details in satin ribbon.
Grosgrain ribbon
Matte, with distinct crosswise ribs. Denser and more stable, it keeps its shape and does not slip. It is used for inside waistbands, hats, jacket binding and branded ribbons. See grosgrain ribbon.
Organza
Light, semi-transparent, with a fine sheen. Almost entirely decorative – packaging, pouches, wedding decoration. It is not suitable where the ribbon is under tension or subject to friction.
Herringbone tape
Woven with a diagonal zigzag pattern, strong and with minimal stretch. A classic choice for reinforcing shoulder seams, apron ties, hanger loops and binding on workwear.
Bias binding
A tape cut on the bias of the fabric (at 45°), which allows it to bend around curved edges – necklines, armholes, bag edges. It is often available pre-folded.
Velvet ribbon
With a soft plush face and a rich matte colour. It is used for decorative details in autumn-winter collections, hair ribbons and luxury packaging.
Jacquard ribbon
Woven with a motif, text or ornament integrated directly into the structure. It is suitable for decorative trims, bag straps and logo branding.
Comparison of sewing ribbons and tapes
| Type of ribbon | Surface | Stability | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Satin | smooth, glossy | medium | bows, lingerie, formal wear |
| Grosgrain | matte, ribbed | high | waistbands, hats, binding, logo |
| Organza | sheer, light | low | packaging, decoration |
| Herringbone | matte, diagonal pattern | high | seam reinforcement, ties |
| Bias | depends on the fabric | bends around curves | binding of necklines and sleeves |
| Velvet | plush | medium | decoration, hair accessories |
| Jacquard | with a woven motif | high | decorative trims, branding |
How to choose a sewing ribbon
Before choosing a type, answer a few practical questions. They narrow the choice quickly and protect you from unpleasant surprises after the first wash.
- Does the ribbon carry a load? For ties, handles and reinforcement, choose a dense woven tape – herringbone or grosgrain. Satin and organza are for decoration.
- Will it bend around a curved edge? If so, you need bias binding. A straight tape around a neckline will form pleats.
- Will it be visible? Visible ribbons are matched to the fabric by colour and sheen; hidden (inside) ones by strength and softness.
- What care does the garment need? Polyester ribbons withstand washing better and do not shrink; cotton ones have a natural look but can shrink. Check compatibility with the care label.
- What kind of edge does it have? Woven edges are the most durable. Ribbons cut from a wider weave with a sealed edge are cheaper but more delicate.
Materials: polyester, cotton, viscose
Polyester is the most widely used material for ribbons – strong, colourfast, it does not shrink or crease. Cotton gives a matte, natural look and is preferred for linen and cotton collections, but it is a good idea to test-wash the garment before fixing the length. Viscose and blended ribbons have a softer drape and a discreet sheen. For items that are ironed often, check the temperature the ribbon can withstand – synthetic materials do not like a hot iron.
Common mistakes when choosing
- Satin ribbon as an apron tie or handle – it wears and frays quickly.
- Straight tape for neckline binding instead of bias – the edge does not lie flat.
- Colour chosen from a photo on a screen rather than from a physical sample.
- Untested shrinkage of cotton tape on polyester fabric – after washing, the binding puckers.
- Underestimating the quantity: in serial sewing, calculate the consumption per garment plus a reserve for machine set-up.
If the ribbon is part of the closure of the garment, consider whether it would be better to combine it with cords or hook and loop (Velcro).
Sewing ribbons and tapes from Polkom
Polkom is a Bulgarian manufacturer of accessories for fashion, furniture, footwear and bags, with over 30 years of experience. We deliver sewing ribbons and tapes to clothing manufacturers, ateliers and retailers across the EU – in standard colours or matched to your collection, including ribbons with a logo. Send us the type of garment, width, colour and approximate quantity via the contact page and we will suggest a suitable ribbon and a sample.
