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Wholesale Textile Ribbons and Tapes – Types and Uses

An overview of textile ribbons and tapes for clothing, bags and packaging, direct from the manufacturer: satin, grosgrain, organza and herringbone. Compare the types and choose.

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Textile ribbons and tapes – how to choose the right type

Textile ribbons and tapes do two different jobs in a product. Some are functional – they reinforce seams, finish edges and serve as handles, straps and hanger loops. Others are decorative – bows, trims and accents on clothing and packaging. Often the same ribbon does both. This page is an overview of the main types of ribbon and tape that Polkom supplies wholesale and shows which type suits which use. For details on each type, go to the relevant category.

Main types of ribbon and tape

Satin ribbon

Smooth, soft, with an even sheen. Used for bows, decorative trims, lingerie, babywear and formalwear, hanger loops and luxury packaging. See satin ribbon.

Grosgrain ribbon

A matt ribbon with a fine crosswise rib, denser and more stable than satin. Suitable for trims, inside waistband facings, hats, bag handles and branded ribbons. See grosgrain ribbon.

Organza ribbon

Light, sheer, with a fine shimmer. Used mainly for decoration – gift wrapping, pouches, wedding decorations and fashion details. See organza ribbon.

Herringbone tape

A strong tape with a characteristic diagonal (zigzag) weave pattern, made of cotton, polyester or a blend. It reinforces shoulder seams, finishes edges and is used for apron ties and hanger loops. See herringbone tape.

Comparison by purpose

  • decorative bow with a sheen – satin or organza ribbon;
  • stable trim, inside waistband tape, hats – grosgrain ribbon;
  • reinforcing seams and edges, ties – herringbone tape;
  • sheer, light effect in packaging and decoration – organza;
  • branded ribbon with printed text – grosgrain or satin;
  • fastening – instead of a ribbon, choose hook and loop (Velcro).

Widths and materials

Most ribbons and tapes are produced in widths from 3 mm to 100 mm. Narrow widths (3–10 mm) are used for fine decoration, lingerie and labels; medium widths (10–25 mm) are the most popular in clothing; and wide ribbons (40–100 mm) serve for belts, handles and large bows. The main materials are polyester – strong and colourfast – and cotton, with a natural matt look. When you enquire, tell us how the product will be cared for so we can suggest a suitable composition.

Colours and custom ribbons

We stock ribbons in core and the most popular fashion colours, and on request we dye to Pantone or to a sample. We also make ribbons with a printed logo or lettering – a solution for brands, boutique packaging and promotional products. Minimum quantities depend on the article – send an enquiry.

Why order ribbons from Polkom

  • all the main types of ribbon and tape from one supplier;
  • stock in the most popular widths and colours;
  • Pantone dyeing and custom logo printing;
  • fast sampling;
  • delivery across the European Union;
  • advice on choosing a ribbon to suit the fabric and the product.

Wholesale ribbons from Polkom

As part of our haberdashery catalogue, ribbons can be ordered together with elastics, cords and lace. We offer stock availability, fast sampling and delivery across the EU. Write to us via the contact page with the type of ribbon, width, colour and quantity.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between satin and grosgrain ribbon?
Satin ribbon is smooth and glossy, soft to the touch and suited to decorative bows and fine garments. Grosgrain ribbon is matt, with crosswise ribs, denser and more stable, so it is used for trims, hats, handles and branded ribbons. Both are available in a wide range of widths and colours.
Which tape is best for reinforcing seams?
Herringbone tape is most often used to reinforce shoulder seams, edges and hanger loops – it is strong, does not stretch and is easy to sew. For visible trims with a more decorative look, you can also use grosgrain ribbon. Send us a description of the product and we will recommend an option.
Can the ribbon have a printed logo?
Yes. We make ribbons with a printed logo, brand name or message – most often on grosgrain and satin ribbon. They are used for packaging, hanger loops, decorative details and promotional products. Before the run you receive a sample to approve the colour and print placement, and minimum quantities depend on the article.
What widths are the ribbons available in?
Most types of ribbon are produced in widths from about 3 mm to 100 mm. In clothing, widths between 10 and 25 mm are the most popular; narrow widths are used for fine decoration and lingerie, and wide ones for belts, handles and large bows. We confirm non-standard widths on enquiry.
Haberdashery

Other types

Knitted Elastic Knitted Elastic Woven Elastic Woven Elastic Organza Ribbon Organza Ribbon Grosgrain Ribbon Grosgrain Ribbon Satin Ribbon Satin Ribbon Cords and Drawstrings Cords and Drawstrings Herringbone Tape Herringbone Tape Lace Lace Hook and Loop (Velcro) Hook and Loop (Velcro) Elastics Elastics
Custom offer

Looking for a specific model, colour or size?

Send us an inquiry with a description or photo – you will receive an offer, samples and a production lead time.

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