how to: decorative ribbon handles
I used a ribbon handle with a little decorative end on it in yesterday’s tutorial.
This is an easy technique - but it looks more complicated when it’s sewn onto something :-)
This project works best with a grosgrain ribbon, or a ribbon that’s not too soft. Basically all you’re doing is tying a knot in the ribbon, but keeping it flat so it tightens into a decorative button.
Just tie a regular knot at the end of the ribbon, giving yourself a little extra ribbon to work with. Don’t twist the ribbon - it’s got to be smooth through the entire knot in order for it to work.
Here’s what the loose knot should look like:
Now gently pull the knot tighter. Pull it tight enough so there are no gaps where the ribbon touches itself, but it’s not puckered or gathered - like this:
Trim the end of the ribbon, leaving a short tail. I’m leaving a 3/4″ tail with this 1″ ribbon.
Fold the tail underneath the knot and press it gently with an iron. Repeat on the other end to make another ribbon knot.
Here’s the finished knot handle on the mini bag:
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3 opinions for how to: decorative ribbon handles
Noreen Crone-Findlay
Oct 13, 2007 at 9:39 pm
THat’s lovely, Chloe! Love the bag!
Lotta
Nov 12, 2007 at 1:44 pm
That is just SOOOO neat! Thanks for sharing! I can imagine many uses for this, not only for handles. E.g. you could make really pretty and practical step-in harnesses for toy dogs by using thick grosgrain ribbon (double if needed) and a piece of solid/strong fabric (for a slightly X-shaped chest piece). Mesh, with a pretty binding around the edge, is really nice for the chest piece on such harnesses. But the fastening of the ribbon (sewn onto webbing if needed for enough strength) onto the chest piece is a difficult part - it may cause it to not look very nice, as you just can’t hide it. But using this technique, it may become a neat detail instead. Really great if you want the harness to look elegant and nice, but also simple (not having to use applique’s to hide the ends). Really great, the next one I make, will be with these neat ends! Thanks!!! :)
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