Used by crafters, sewers, and tailors alike, Grosgrain Ribbon is an elegant, versatile style of ribbon used for a variety of applications. To find quality ribbons for everything from crafts to tuxedo pants, shop Grosgrain Ribbon in a wide selection of colors and sizes at WAWAK.
WHAT IS GROSGRAIN RIBBON?
Grosgrain Ribbon (pronounced gro-grain) is a style of woven ribbon with a ribbed appearance and texture. Its tightly woven structure gives grosgrain more strength and structure than other styles of ribbon, making it more durable, more structured, and better at holding its shape. Even its name refers to its identifiable texture and structure: "grosgrain" comes from French, meaning "coarse grain." With its warp threads heavier than the weft thread, this ribbon's taffeta-weave structure gives it that signature ribbed appearance. Compared to satin ribbon, Grosgrain Ribbon is thicker, stronger, and has a more matte, textured look and feel.
What Is Grosgrain Ribbon Made Of?
Like many fabric types, the term "grosgrain" refers to the weave of the fabric rather than its contents, meaning grosgrain can be made from several different materials. Traditionally, it consisted of natural fiber materials like silk or wool, but today, you'll typically see grosgrain ribbons made of synthetic materials like polyester or rayon. At WAWAK, we offer 100% polyester grosgrain—the perfect choice for strength, versatility, and economy.
What Is Grosgrain Ribbon Used For?
Because of its durable structure and attractive appearance, Grosgrain Ribbon is a suitable choice for many projects. It's often used for decorative purposes in crafting, sewing, and home décor, but its uses don't end there! Let's check out some of the most common uses for Grosgrain Ribbon below:
QUICK TIP: GROSGRAIN RIBBON WILL FRAY AT THE ENDS WHEN CUT. BE SURE TO FINISH OFF YOUR ENDS WITH A ZIGZAG STITCH, FRAY CHECK, OR YOUR PREFERRED FINISHING METHOD TO PREVENT FRAYING.
Sewing & Tailoring
In sewing, Grosgrain Ribbon is primarily used as a decorative trim or facing. The ribbon can be sewn through directly, making it applicable for many trimming, facing, and binding applications. Use it to bind hems on items like skirts and dresses or add decorative trim or facing to sleeves, necklines, and hems. Grosgrain Ribbon is a great option for those looking for a trim with a more subtle, matte finish; it's often used on tuxedo trousers and other evening wear as an alternative to satin trims for those who prefer a more matte look. For tuxedo braid, we recommend using 7/8" Grosgrain Ribbon in black. Grosgrain Ribbon is also commonly used in millinery, or hat making, to create hat bands, bows, and sculptural decorative elements for hats and fascinators.
Crafting & Accessories
Since it tends to hold its shape well (and is easy to work with!), Grosgrain Ribbon is a common choice for crafting. It can be applied flat to a surface for items like scrapbooks and bookmarks, or shaped into three-dimensional items for decorative applications. One of the most popular usages for Grosgrain Ribbon is creating bows—hair bows, hat bows, gift wrapping, and other decorative elements easily hold their shape thanks to the grosgrain's structure. Thanks to its durability, Grosgrain Ribbon is even used in bookbinding to reinforce a book's spine. Use this ribbon to add a decorative bow, braid, or pop of color to projects like scrapbooks, greeting cards, wall hangings, gift wrapping, hair bows, and more.
Home Décor
Similar to its uses in garment sewing, Grosgrain Ribbon can be used in home décor as a trim, facing, or decorative item. Trim or bind items like placemats, table runners, curtains, or pillows with the color of your choice, or create items like drapery ties and silverware bands for the perfect finishing touch. Some sewers even use this style of ribbon as a trim for upholstered furniture, or in the creation of decorative lampshades.
Now you know all about Grosgrain Ribbon! Whether you have a specific project in mind or are just thinking of new ways to use this handy sewing notion, you can shop for Grosgrain Ribbon at WAWAK to find the perfect fit for your creations. Let's sew!
