Ribbon is probably one of the most inexpensive embellishments to use in scrapbooking. It is also fun to use and easy to find. Photo safe ribbon can be found in most scrapbook stores. Many companies have come out with ribbons which match their line’s patterned paper. There are ribbons in solid colors, polka dotted, striped, gingham, and many other patterns. Making Memories sells coordinating ribbons in different colors (ie. Celery, pink, etc.). Jo Anne’s fabric carries numerous colors and textures of ribbon. If there is concern about the effect this ribbon will have on your pictures you can test the ribbon with special pens which check the acidity of products. Another option is to keep the ribbon on areas of the layout that are away from your photos.

using bows down the side of a layout

Ribbon can be attached to your page by using adhesive dots. Glue sticks and ribbon are usually not a good mix. If you stretch a ribbon across a page it helps to tape the excess ribbon to the back of the cardstock. Loop ribbon through eyelets for a clean, classy look. Some companies have just released special brads and eyelets with loops especially made for stringing ribbon through. Another fun way to attach ribbon is by folding it in half and stapling to a layout, card or tag.

embellish tags, pictures and monograms with ribbon

Use ribbon alone to create pages that are fun, interesting and unique. Ribbon can be used almost like patterned paper. Take neutral colored cardstock and use different colored ribbon across the page for a beautiful background. Stitch on your layout with ribbon. Drape a ribbon across the length of a page to divide two different colors of cardstock or patterned paper. Create color blocking by dividing each section with ribbon. Tie small bows (or knots for a more masculine look) and place them down the side of a page. Shape ribbon into letters for a fun title. Make your title stand out even more by using different colors and patterns or ribbon. Design a one of a kind embellishment by forming a heart or flower with ribbon. Wrap ribbon around letters in your title to add interest and color. Wrap strips of patterned paper with ribbon before attaching each strip to your cardstock.

hang charms and wrap pictures with ribbon

Bring more focus to pictures by using ribbon. Draw the eye to a special photo by framing it with ribbon. Use a large ribbon as photo corners. Matte your photo onto cardstock then wraps with ribbon and tie with a bow. Hang a small photo like a picture with ribbon.

ribbon charm from making memories

Ribbon can make other embellishments look even better. Wrap slide mounts, small picture frames and bookplates with ribbon. Hang charms on your layout with ribbon. Make beautiful tags with several different ribbons looped through the hole of the tag. Close small envelopes with ribbon. Tie a bow or knot through the holes of photo turns and adhere with adhesive dots instead of brads. Ribbon charms are made especially for ribbon by many companies. Making Memories carries different shapes, sizes and colors of ribbon charms.

ribbon as photo corners

Scrapbook stores carry ribbon with words and phrases on them (ie. Baby, happy birthday, etc.) Twill tape is very similar to ribbon and just as fun to work with. Probably the newest trend is using Ric Rac. Many stores and companies carry it, some is self adhesive.

Using ribbon is probably the least expensive, least intimidating way to embellish a layout. It is also one of the most fun and addictive.