8 Types Of Ribbon For Wreaths And Crafts

Choosing among the many types of ribbon can be confusing because ribbon names may describe the material, texture, weave, finish or edge construction. A ribbon can be polyester and canvas-like, for example, while also having wired edges and a printed pattern.

The best ribbon depends on how you want it to look and behave. Structured ribbon works well for shaped wreath bows and loops, while softer ribbon is useful for draped tails, gift wrapping and flat accents.

Quick Answer: Eight common types of ribbon are canvas, satin, grosgrain, organza, velvet, burlap, linen-look and polyester decorative ribbon. For wreaths and large bows, choose ribbon with enough body to remain visible and hold its shape. Wired canvas or polyester ribbon is often a practical choice, while satin, organza and other softer ribbons work well for layering and decorative details.

Types Of Ribbon: Quick Comparison

Ribbon Type	Appearance	Common Uses
Canvas	Woven, substantial and structured	Wreaths, bows and decorative tails
Satin	Smooth with a noticeable sheen	Gifts, floral arrangements and elegant accents
Grosgrain	Ribbed and moderately firm	Small bows, trim and layered accents
Organza	Sheer, lightweight and airy	Layering, floral work and delicate bows
Velvet	Soft, plush and dimensional	Holiday décor and premium accents
Burlap	Rustic with a coarse texture	Farmhouse, fall and natural designs
Linen-look	Woven with a softer natural appearance	Seasonal, farmhouse and everyday décor
Polyester decorative ribbon	Available in many printed and solid finishes	Wreaths, crafts, gifts and themed designs

These descriptions are general. The width, weave, edge construction and manufacturer can change how an individual ribbon feels and performs.

Ribbon Material Versus Wired Edge

Ribbon type and ribbon edge are not the same thing.

Canvas, satin, organza and other ribbon types may be available with or without wire. The wire is normally enclosed along the outer edges and helps the ribbon retain curves, loops and shaped tails.

Read wired and non-wired ribbon for a complete comparison of these two constructions.

When shopping for a wreath project, check both:

1. The ribbon material or finish
2. Whether it has wired edges

A beautiful soft ribbon may not hold a large wreath bow unless it is supported by a wider wired ribbon.

1. Canvas Ribbon

Canvas ribbon has a visible woven texture and generally feels more substantial than very soft ribbon.

It is commonly used for:

• Wreath bows
• Ribbon tails
• Layered loops
• Seasonal decorations
• Sports wreaths
• Signs and garlands
• Christmas tree bows
• Gift baskets

Canvas ribbon is often available with wired edges, making it easier to curve and fluff.

Printed canvas ribbon can carry detailed patterns, words, sports designs and seasonal images. Solid canvas ribbon can balance those patterns and prevent the bow from looking too busy.

Choose Canvas Ribbon When:

• The ribbon needs to stand above deco mesh or greenery.
• You are making a large bow.
• The design needs visible texture.
• You want substantial tails or loops.
• The wreath will contain several layered ribbons.

Canvas ribbon can feel heavier than organza or satin, so avoid placing too many thick layers in a small bow.

2. Satin Ribbon

Satin ribbon has a smooth surface and noticeable sheen. It may be glossy on one side or both sides.

Satin is often used for:

• Gift wrapping
• Floral arrangements
• Wedding and event décor
• Elegant bows
• Ornament hangers
• Soft tails
• Layered accents

Unwired satin usually falls naturally instead of holding a sculpted curve. Wired satin can provide more structure while maintaining its smooth appearance.

Choose Satin Ribbon When:

• You want a polished or elegant finish.
• The ribbon will drape rather than stand upright.
• You need a smooth contrast beside textured ribbon.
• The project includes formal or celebration décor.
• You are decorating gifts or floral arrangements.

Satin can show creases, so store it loosely and avoid crushing it beneath heavier supplies.

3. Grosgrain Ribbon

Grosgrain ribbon has a ribbed surface created by raised horizontal lines.

Its texture can make it feel firmer than a smooth ribbon of similar width.

Common uses include:

• Small bows
• Narrow wreath accents
• Gift wrapping
• Ornament hangers
• Signs and banners
• Hair accessories
• Cards and paper crafts
• Team-color details

Much of the narrow sports ribbon available for decorative projects has a grosgrain-style texture.

Choose Grosgrain Ribbon When:

• You need a narrow team or school pattern.
• The ribbon will be used in a small bow.
• You want a durable-feeling flat accent.
• A ribbed texture complements smoother ribbon.
• The ribbon will be layered over a wider wired ribbon.

Unwired grosgrain may hold a small knot or bow but normally will not provide the same structure as wide wired wreath ribbon.

4. Organza Ribbon

Organza ribbon is lightweight and sheer, allowing other colors and materials to show through it.

It can add softness without creating a heavy layer.

Organza works well for:

• Floral arrangements
• Gift wrapping
• Wedding décor
• Layered bows
• Delicate accents
• Ornaments
• Party decorations
• Spring and summer projects

Wired organza can be shaped into loops, while unwired organza creates a softer drape.

Choose Organza Ribbon When:

• You want an airy, lightweight appearance.
• The design needs another layer without much bulk.
• You want a color to remain partially transparent.
• The wreath includes floral or spring elements.
• A soft contrast is needed beside canvas or burlap.

Because organza is sheer, it may disappear against a similarly colored wreath base. Place it beside a contrasting ribbon or background.

5. Velvet Ribbon

Velvet ribbon has a plush surface that adds depth and a soft appearance.

It is often associated with:

• Christmas décor
• Winter wreaths
• Formal decorations
• Premium gift wrapping
• Traditional bows
• Elegant floral arrangements
• Vintage-inspired designs

Velvet may be wired or non-wired. Wired velvet is generally easier to shape into wreath bows, while soft velvet creates flowing tails.

Choose Velvet Ribbon When:

• You want a rich seasonal texture.
• The design uses traditional holiday colors.
• A premium or formal look is desired.
• The ribbon will be used as a featured accent.
• You want contrast beside metallic or smooth materials.

Velvet can look visually heavy, so a small amount may be enough in a layered bow.

6. Burlap Ribbon

Burlap ribbon has a coarse, open texture and a natural or rustic appearance.

Traditional burlap is commonly associated with natural brown, but decorative versions are available in many colors and patterns.

It works well for:

• Farmhouse wreaths
• Fall designs
• Rustic Christmas décor
• Grapevine wreaths
• Natural floral arrangements
• Everyday door décor
• Bows and garlands

Wired burlap ribbon is easier to shape than soft burlap strips.

Choose Burlap Ribbon When:

• The wreath has a rustic or farmhouse theme.
• You are working with grapevine or greenery.
• The design includes wood signs or natural colors.
• You want a noticeably textured ribbon.
• The wreath needs a neutral foundation.

Some burlap edges may shed or fray. Handle the ribbon carefully and use sharp scissors.

7. Linen And Linen-Look Ribbon

Linen and linen-look ribbon have a woven appearance that can feel softer and more refined than coarse burlap.

Some decorative ribbon described as linen-look may be made from a blend or synthetic material designed to imitate natural linen.

It works well for:

• Everyday wreaths
• Floral wreaths
• Farmhouse décor
• Spring and summer projects
• Neutral bows
• Wedding and event décor
• Seasonal signs and garlands

Choose Linen-Look Ribbon When:

• You want a natural appearance without coarse burlap texture.
• The design uses soft or muted colors.
• You are combining ribbon with flowers or greenery.
• A woven texture is needed in an everyday wreath.
• You want a neutral ribbon that supports patterned accents.

Check the product description rather than assuming every linen-look ribbon contains natural linen fibers.

8. Polyester Decorative Ribbon

Polyester is used in many decorative ribbons because it can be manufactured in numerous colors, patterns, textures and finishes.

A polyester ribbon may appear:

• Canvas-like
• Satin-like
• Sheer
• Metallic
• Printed
• Solid
• Striped
• Plaid
• Wired or non-wired

This category includes many ribbons designed for seasonal and themed craft projects.

Choose Polyester Decorative Ribbon When:

• You want a specific printed pattern.
• The wreath requires sports or team colors.
• You need coordinating solids and designs.
• You are making bows, tails or layered bundles.
• The project requires several widths.

Browse wreath ribbon to compare colors, patterns, widths and wired or unwired options.

What Ribbon Is Best For Wreath Making?

For most full wreath bows and shaped tails, choose wired ribbon with enough body to remain visible above the wreath base.

A useful combination is:

• One 2.5″ featured ribbon
• One 2.5″ solid or simple pattern
• One 1.5″ accent ribbon
• One optional narrow detail

Canvas-style or substantial polyester ribbon often works well for the wider layers. Satin, organza, grosgrain or velvet can be added when their texture supports the design.

Coordinated ribbon bundles can simplify the process of selecting patterns that work together.

How Ribbon Width Changes The Design

2.5″ Ribbon

Use wider ribbon for:

• Main bow loops
• Large tails
• Featured patterns
• Full-size wreaths
• Strong areas of color

1.5″ Ribbon

Use 1.5″ ribbon for:

• Layered loops
• Secondary patterns
• Ribbon bundles
• Smaller bows
• Supporting colors

Narrow Ribbon

Use narrow ribbon for:

• Team patterns
• Small knots
• Gift tags
• Ornament hangers
• Flat accents
• Layering over wider ribbon

Read how much ribbon you need for a wreath before cutting several rolls.

How To Combine Different Ribbon Types

You can mix materials and textures in the same design.

Try combining:

• Canvas with satin
• Burlap with linen-look ribbon
• Velvet with metallic ribbon
• Organza over a solid wired ribbon
• Grosgrain over wider canvas ribbon
• Printed polyester with coordinating solids

Use one or two featured patterns and allow the other ribbon to provide color and texture.

A layered bow does not need every ribbon to have the same finish. Contrast can make each layer easier to see.

Follow how to make a bow for a sports wreath when you are ready to form the loops, secure the center and arrange the tails.

Choosing Ribbon For A Sports Wreath

Begin with the sign or team colors.

Select:

1. One featured sports or team pattern
2. One solid primary color
3. One secondary team color
4. One optional neutral or metallic accent

When making a wreath for a favorite team, use white, black, silver or gold when the primary colors need separation.

Browse sports wreath supplies for coordinated ribbon, signs, mesh and accents.

Common Ribbon Selection Mistakes

Choosing Only By Color

Ribbons may match in color but differ greatly in texture, weight and structure.

Using Too Many Featured Patterns

Allow one or two patterns to lead the design and support them with simpler ribbon.

Ignoring Edge Construction

A soft unwired ribbon may not hold the large loops shown in a wired-ribbon bow.

Cutting Every Roll Before Testing

Create and attach one ribbon bundle first. Adjust the length before cutting the remaining pieces.

Forgetting The Reverse Side

Some ribbon is printed on only one side. Arrange or twist it so the decorative side remains visible.

Buying Ribbon Without A Project Plan

Choose the sign, colors and approximate bow style before purchasing several unrelated rolls.

Final Thoughts

The many types of ribbon differ in texture, sheen, weight and structure.

Canvas ribbon provides body, satin adds smooth shine, grosgrain offers ribbed texture, organza creates a sheer layer, velvet adds plush depth, burlap supports rustic designs, linen-look ribbon provides a softer natural appearance and polyester decorative ribbon offers a wide range of patterns.

Choose the ribbon according to the project rather than the name alone. Check the material, width, texture, pattern and wired edge before deciding how it will be used.

Types Of Ribbon FAQs