Robin Laub, a Life Stylist

Ribbons Galore

It’s the month of love and Valentine’s Day is rigggghhhtttt around the corner. Have the perfect gift yet? If not, I can help — Just Ask! Once you’ve got it all wrapped up, how about the perfect ribbon? I was asked to write a post about how to tie a ribbon in a fun and fashionable way. So, you asked, I listened. :) Here it is…

 

The first thing you need to do is find quality ribbon. 

I keep a bin of all types of ribbon from the width sizes of the ribbon, to ribbons that curl easily, to ribbons with wire (my absolute fave!) to ribbons that have a multitude of textures with varying shades of colors. To me a bin of ribbons is like going into my favorite candy jar. I love ribbons and a gift should be perfectly wrapped even if it’s only with one single ribbon. It’s the type of ribbon that you choose is what counts!

 

Wired ribbon is my absolute “go-to”  ribbon to work with. 

It’s simple to tie a bow with the wired edges helping to maintain the shape of the bow. Manipulate the bow by crinkling it and bending the ends. It’s so fun to work with and versatile, too. I always have a wide variety of colors and patterns of wired ribbon and it continues to be my favorite ribbon to use. All you do is cut a piece of ribbon determining the size of the box or vase to make a nice-size, simple bow. I advise my clients to remember how they taught their kids or young ones on how to tie their shoes: Make two loops with the ribbon, fold one loop over the other and bring it around and through the hole pulling it tightly to make a knot. Come on guys, you can do this! Ha! Side note: burlap ribbon is also an option for that perfect vintage rustic charm. 

 

Curling ribbon is fun and whimsical to use, too! 

Make sure you have sharp scissors on hand to zip the curl out of the ribbon. I like mixing and matching wired ribbon with curly-cue ribbons in many of colors. It’s fun and fashionable and your gift will be loved even before the wrapping or bows come off! Trust me it’s true. It’s so important to wrap a gift with grace because you took the time and effort to find that special gift, right? Then why not finish the end result looking iridescent and gorgeous? Using good scissors also helps to curl and cut the ends of the ribbon on a diagonal for a finished, clean look.

 

Customize a satin ribbon with your company logo.

Tie it on to a bottle of wine or champagne. “R” you ready to dazzle your clients? It’s easy to do. Just snip off a piece of ribbon that’s 12” long and tie it around the neck of the bottle into a knot. Very classy. Need help getting customized ribbon? Just Ask! 

 

Don’t forget about raffia.

The last type of ribbon I’d like to recommend is one I couldn’t do without — raffia. This type of ribbon can add allure to your final wrapping job. A bow is typically not the ideal way to use raffia, but it adds a beautiful accent.

 

Ready to try and make a beautiful bow? If it’s still too daunting of a task, Just Ask your favorite life stylist (that’s me! Ha!) to help or watch this video.

 

Tie one on!