Applications: crazy quilting (hand and machine), crewel, cross stitch/counted thread, doll making (hand and machine), fly fishing, kids' crafts, machine embroidery/bobbin work, machine embroidery/couching, needlepoint/canvas work, plastic canvas, ribbon embroidery, stumpwork, weaving.
Hand Embroidery
Kreinik 1/16" and 1/8" Ribbon create a beautiful frosted look in ribbon embroidery. They also create a flat texture and delicate shimmery effect in samplers. This texture makes them ideal for needlepoint, canvas work, and plastic canvas as well. In addition, you can couch 1/16" and 1/8" Ribbons on any fabric for surface embellishment with a corresponding color of Kreinik Cord or Blending Filament. Use the corded ribbons couched with a corresponding color of Kreinik Cord to create the appearance of elegant gold work.
Machine Embroidery
Whether you are creating an art quilt, wearable art, bridal items, home decor, embroidered accessories, or other creations on a sewing machine, Kreinik Ribbons offer colorful, textured embellishment options. The ribbons can easily be couched with a corresponding color of Kreinik Cord or a clear thread in the needle. (Or use a contrasting color in the needle for interesting effects.) This is an easy embellishment technique that lends refined elegance to traditional designs (choose the muted and corded colors) and sensory excitement to artistic extravagances (let color be your guide). To keep the threads in position, use a braiding foot, multi-cord foot, or similar foot available for your machine. Stitch slowly to keep the ribbons flat as you couch. Experiment with zig-zag or other decorative stitches to create interesting effects.
With a few adjustments to tension and thread set-ups, you can also use 1/16" Ribbon in the bobbin of a machine. Try straight stitch designs on a scrap of fabric to experiment with the technique.
For the ultimate in beauty and texture, use the Kreinik Ribbons to create ribbon embroidery by machine. The soft pearl and pale pastel colors are ideal for bridal accessories. Use an embroidery hoop and remove the foot; refer to the many books on the market that talk about ribbon embroidery by machine, and substitute Kreinik Ribbons for silk ribbons.
Care
Kreinik Ribbons are hand or machine washable and dry cleanable. Cool water is recommended. Do not use bleach. They can also be tumble-dried on low setting. When ironing a finished piece containing Kreinik metallic ribbons, do not iron directly on the thread; use a cloth, and do not use steam.
Tips on using Kreinik Ribbon in hand work:
The 1/16" Ribbon comes on a snap-spool mechanism. Both sides of the spool open; look for the side where the thread end is located. Insert your thumbnail under the cap, and rotate the spool while gently lifting the cap to release the thread (the cap should not pop off). Snap the lid shut to secure the unused portion.
The 1/8" Ribbon has a lock-flange mechanism: the thread 'locks' in the groove around the top of the spool. Simply pull the thread to release. Wrap the thread in the groove to secure the unused portion.
Use short lengths of ribbon-about 45cm (18 inches) or less-for greater control (less knotting!) and to avoid excessive abrasion on the thread from repeated passes through the ground fabric or canvas.
Use a needle large enough to 'open' the hole in the fabric sufficiently and allow the ribbon to go through more easily.
Threading Technique for Ribbon
For a quick-and-easy, take-anywhere threading technique, cut a small strip of paper and fold in half. Place the fold through the eye of the needle and open the two ends to insert the thread in between. Gently pull the paper through so the thread is brought with it.
The way a needle is twisted during stitching, combined with the twist of the thread, can cause any thread to twist on itself. Stitch slowly for greater control, and let your needle hang frequently to let the thread untwist. You may also wish to moisten the ribbon with a slightly damp sponge to relax the thread.
The ribbons are easy to lay flat, but use a laying tool, your needle, or your finger for extra control.
