Ribbon, especially striped or dotted grosgrain ribbons, work very well to create a variety of pretty and preppy fashion accessories. Choose ribbons in a variety of pastel shades, particularly bright pastels and varying widths. Add touches of black, white, charcoal gray and chocolate brown. Ribbon crafts work well for adults or children and can be a fun addition to any wardrobe, especially in the spring and summer months.
Preppy Ribbon Belts
Choose two lengths of 1 ½-inch wide grosgrain ribbon, approximately 8 to 10 inches longer than your waist measurement. Cut Heat n' Bond adhesive to 1 ¼ inches wide. You can also choose to use premade 7/8-inch and 5/8-inch Heat n' Bond tapes. You will also need two 1 ½-inch D rings to make a preppy belt. Bond the inner and outer ribbons together according to the manufacturer's directions. Stitch on each side 1/8 inch from the edge of the ribbon belt. Hem one end of the ribbon by folding it over ½ inch and then ½ inch again and stitching into place. Place the unsewn end of the belt through the two D rings. Fold that end under ½ inch and fold again approximately 2 inches from the end. Stitch 1/8 inch from the first fold, encasing the D rings in this loop of ribbon.
Ribbon Headbands
Use a 15- to 20-inch length of grosgrain ribbon, depending on the size of your head, and two standard hair elastics to make a ribbon headband. Interlock the ponytail holders, forming a knot between them. Finish the ends of the ribbon with a product like Fray-Check or melt the edges with a lighter. Loop one ribbon end over the knotted hair elastic and stitch into place by hand or machine. Repeat with the other side. Wear on its own or with a high or low ponytail. Use a velvet ribbon for a dressier preppy look.
Ribbon Accents and Accessories
Add ribbon accents to your clothing for a playful touch. Stitch grosgrain ribbon around the hem of a skirt or collar of a blouse or polo shirt. Consider adding narrow ribbons to a cardigan. You can also make simple, flat ribbon bows for your hair or clothing. Make a flat loop and secure with a narrow, tight band at the center. Attach to a pin or barrette back. Choose grosgrain or velvet ribbon. For summer, decorate your flip-flops with brightly colored preppy ribbons. You might also use a wider ribbon to make a simple ribbon cuff. Hem the ends by hand, machine or with hem tape and stitch snaps into place for a clever and unusual bracelet.
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