The Ribbon stitch, also known as the Japanese Ribbon stitch, is quick and easy. It forms three dimensional leaves and can be used in any embroidery work to add interest and speed up a project.

Watch the videos and follow these directions to perfect your Ribbon stitch.

• Cut your ribbon 12-14" long and at a 45 degree angle for ease of threading.

• Use a longer length needle and have another needle handy.

• Come up from back side of the fabric.

• Make sure the ribbon is not twisted and lay it flat on the fabric.

• At point that you want the leaf to end,  pierce the ribbon with the working needle, which will form a top loop.

vintage crewel ribbon embroidery kit dimensions 1464 take time bear flowers 1995 $0.99 (1 Bid) Time Remaining: 1h 24m

• Insert your spare needle in the loop and pull the needle through to form the curl.

• This method prevents the ribbon from being pulled to tightly and creates uniform curls.

• To ensure a smooth backside, don't knot the ribbon but instead, leave  a small tail and pierce it when you re-enter the fabric.

• Experiment with different spare needles to create different sized curls.

• Pierce the ribbon in the middle or on the edges for variation.