When discussing ribbons and trims used to embellish projects, ribbon and trim can be divided into two main types: woven and non-woven. Ribbons that are woven are basically narrow with specially finished edges. Ribbons that are non-woven are usually made from textile yarns which are bonded with adhesive or made from plastics. Woven ribbons are used in home decor, clothing and crafting, while non-woven ribbons are given qualities that allow them to be curled, shredded or treated in other ways, making them useful for crafting or gift wrapping.

 

The topic of this discussion is the elegant Jacquard ribbon which is an example of woven ribbon and trim, and the most popular. It is tightly woven, intricate, very detailed and artistic. It is named after Joseph-Marie Jacquard, a Frenchman who invented the Jacquard loom. This specialized loom made it possible to weave the intricate patterns and designs that make Jacquard ribbon and trim elegant and distinctive. Due to the weave of this type of ribbon, the true Jacquard ribbon can be identified by its definite right and wrong side.

 

Joseph-Marie Jacquard knew that weaving is very repetitive and time-consuming but produces an intricate and delicate pattern. He believed it could be created using automation and invented a loom that relied on stiff, pasteboard cards with various patterns of punched holes. As the loom moves, the pattern of holes determines the programs for the design. The Jacquard loom allows flexibility and complexity in the woven patterns, which include graphic, abstract and floral designs.

 

Jacquard ribbon and trim are available in so many varieties including metallic, non-metallic, organza, beaded and sequined, braids, fringes, appliques and gift wrap ribbon. These varieties allow for fashion and art as well as beauty. The designs of the ribbon and trim illustrate the elegance and creativity of the creator. Some of these types of ribbons have hand-beading to add to the intricate designs.

 

The uses of Jacquard ribbons and trims can be used in so many different projects that it is not possible to name them all. Some of the uses are dresses, scarves, jackets, belts, handbags and footwear. Some types of Jacquard ribbons are great when used on linens, bedspreads, pillow cases and towels. Ribbons can also decorate dog collars, leashes and other handcrafted projects.

 

In comparison are the other types of woven ribbon. One example of woven ribbons is Grosgrain ribbons, which are durable and flexible, but the characteristic crosswise ribs give the ribbon enough body for a crisp appearance. The most common use of Grosgrain ribbon is for cheerleading bows and craft bows. Other examples are chiffon, organdy and organza which are light-weight and sheer, and taffeta ribbons which are light-weight but may or may not be sheer.

 

Two examples of woven ribbon that rival Jacquard ribbon with elegance are velvet ribbon and Moire ribbon. Velvet ribbon is also tightly woven and has a low-cut pile surface giving this ribbon a plush side and a plain underside. Moire ribbon is woven to have a ripple appearance that is sometimes called a watermark.

 

These types of ribbon, especially Jacquard ribbon, can be added to many projects for embellishment and elegance, or to make a statement. Even when used on dog collars, this ribbon is able to transform a collar to a fashionable wardrobe addition.