A simple, quietly understated 1” wide grosgrain ribbon trim adds a tailored touch to a classic Bob Collins chintz dust ruffle in Palm Beach.
What decorative trim is timeless, tailored, and unbelievably cost-effective? It is used to enhance curtains, valances, upholstery, pillows, dust ruffles, and it even graces dresses, hats, shoes, and ponytails.
It is a grosgrain ribbon! (Pronounced: GROW-grain)
Grosgrain is a very versatile ribbon. It has a distinctive ribbed texture which also serves to enhance its durability, more so than satin or silk ribbons. Its matte finish is not flashy, making it a quiet classic.
I have used Samuel & Sons grosgrain ribbons for years for my clients. This kind of ribbon can also be easily obtained on the internet, like this roll of 2” white ribbon.
Grosgrain in the 17th century referred to a garment fabric that was black and durable. In the 1920s “grosgrain ribbon” was introduced, and now, there are a multitude of colors and printed designs available.
I like to think of grosgrain ribbon as having a “distinguished appearance.” It continues to embellish evening wear, like the bow on a gentleman’s formal black evening pumps.
It was love at first sight when Stuart purchased these shoes in London for me with the pink grosgrain ribbon bow!
Consider applying a 1” to 2” wide grosgrain ribbon along the leading edge and bottom hemline of your curtain panels. Choose a complementary color to the fabric design or room scheme… or simply choose a neutral color, like white.
These curtain pull-panels have 1½” white grosgrain ribbon. It is applied one inch off of the leading edge of the panels.
I specify a grosgrain ribbon trim to be sewn about ½” to 1 ½” off the leading edges on a curtain panel. Where it is placed depends on the pattern of the fabric, the height of the room, and the width of the curtains. Two or more smaller ribbons can be added, too.
This grosgrain ribbon has “picot” edges which adds a touch of femininity. This bow pulls back the bed hangings on my daughter’s bed at Fox Hall.
Have fun, be clever, and think outside of the box when designing with grosgrain ribbon. Ever since I was sixteen, I have applied grosgrain to my dress designs and hairbands… I never tire of it!
XX
Holly
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