RibbonFloss

RibbonFloss is a braided rayon ribbon designed for embroidery, cross-stitch, and needlepoint work. Unlike traditional 6-strand embroidery floss, which you separate and recombine, RibbonFloss is a single flat ribbon ready to use straight from the package. The braided construction gives it a unique texture and dimensional appearance, creating beautiful raised stitches with excellent coverage. Rayon provides a lustrous sheen that catches light differently than cotton floss, adding visual interest and depth to your embroidery. RibbonFloss glides smoothly through fabric without tangling or knotting, making it easier to work with than traditional floss for many stitchers. It's especially popular for decorative hand stitching, dimensional hand embroidery, and projects where you want your stitches to have texture and body.

For best results with RibbonFloss, use a Chenille #22 or #24 needle, which has a large eye and sharp point designed for ribbon and thick threads. The large eye accommodates the flat ribbon structure without crushing or fraying it, and the sharp point pierces fabric cleanly without pulling or distorting the weave.

If you're working on evenweave or Aida cloth for cross-stitch, a Tapestry #22 or #24 needle with a blunt tip works well because it slips between the fabric threads rather than piercing them. The blunt tip prevents snagging and keeps your stitches even.

For best coverage and visual impact, use short lengths of RibbonFloss (12-14 inches) to prevent tangling and keep the ribbon from becoming worn as you stitch.

RibbonFloss excels in dimensional hand embroidery, cross-stitch, needlepoint, and any project where you want stitches with texture and body. The braided rayon construction creates raised, lustrous stitches that catch light beautifully. Popular applications include: floral embroidery where you want petals to have dimension, decorative borders on quilts and garments, crazy quilt embellishments, and surface stitching on accessories like purses and sachets. RibbonFloss is especially striking in satin stitch, chain stitch, and French knots where the ribbon structure shows to advantage.

Start by leaving a 2-inch tail on the back of your fabric and weaving it under your first few stitches as you work. For ending, weave the tail under several stitches on the back before cutting. Because RibbonFloss is flat and has more body than regular floss, it stays in place well once woven through existing stitches. Avoid knots if possible, as they can create bulk that shows through to the front on lightweight fabrics. For very smooth fabric backs, a tiny dot of fabric glue on the woven tail can provide extra security.

RibbonFloss is made from rayon, which is best for projects that won't be washed frequently or vigorously. For wall hangings, decorative items, and display pieces, it's perfect. For items that will be washed, hand wash gently in cool water and lay flat to dry. Avoid wringing or machine washing, which can distort the braided structure. For frequently laundered items like children's clothing or everyday accessories, consider using polyester embroidery thread like Elite instead. RibbonFloss's beauty shines in special projects meant to be admired rather than heavily used.