How to Make a Ribbon Garland for Any Event

Finding the right decoration can be frustrating when every store offers the same basic garlands. You’re looking for something personal and colorful, but don’t know where to begin. The idea of creating your own can feel overwhelming, especially when you want it to reflect the unique vibe of your event. 

But with just a few simple steps, making a custom ribbon garland is easier than you think and adds that special touch you’ve been searching for.

What Is a Ribbon Garland and Why Use One?

A ribbon garland is a simple string filled with colorful ribbons tied across it, creating a bright and cheerful decoration for any event. It’s one of the easiest ribbon garland DIY projects you can make, and you can customize it with your favorite colors and textures. 

A garland with ribbon instantly adds charm and warmth to any space, whether it’s for a party or everyday decor.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Ribbon Garland

Learning how to make ribbon garland is easier than you might think, and it’s a fun DIY project anyone can enjoy. With just a few basic supplies and simple steps, you can create a beautiful garland that fits your style and event theme.

1. Gather Your Materials

Before you start, gather a few simple materials:

• Ribbons
• String
• Twine
• Yarn/rope
• Scissors

For a more personalized touch, you can also add optional extras like lace, glitter ribbon, beads, or faux flowers. You can create a beautiful garland with ribbon using things you likely already have at home.

2. Choose Your Ribbon Style

Choose the ribbon garland style that fits your event best. Each style creates a different vibe:

• Bow Style Garland: Light, elegant, and charming. Neatly tied bows hang softly, giving your space a sweet and delicate look. Best for baby showers, birthdays, cozy home décor, or any event where you want something simple and cute. For this style, consider using satin ribbons for a soft, luxurious feel or grosgrain ribbons for a textured, elegant finish. Both types will tie beautifully and add a classic touch to your decor.
• Tie & Loop Garland: Full, fluffy, and colorful. This lively style adds volume and instantly makes your space feel festive and fun. Best for parties, weddings, holiday celebrations, or any event that needs a bold, vibrant vibe. For a fuller look, try using wire ribbons or solid ribbons to achieve a more structured and voluminous garland. These ribbons hold their shape well, making them ideal for this bold style.

3. Pick Your Ribbon Colors

Choosing the right ribbon colors is key to matching your garland with ribbons to your event's theme. Based on the occasion, here are some recommended colors:

Select colors that fit the mood of your event and bring your ribbon garland to life!

4. Cut Your Ribbon

Cut strips around 10 to 18 inches long. Using the same length keeps the look neat, while mixed lengths add texture and movement. You’ll need enough strips to cover your entire string, and adding extra ribbon creates a fuller, fluffier ribbon garland. If you’re unsure, cut a few more strips than you think you need so your garland with ribbons looks rich and complete once finished.

5. Tie the Ribbons to the String

Now that your ribbons are cut and ready, it's time to start attaching them to the string. Follow these simple steps to securely tie your ribbons:

• Start by using a simple knot that's easy to learn and repeat, even for kids.
• Place each ribbon around the string, twine, or rope, and tie it securely.
• Gently pull both ends to tighten the knot and ensure it stays in place.
• Adjust the knot if needed to keep the ribbon even and centered.
• Continue tying ribbons along the string until the ribbon garland is full, fluffy, and visually balanced.

Once you've tied all the ribbons, your garland with ribbons will be ready to add color and charm to your space!

6. Keep Going Until It Looks Full

Keep tying ribbons until your ribbon garland looks full, fluffy, and colorful. Slide the ribbons closer together if you want a thicker look, or space them out for something lighter and airy. Step back once in a while to check how it looks from a distance. When it feels balanced and bright, your ribbon garland is ready to hang and enjoy.

7. Hang Your Ribbon Garland

Once your garland with ribbons is up, adjust the ribbons so they fall naturally and look balanced. A few small tweaks can make a big difference in showing off the colors and giving your display a polished finish. This simple step is part of how to make garland with ribbon, and it’s an easy way to create a beautiful result every time:

• Use tape, hooks, or push pins to attach your ribbon garland securely.
• Adjust the string so it hangs evenly and smoothly.
• Make sure the garland is positioned where all the colors can show off beautifully.

Common Problems You Will Experience Making a Ribbon Garland

Creating the perfect ribbon garland can be tricky, but with a few adjustments, you can easily fix common issues:

Your garland looks empty or thin

If your garland appears flat or sparse, don’t worry. Simply add more ribbons between the gaps to create a fuller look. Mixing in thicker ribbons, textured ribbons, or lace can also add depth and volume. The more layers you add, the fluffier and more festive your garland ribbon ideas will become.

Ribbons keep sliding or moving around

If your ribbons aren’t staying in place, it’s likely that the knots aren’t tight enough. To fix this, try using a double knot for a more secure grip on the string. You can also switch to a rougher base string like twine, which will help hold the ribbons in place better than smooth yarn or plastic strings.

String is showing too much

If the string is visible through the ribbons, there are a few simple fixes:

• Use wider ribbons like ⅝” grossgrain ribbon to cover more of the string.
• Add shorter ribbons between the longer ones to hide the string better.
• Layer additional ribbons for more coverage.
• Choose a darker or matching string color to blend in with the ribbons and make it less noticeable.

These small adjustments will ensure your ribbon garland looks polished and full, even if it's your first time making one.

Make Your Own Ribbon Garland for Any Event with BBCrafts

Learning how to make ribbon garland is simple, fun, and perfect for all ages. Experiment with new colors, mix styles, and explore different garland ribbon ideas to match every event. With just a few easy steps, you can create a vibrant and personalized decoration for any celebration.

Ready to add a personal touch to your next event? Visit BBCrafts to find everything you need to bring your ribbon garland to life!

Ribbon Garland Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to make a garland with ribbons?

To make a garland with ribbons, cut ribbon strips and tie them evenly onto a string, twine, or rope. Use simple knots and slide the ribbons close together for a fuller look. Adjust spacing as you go to keep the garland balanced and colorful.

What is the easiest way to make a garland?

The easiest way to make a garland is using pre-cut ribbon strips tied directly onto a single string. This method requires minimal tools and works well for beginners. Keeping ribbon lengths consistent helps the garland look neat with little effort.

How to make a 3 loop ribbon bow?

To make a 3 loop ribbon bow, create three equal loops and pinch them together at the center. Secure the middle tightly with wire or a small piece of ribbon. Fluff and adjust each loop so the bow looks full and even.

How to make simple ribbon leis?

Simple ribbon leis are made by cutting ribbon strips and tying them onto a circular string base. Space the ribbons closely to create a full, layered look. Finish by tying the ends of the string together to form the lei shape.

How to make ribbon hold its shape?

Ribbon holds its shape best when you use wired ribbon or stiffer materials like grosgrain. Lightly shaping the ribbon with your hands helps set its form. For extra hold, gentle heat from a hair dryer can help set curves.

How to make ribbon stay curled?

To keep ribbon curled, wrap it tightly around scissors or a dowel and pull firmly. Spray lightly with hairspray to help the curl last longer. Wired ribbon also stays curled better than soft satin ribbon.

How do you put ribbon garland on a Christmas tree?

Start at the top of the tree and weave the ribbon garland downward in loose loops. Tuck sections slightly into branches to keep it secure and natural-looking. Adjust spacing so the ribbon flows evenly around the tree.

How to make ribbon garland for a mantle?

Measure your mantle first so the ribbon garland fits properly. Tie ribbons closely onto a sturdy string and hang it using hooks or removable adhesive. Let the ribbons drape slightly for a soft, decorative finish.

How to add ribbon to garland?

To add ribbon to garland, tie or loop ribbon strips directly onto an existing garland base. Mix different ribbon widths and textures for added depth. Adjust placement to keep the look balanced and full.

How to make satin ribbon garland?

Satin ribbon garland is made the same way as other ribbon garlands but uses soft satin strips. Cut the ribbon cleanly and tie secure knots so it doesn’t slip. Satin works best when ribbons are placed close together for a smooth, elegant look.