Blue Ribbon Kitchen: Day 3: 12 Days of Christmas: Ribbon!!

Ribbon can be the answer to creating beautiful and stunning décor.

Many times the answer to getting a polished look to

your holiday decorating has a lot to do with layering of complimentary

ornaments, ribbon, textures and plenty of lights...

as someone who decorates Christmas trees for a living, I can tell you:

more lights = holiday magic.

If you want to learn some of the secrets about how

to transform your holiday spaces into a winter wonderland... keep reading.

Here is a gorgeous example of using the

layering technique on an

artificial tree.

Additional snowy branches are added,

complimentary stems of cream hydrangea,

frosted pine cones and lots of ornaments...

some wooden, dome glittery --all complimentary to the overall look

The ribbon creates movement. Different widths, and patterns

can help create a design that keeps the eye moving and finding new

holiday surprises from every angle.

Often times, we cut the ribbon into sections, this helps to make the ribbon go

further, and keeps things budget-friendly.

Simply nestle the ends of the cut ribbon into tree branches where the

cut ends are not visible.

Here is a great example of ribbon used on the ends of each bough.

Complimentary gold edged ribbon is woven throughout.

Remember-- it's not one continuous piece-we trim it down.

Mixing those ribbons--but here on our front door wreath.

A mixing of patterns and textures can create an tailored style, and it adds interest.

The good news about holiday decorating...

it doesn't have to be expensive to look beautiful...

homemade-is wonderful.

inexpensive-is smart.

Many times you may chooses a theme

or a "look" for only one season...

So save money where you can.

This pretty paid tree uses dollar-store pre-made

bows on each bough

for a very traditional and thrifty look.

So, that's the good news.

Even better news??

Yes, there is even better news.

Ribbon is the answer, and it is accessible and affordable.

So welcome everyone!
Warmest holiday wishes to you today...
on this, the
third day of our 12 DAYS of Blue Ribbon Kitchen!!

Below you’ll find a variety of my favorite ways

to include ribbon in decorating…

from hand-wired bows to flowing garlands…

the ribbon done right can add so much to the setting.

10 Reasons to LOVE Ribbon

Ribbon comes in every style and color...so you are never stuck...endless possibilities.
Ribbon is versatile...can be used indoors, and out.
Wire or without wire... which might matter depending on the project...Perfect for bow making.
Ribbon can be dressed up and dressed down...
It's reusable... take it off projects/tables carefully and you'll have some for the next project.
Adds a polished look to gifts... nice ribbon can liven up even the silliest of white elephant gifts.
Ribbon...tied around my resume...landed me a fantastic opportunity! (I just KNOW it was that ribbon)
Ribbon adds so much to table settings...added to a centerpiece or tied around a napkin.
I always incorporate ribbon as garland on some of our Christmas tress... it's lightweight.
Budget friendly...use a coupon, wait for a sale, or buy off season...ribbon is always in style!

Pretty wins in my book when

it comes to décor choices... even if

NOBODY

else is doing it... if you LOVE it and think it

looks good...go with your gut.

For my too much...over-the-top,

beautifully tied, blue-ribbon wearing resume...

Or a ribbon-clad wreath…

if you love the look…

that’s the most important element at the end of the day.

If you are not using ribbon in

your decorating... don't be shy

about trying it...

Consider ALL the amazing possibilities it offers...

10 Reasons to LOVE Ribbon

Ribbon comes in every style and color...so you are never stuck...endless possibilities.
Ribbon is versatile...can be used indoors, and out.
Wire or without wire... which might matter depending on the project...Perfect for bow making.
Ribbon can be dressed up and dressed down...
It's reusable... take it off projects/tables carefully and you'll have some for the next project.
Adds a polished look to gifts... nice ribbon can liven up even the silliest of white elephant gifts.
Ribbon...tied around my resume...landed me a fantastic opportunity! (I just KNOW it was that ribbon)
Ribbon adds so much to table settings...added to a centerpiece or tied around a napkin.
I always incorporate ribbon as garland on some of our Christmas tress... it's lightweight.
Budget friendly...use a coupon, wait for a sale, or buy off season...ribbon is always in style!

I use ribbon ALL the time:

You'll see it regularly on FOX19
recipe segments to add

a pop of color and movement to my displays

Floral arrangements

Wreaths

Treat bags

Christmas Garland

Pumpkins

Eater Baskets

Embellishments

Vases

Chairs

Napkin Holders

On Curtains and Draperies

Sometimes in place of curtains

Table Runners

Jar Lids

Ornaments

Gift Cards

Envelopes

As Seasonal Garlands

Chandelier Décor
Urns and Outdoor Décor
Fence Posts
Light Posts...

--if a color speaks to you...

I think you have to go with

what makes you feel the happiest.

Clearly, I have a thing for red and gingham.

Good alternatives to traditional ribbon, that still work: ricrac, felted garlands, paper swirls, paper chains, and even paper fans. The list goes on and on.

Cutting Tips:

Buy good ribbon...with a nice feel and made well.

Do not use good scissors to cut wired ribbon.
Instead...Use a pair of wire cutters or a
designated pair of "wire ribbon"
scissors so your good scissors stay sharp.

Use good sharp scissors to make cuts on the ends.

For large projects, buy an extra roll...
So many times, I was just a few
inches short and then could not
find the same color... Measure twice... buy once!

If you end up not needing it... return it.