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pleated projects week: pleated ribbon embellishments

    Today’s project is a favorite because of it’s versatility.

    pleated-ombre-ribbon-sweater-

    The technique is simple: hand pleat ribbon and stitch onto desired item. I chose one of Audrey’s simple cardigan sweaters, but you could easily do this to a t shirt, a pillow, a headband, shoe clips … just use your imagination.

    Here’s what you’ll need:

    supplies-for-sweater-with-pleated-ribbon

    :: sweater {or t shirt, pillow, etc
    :: various ribbons {grosgrain or satin}
    :: coordinating thread
    :: scissors
    :: sewing machine and pins {not shown}

    Start by laying out a pattern for your ribbon.

    lay-out-ribbon-in-desired-order

    Next, create knife pleats {folds that go in the same direction} and iron to hold shape.  I just folded by hand, but you could mark measurements if you’d like your pleats to be perfectly spaced.

    iron-pleats-into-ribbon

    Pin pleated ribbon onto sweater in desired location.

    first-pleat-pinned

    Continue pleating each ribbon and pin to sweater.

       pin-all-pleats-to-the-sweater

    pleats-pinned-to-sweater

    Using a matching thread, stitch along the top of the ribbon pleat.

    stitch-on-pleated-ribbon

    Switch out your thread with each different color of ribbon.

    Here’s the final product:  pleated-ribbon-sweater

    Isn’t it darling?!

    ombre-pleated-ribbon-sweater

    A very simple way to embellish.

    I’d love to see what you are inspired to create … be sure to share your pleated project on friday!

    11 thoughts on “pleated projects week: pleated ribbon embellishments”

    1. I love your color choices and width variation. This would also be great if the sweater (t-shirt, pillowcase, etc.) had a stain you wanted to cover.

    2. Adorable!! Wanted to ask – do you wash your ribbon before you sew with it? Thanks for sharing your wonderful ideas!!

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