About Ribbon Embroidery and Needle Size

Ribbon embroidery is beautiful and adds something special to a variety of items. It also takes a steady hand a bit of know how to make it come out just right. Knowing the difference between ribbon sizes and needle sizes will help you create the perfect embroidery.

Needle type

A chenille needle is the most commonly used for silk ribbon embroidery. The needles come in a variety of sizes; the larger the number the smaller the needle. Chenille needles are very sharp, which is very helpful when moving back and forth between multiple layers. You can use other needle type, but chenille needles will give you the best overall results

Ribbon type

Silk is the most often used in ribbon embroidery. You are typically making flowers and they look best. The other reason is that there is a historical significance behind the silk. As with any other thread or fabric, you should always pre wash the ribbon before use.

Ribbon and needle size

Ribbon is generally measured in inches of millimeters, the smaller the number the smaller the ribbon. Needles are the exact opposite, they are measures in millimeters and the larger the number the smaller the needle.

Recommended ribbon and needle sizes

Ribbon/2mm-needle/24

Ribbon/4mm-needle/22

Ribbon/7mm- needle/22

Ribbon/13mm- needle/18

These are just a few of the most popular sizes.

Ribbon embroidery is a beautiful needle art and was once considered a rich persons past-time due to the cost of materials. Today, many embroiderers keep the art alive with their stunning talent.