Free Silk Ribbon Embroidery Designs and Projects

For those who enjoy embroidery, a different type of embroidery called silk ribbon embroidery (SRE) is a lovely variation.

What is ribbon embroidery?

Ribbon embroidery is a type of embroidery that is basically stitching with ribbon. Unlike traditional embroidery, ribbon embroidery is used to create stunning dimensions on the stitched pieces.

Ribbon embroidery dates back to the 1700s where the silk ribbon embroidery was used as embellishments on clothing, quilts, home decor items and much more.

What is the difference between embroidery and silk ribbon embroidery?

Traditional embroidery is most often stitched using embroidery floss or threads.  In contrast, silk ribbon embroidery is stitched using ribbon. 

Ribbon embroidery creates texture and adds dimension to the ribbon embroidery designs, unlike traditional embroidery which is made with simple stitches on the surface of the fabric.

Both types of embroidery use similar stitches such as the straight stitch, French knot, backstitch, and chain stitch.  However, the ribbon stitch is used exclusively with ribbon embroidery.

What would ribbon embroidery be without the ribbon embroidery stitch?!

This stitch is used to form many different flowers and other motifs. It does take some practice, but it is well worth the time to learn.

Flowers are the most common ribbon embroidery designs because the silk ribbon makes loops and twists that create very lifelike florals.

What is the best ribbon to use with ribbon embroidery?

It is best to use silk ribbons designed especially for ribbon embroidery. The silk is very thin which makes it easier to stitch through the fabric than synthetic ribbons.

At times, the ribbon is stitched through itself as part of the ribbon embroidery design, and the silk ribbon makes this easy.

Silk ribbon is also washable which is a plus when doing the embroidery on fabrics that will need to be washed like clothing, table cloths, etc. When using synthetic ribbon, it is important to test both whether it is colorfast as well as whether it can easily be worked through the fabric being used.

This page is full of beautiful ribbon embroidery designs and free silk ribbon patterns. The floral silk ribbon embroidery designs include the following flowers:

• Daisy
• Rose
• Viola
• Sunflower
• Fuchsia
• Lavender
• Tulips
• Vines

Other designs below include:

• Bees
• Ladybugs
• Wheat
• Hearts
• Butterflies

Scroll down to discover beautiful silk ribbon embroidery designs, patterns, and projects. Creating embroidery with ribbon takes some practice, but some of the designs found below will help to start very simple.

Check out our Ribbon Embroidery and Designs page to learn the basic stitches and designs.

Explore silk ribbon embroidery and make the romantic floral stitches come to life!