If you want to give your sewing projects a more professional and stylish finish, well-fitting and beautifully sewn ribbed edges are a great step in the right direction. Whether it's a simple blouse, a pair of joggers or a sassy bomber jacket, the right ribbed edges can really put the finishing touches on your look.
We have a huge range of both simple and more sophisticated ribbed trims in every colour, so you can add the finishing touch to your projects and finish with an aesthetic and stylish look - every time.
How do you sew on a ribbed edge?
No matter how skilled you are at sewing, ribbed edges can be tricky if you don't get the measurements right or have the right equipment. The easiest way to sew ribbed edges is definitely to use an overlocker, but if you don't have one in your kit, a regular elastic stitch will do the job too.
To give the right finish to your ribbed edge project, it's important to make sure you measure correctly. As a rule of thumb, the rib edge should be 25% shorter than the edge it will be sewn onto, but this can of course vary depending on the effect you want to achieve. However, if you are sewing a regular rib edge on the bottom of a blouse or similar, a good starting point is to write -25% behind the ear.
When sewing on the ribbing, it is important to make sure you use pins so that the ribbing is evenly distributed around the perimeter, giving an even look. Start by stitching in the side seams, then stretch out so the rib is straight on the project, then mark the centre front and back by inserting pins to hold the fabric and rib together.
Now you can sew around with an elastic stitch, remembering to stretch the rib out so that it matches the length of the edge it will be sewn onto. This creates a nice, even edge, like you'd see on blouses and sweaters in stores.
Ready-made ribbing or ribbing by the metre?
You'll find colourful and beautiful ribbed edges by the metre, as well as ready-made ribbed edges that are ready to sew onto your projects. We've chosen this to make it easier for you. If you're new to sewing, the ready-made ribbed edges can give you the chance to practice and get comfortable with the process before you dive into having to measure out your own.
Choose what you think is most beautiful, most practical or what just makes the most sense for the particular project you're working on.
Buy your ribbing from us
We've got everything you need for your creative projects - and everything you didn't know you needed. Our goal is that you only ever have to shop one place when you choose us. That's why we're also on hand to answer your questions or queries, should there be anything you're unsure about or can't find. Discover and order your favourites today!