Decorative Packaging

Following this ribbon invasion, the Napoleonic Wars, early in the nineteenth century, hindered the production of ribbon and caused the industry to suffer, because many skilled ribbon weavers were recruited for military duties.

With supply cut by a huge margin, the demand became even greater. In fact, ribbon became a popular item for smuggling.

In 1813, when ribbon with scalloped edges, called picot-edged, was introduced a second ribbon boom was seen. For at last two years this picot-edged ribbon was  fashion must-have, and manufacturers saw increased profits.

Interestingly, the demand for ribbon was one of the things which gave way to the Industrial Revolution. In the 1770s, the Dutch engine loom allowed six types of ribbon to be manufactured simultaneously. This was a production breakthrough which came right on cue for ribbon to be used to adorn the towering wigs which were in fashion in the European courts.

In contrast, in the American colonies, ribbons were rarely worn. It is speculated that this could be due to religious beliefs of the time, or in quiet rebellion against the wasteful extravagance of Europeans.  

In the seventeenth century, an increased enthusiasm and demand gave way to a manufacturing boom in Coventry England and Lyons France became ribbon-making headquarters of the day.

Ribbon had invaded the world of fashion and clothing design. During this period, it was equally popular for both men’s and women’s clothing. Every clothing item, from bonnets to shoes were enhanced and adorned with ribbon.

Ribbon became a popular gift, which the recipient could use to accessorize furnishings, lines or secure hairstyles with braids and curls.  

The type of ribbon we are familiar with today, with finished edges, was first produced in the early 1500s. The use of ribbons became so widely associated with social status and wealth that during the Sixteenth Century, the English Parliament attempted to limit the wearing of ribbons to persons of nobility.

Ribbons were also used to identify other things, for example the Knights of the Garter would wear broad blue sashes and the Knights of Bath would wear red, a tradition that is continued to this day.

The use of ribbon goes back as far as when people began making fabric. Ribbonis one of the most longstanding decorative embellishments. Because individuals have always searched for ways to enhance and adorn their attire and home furnishings, ribbon has been used in this way for centuries.

In the past, when all textiles were made by hand, fabrics with the finest threads were the most expensive. However, even lower quality material could be enhanced with the addition of ribbon.

In the Middle Ages, salesmen traveling across Europe would sell enticing ribbons to be used to accessorize garments and other items. For instance, the tales  of Geoffrey Chaucer include references to ‘ribbands’ on clothing.

The French term ‘passementarie’ is now used by those who speak English to refer to the use or creation of decorative trim. A few modern-day examples include, military uniforms, designer clothing, and home decorator items. 

Tassel making is regarded as a type of passementerie.  In fact, tassels are usually considered a timeless category of decorative trim. The boundless possibilities for variety and creativity make tassels a decorative accessory that can be well-suited to any tastes.

For those of us who love the feel of different fabrics and textures, tassels have a captivating quality. Though it has been said that tassels, like many other ornaments, serve no purpose, those who enjoy creativity and craftsmanship disagree. Also, a more practical use can be identified. If you attach a tassel to a ceiling fan pull cord you can more easily grip the cord to operate the fan. You can also use tassels to tag items you don’t want to lose track of in a cluttered ’junk’ drawer.

Whether celebrating a special event in your life or just simply showing how much you care, gifts wrapped in satin can express the depth of your affection. Try adding a satin ribbon as a finishing touch when wrapping your gift.

Opening a gift is a journey. It starts with the unraveling of the ribbon and peeking into the box in order to slowly reveal the gift inside.  Having a beautifully wrapped gift can be as much fun as the gift inside.

Gift should be wrapped and packaged with care. Decorative packaging is a beautiful way of letting your loved one know you put a lot of thought into the gift. A decorative ribbon or beautiful box will bring a lasting impression of good taste and class.

Use sturdy boxes for heavy gifts. Boxes and other packaging materials can be re-used for other purposes to be green. Use ribbons appropriately with lots of pretty colors.  You will see a nice reaction just from the gift receiver looking at the package.