Getting Clean Ribbon Edges

[monizcel]

The edges of my ribbon always seem to get frayed once they are stuck down and I'm trimming them. Is there is a good way to get a clean edge on the ribbon. I have a specific set (sharp) of ribbon scissors.

Thanks!

[GreenDragonLady]

Are you cutting at an angle? Maybe you could try a dab of Fray Check or clear nail polish. Perhaps do a line of one or the other on the back of the ribbon, let it dry, and then trim through the line.

[palval77]

What's "Fray Check"?

[GreenDragonLady]

You can get it the fabric notions section at Joann's and such stores. You put a thin line on the edge of the cut. I use it on the back of my machine embroidery after I cut my jump stitches so they don't come undone!

[katestamps716]

For me, it is the scissors! I use the serrated Tim Holtz scissors and get a clean cut every time.

[DixieRae]

I use a lighter and run a quick flame across the cut edge.

[SCEmily]

I keep a pair of scissors just for cutting ribbon. Paper dulls scissors really bad, so if you keep a pair just for ribbon they will stay much sharper and and your ribbon will be less likely to fray. I really like my cutterbee's. I have a piece of ribbon tied on the handle of my them so I won't accidentally use them for paper.

[KatarinaM]

Originally Posted by DixieRae

I use a lighter and run a quick flame across the cut edge.

Ditto. Works like a charm. NOT for rayon ribbon though...ask me how I know!

[Stamping Emma]

Originally Posted by SCEmily

I keep a pair of scissors just for cutting ribbon. Paper dulls scissors really bad, so if you keep a pair just for ribbon they will stay much sharper and and your ribbon will be less likely to fray. I really like my cutterbee's. I have a piece of ribbon tied on the handle of my them so I won't accidentally use them for paper.

I do exactly the same thing with the exact same scissors! I have a piece of twine tied to my handle. I love my Cutterbee scissors.

[Scrapjanny]

Put a small dot of white glue on the tip of your finger, and rub it along the edges of your ribbon. Fabri-Tac works well, too.

[lbirus]

Originally Posted by Scrapjanny

Put a small dot of white glue on the tip of your finger, and rub it along the edges of your ribbon. Fabri-Tac works well, too.

I do this too if I've already cut the ribbon! I also agree that super sharp scissors and an angled cut are the key.

But if you still have trouble with a specific ribbon, you can also keep a mini can of hair spray near your craft area and give the ribbon a spritz about where you'll be cutting. Be careful not to spray on top of your card, or use a copy paper mask so you don't ruin the card. The hair spray makes it just a bit stiffer and keeps it from fraying as easily.

[stamphappy1650]

Originally Posted by katestamps716

For me, it is the scissors! I use the serrated Tim Holtz scissors and get a clean cut every time.

I use the same and I never, never cut anything but ribbon with them. I also cut the ribbon a little long and then trim once it's tied or attached.

[cardmaker2]

All good tips, thanks. Also whenever possible, I tuck the ribbon around the back of the layer so it isn't cut at the edge. I like the look of that better than cut.

[stampztoomuch]

Great tips!

I'm with Katarina, my favourite way to get a clean edge (or fray check ribbon) is to use a lighter to gently melt the end (I've even done it while it's stuck on something, and only scorched it once) but I am admittedly kind of nuts. ;O)

The lighter works great on any ribbon with the slightest bit of synthetic in it; for natural ribbon like cotton. I use Crystal lacquer to seal ends.

Scissor wise, I find even the best get dull quick. A multi pack at the dollar store can often do the trick for cheap and they make good junk drawer or kids craft scissors when they get dull...

[scrubbybubbles]

I read somewhere that you can use your heat gun to gently heat the ends of the ribbon as well. Works like a charm! Just be sure to hold the end of the ribbon with some tweezers or something that you can hold directly in the heat but, won't get hot while your holding them. I have MM tweezers that have rubber where you hold onto it so they don't burn me.

[Seaside Rose]

Originally Posted by DixieRae

I use a lighter and run a quick flame across the cut edge.

Similar technique for those of us who can never find a match.... I use the heat gun, but practice.... it takes a very quick swipe at just the right angle....

[princessp1971]

Originally Posted by SCEmily

I keep a pair of scissors just for cutting ribbon. Paper dulls scissors really bad, so if you keep a pair just for ribbon they will stay much sharper and and your ribbon will be less likely to fray. I really like my cutterbee's. I have a piece of ribbon tied on the handle of my them so I won't accidentally use them for paper.

I do the exact same thing!

[AmberAKAmom]

Originally Posted by DixieRae

I use a lighter and run a quick flame across the cut edge.

Me too.

[Phillis]

I use the the lighter method too. This idea has been around for a looooooong time. lol. I keep a Bic lighter handy at all times.

[Gina K. Designs]

I think it makes a difference when you trim the ribbon. Trim after you tie and use good scissors. I use Tim Holtz scissors. That serrated edge helps prevent fraying.

[Crafter 4 Life]

If you cut the ends with scissors, remember to designate a scissor for ribbon only. If you use any scissor, they may be dull - okay for paper, cording, thicker embellishments, etc. I have a pair of Cutterbees that I tied a ribbon on so I know this particular scissor is for cutting ribbon only.

[Willow01]

I am a BIG fan of Fray Check. It works great and I use on on every cut ribbon I do. But be careful on satin ribbon as it stains some colors when dry~~~only satin in my experience though.

[airbornewife]

I used to have the same problem.. I bought a pair of the Stampin' UP! Ribbon scissors and use them for nothing but ribbon and don't have anymore frayed ribbon.

[turkeyday53]

I firmly believe in using the electric craft knife and touching it to the edges of the cut ribbon.........works every time.......tried the Fray Check and similar products and they tend to leave a "stain" on the ribbon. Try this idea - it works!

e.

[Phillis]

Originally Posted by turkeyday53

I firmly believe in using the electric craft knife and touching it to the edges of the cut ribbon.........works every time.......tried the Fray Check and similar products and they tend to leave a "stain" on the ribbon. Try this idea - it works!

e.

Just curious. Where would I find an "electric craft knife"?

[MSBetsyZ]

Originally Posted by Phillis

Just curious. Where would I find an "electric craft knife"?

I was JUST thinking the same thing! I can't quite picture it...

[turkeyday53]

Sorry! It's actually called a woodburning tool ----

http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=18084

I tend to use the "knife" attachment more than any other.

e.