DIY Ribbon Garland

Since we found out we were having a girl I have been excited to make ribbon garland for use in her room and as a photo prop for her new born pictures. 

Now I am not a frilly person. Athletics, comfy sweatshirts, and a beer in a mason jar are for me. So for my daughter, I never envisioned tons of pink, tutus and sequins. When graciously buying used clothes from a friend for her I was overwhelmed by the shades of pink and was immediately drawn to navy blues, whites, greens and earthy flower patterns. 

I say this because I am still surprised at my obsession over white, light pink and gold for her. I picked out ribbon based on this color scheme to make a statement piece for her own room (some day) and her new born pictures and birth announcement (whom I kidding, I already have first birthday ideas).

 So here is how the ribbon garland came together:

Supplies: I started with 6 ribbons of various widths, styles and colors. I used a matching string that I doubled because it seemed thin to tie the ribbon to. Then you need a ruler and scissors. 

Cutting: I wanted my garland longer (figuring I can always cut it short later if I wanted but could never add length). So I measured out 24" of ribbon, folded it over and then cut (a total 48"). I was not worried about being exact with my measurements to make a rough edge. The string that I was tying it too I did not measure (oops), I just made it really long, figuring I can tie it up or cut the ends. 

Tying: At the half way point of each ribbon I made a loop then brought the two ends around the string and pulled it through the loop. The knots were a variety of shapes, I just tried to pull it tight. I did quickly realize that the knots looked best when all facing the same way (decide on a front) and I pulled the ribbon through from behind the string. 

Ribbon Arrangement: I started with my widest ribbon and since I had three sheer thick ribbon I alternated those across the string. Then I went back and filled in the other three ribbon where I felt they looked best. 

After I finished with my original six ribbon, I loved it but still thought it was missing something. So I bought a deeper glitter pink and a wider lace to add in. 

When you are happy with your color combination you can slide the ribbon along the string to be tighter together or more spread out to your liking. 

So excited to hang this up for baby girl!