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Stumped on how to make a wreath with patterns that work together? I have some powerful tips to help you overcome crafter’s block. Discover how to choose ribbon colors and patterns that make your project pop!

Hey, y’all! Learning how to make a wreath has several steps and components to it. One of the first things you have to do is come up with an idea for the project. Sometimes this can be done by selecting a theme. At other times, you might be so inspired by certain wreath supplies that you want to simply create a piece using them!

Choosing a theme for your wreath sounds like the trickiest part, but that isn’t always the case. Sometimes the theme is easy, and the color scheme is much harder to determine. I’m going to make that part easier and tell y’all about some of the best methods for picking your colors and theme for your beautiful wreaths!

How To Choose Ribbon Colors and Patterns For Your Project

How To Choose Ribbon Colors For A Wreath

Browsing ribbons in a craft store or online is so fun, and you may find that ideas just start popping into your head. But, then when you sit down at home and actually want to start making your wreath, do you hit crafter’s block?

You aren’t alone.

Let’s break this down into some really simple ways for you to choose ribbons and patterns so that you never get stumped again. The good news is that the method for starting a wreath and how to choose ribbon colors are pretty much the same. It all centers around the focal point and wreath’s theme!

Compare Ribbons Next To Each Other

The first way to choose ribbon colors and patterns is to hold them next to each other.

One of the simplest ways to do this is to walk into a store and choose ribbons that grab your attention. Pick any random ones you like! Then lay them all out next to each other to see which colors look good together.

You can do something similar with online stores as well. Just open two separate windows, each containing a close-up image of the wreath pattern. Place the windows side by side to compare them.

If this is harder for you to accomplish, try another tactic. Pick a sign or a theme first and create colors to surround that by picking ribbon colors from colors that are in the sign.

If you are new to this, it may sound like a challenging process now. Rest assured that over time, it’ll become easier to choose coordinating patterns quickly!

Create A Focal Point

Focal points are the most vital part of wreath-making, especially for beginners. Focal points are the center of interest or activity. This does not necessarily mean that your focal point has to be in the center though.

Focal points are usually centered, bigger than other sections, and contain something to draw the viewer in.

Some of the most common types of focal points on wreaths are: 

Signs

If you choose a sign as your focal point, draw ribbon colors from it so that everything ties together. Take a look at what colors are on the sign and use ribbons to match or complement them.

For example, if the sign has white writing on a wooden background, a burlap-colored ribbon along with white and pastel color would complete the rustic theme. 

Ribbon Bows

Bows are another focal point that draws attention and beauty to your wreath.

Common places for bows are: 

  • One enormous bow in the middle
  • A bunch of small bows scattered throughout the wreath
  • A large bow off-centered

Choosing a single focal point, like a bow in the middle, is a great place to start for those of you just beginning to make wreaths. 

Ornaments

Treat ornaments in a similar fashion to the way you handle bows.

Choose A Theme For Your Wreath

If you want to create a theme, choosing ribbon colors might become a little bit more difficult. When you have a focal point, such as a sign, you have an automatic focal point and item to draw inspiration. When you design a wreath around a theme, there won’t be a natural visual to pull your color choices from.

Examples of popular wreath themes are: 

  • SeasonalFall, Christmas, Easter
  • Sports – sports in general such as football or basketball or specific local or national teams
  • Animal / Pet
  • Professional – celebrating a job like a nurse or a veterinarian
  • Hobby – coffee-lover, wine-enthusiast
  • Cause – autism or another cause close to your hear

Some theme choices are more obvious than others. For example, if you choose a sports team theme, just use the colors of the team.

However, if you choose something broader, such as a season, your ribbon color choices will broaden along with your theme.

I find it easiest to say your theme out loud and choose the colors that pop into your head first. Those are the colors that you associate with your theme and chances are, others associate the same colors which will make your wreath more aesthetically pleasing to all.

In this case, you have to visualize the theme in your head to pick the ribbon. Some people have a notebook that they use to write down the theme as well as ideas for pulling it all together. 

Note: The purpose of your finished wreath will also have an impact on your theme and colors. For example, if you plan to keep your wreath up all year round, it’s probably not best to use something catered towards a certain season or holiday.

Utilize The Power Of Black And White Ribbon Colors

You may think that the more colors you use, the better. But, sometimes, it’s best to use just a few colors and work in some black and white. 

Choosing to throw in black and white along with your general color scheme will enhance your wreath’s presentation.

White takes some of the focus away from your busy colors, making the wreath seem calmer and organized while causing your dark or dull colors to pop. Black works to pull everything together and makes the brighter, more vibrant colors burst.

Something as simple as adding in a black or white ribbon can greatly enhance your wreath design.

How To Choose Ribbon Patterns

Patterns for your wreath are almost as important as choosing ribbon colors. They add depth and texture and should flow naturally with your wreath’s theme. 

Pick out patterns that effortlessly communicate the overall wreath theme.

Some of the most common ribbon patterns include:

If you choose to use multiple patterns, you may want to consider using more dull, subtle colors to compliment the craziness of the different patterns. You can decide this by utilizing a theme or focal point on your wreath. 

Choose Ribbon Colors And Patterns Based On The Person Receiving It

An important element to keep in mind is whether you plan to gift or sell any of the wreaths you make. If you love purple, but you plan to gift a wreath to someone who isn’t as fond of purple, you may want to skip using it for their sake.

Pick Your Ribbon Material

The last point to take into consideration is the type of material you are using for your ribbon.

Here are the most common types of ribbons for wreaths:

  • Grosgrain ribbon works well for trimming and edging your wreath, and it comes in a large variety of colors.
  • Satin ribbon is used in more elegant wreaths.
  • Velvet can be used for a more elegant feel and look; it is perfect for holiday wreaths.
  • Canvas has a great texture and is stiff, and holds its shape perfectly. It is a perfect ribbon type for bows and loops.
  • Wired ribbon works wonders if you need a sturdy ribbon, like for making your own bow.

Material for ribbons is much like patterns. Many different materials can be used to fit your theme, but what is most important is that your colors complement each other. 

NOTE: We only recommend wired ribbons for craft projects, no matter what material the ribbon is made of, because they hold their shape the best.

How To Choose Ribbon: Make It Your Own

All in all, the method you use for picking your wreath color scheme all comes down to personal preference.

If choosing random colors that catch your eye is natural to you, then color schemes are probably simple for you. However, if you aren’t as seasoned as others in wreath making, remember to base your ribbon colors around a focal point, and everything else will fall into place. Happy wreath-making!

Multi colored striped ribbons for a bow

More Ribbon Inspiration

If you’re in need of any help with bow-making, wreath-making, or crafting in general, be sure to check out more of our tutorials on How to Make Wreaths.

We would love to see your ruffle wreaths! Please share with us over at the How To Make Wreaths Facebook Group.

If you are interested in more info on learning how to make wreaths, where to buy supplies, and being in a community of like-minded crafters, check out our Creative Coaching Subscription Group.

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