#ribbon work

All My Heroes Wear Ribbon-Work

Mask made during the quarantine of 2020. Satin ribbons, four-ply braided beaded streamers, cut and fold Osage ribbon-work, metal sequins, brass bells, plastic pill pouch with cedar. Photo by Tom Fields

Ribbon Mania: or Ribbon Art, 1923

These images come courtesy of the Antique Pattern Library, an on-line resource that offers all kinds of patterns for artisans, some for home decor but many for fashion, that are out of copyright and so available to copy. This booklet from Spring 1923 shows some of the astonishing variety of fashions and creations which were taught to women.

Although World War I saw a simplification in garment line and accessories which served to both use less fabric and to create uniforms that were functional, frivolity never quite disappeared and the feminine details of dress came roaring back when shortages had disappeared. Hems moved further up off the ground, the waistline was dropping in the 1920s. While bobbed hair was also the fashion, and upset people who thought it made women look like men, you can see that headgear remained traditionally frilly and bowed. Men never got to wear hats like these in the 1920s. 

Ribbons were available in amazing variety including large widths that have largely disappeared from production today. So you see here suggested for trimming hats using ribbons of 5 inches, 6 inches, and even 9 inches, which suited some of the large hats then in fashion. In addition to directions on making and applying geometric shapes made from ribbons, instructions for making  flowers from ribbons are offered as well.

And this simply scratches the surface for everything from lingerie to baby gear to party decorations are described and explained. It is useful for both makers and for those interested in the history of fashion as you can see ribbon trim on everything from children’s wear to wedding dresses

I made good progress on the ribbonwork heart on the day but there is quite a way to go yet.  More foliage and some smaller flowers.  I love the way you get such subtle colouration with hand dyed ribbon.