DIY Double Braided Ribbon Lay: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 13/05/2025

Double braided ribbon lays are a charming and surprisingly simple way to add a touch of elegance to almost any project, from hair accessories and gift wrapping to clothing embellishments and home décor. Their delicate, interwoven texture offers a sophisticated contrast to bolder materials, making them a versatile choice for crafters of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned artisan looking for a new technique or a beginner eager to explore the world of ribbon crafting, this beautiful technique is well within your reach. The intricate look belies its ease of creation; trust us, it's far simpler than it appears!

This guide provides a clear and concise, step-by-step process for creating your own stunning double braided ribbon lay. We'll walk you through each stage, from choosing the right ribbons to securing the final braid, ensuring you achieve a professional finish every time. Ready to transform simple ribbons into a beautiful, handcrafted element? Let's get started!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Four rolls of ribbon (two of each color)
  • Paper clips
Safety Guidelines
  • Use sharp scissors to prevent frayed edges and ensure clean cuts. Dull scissors can cause the ribbon to snag or fray, making it harder to braid.
  • Be mindful of your fingers when braiding. The ribbon can be slippery, and sharp edges can cause accidental cuts. Take your time and work slowly to avoid injury.
  • If using metallic or wired ribbons, handle with care. These ribbons can be more difficult to manipulate and may have sharp edges or wires that can prick your skin.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Materials

    • Use paper clips to keep pairs of ribbons together.
    • Decide which color ribbon will be on the outside of your lay.
    • Tie a knot in one ribbon of each pair (your inside color), and create a loop in the other (your outside color). Leave a few inches of tail on each.
    Create initial knots and loops: Tie a knot in one ribbon of each pair (your inside color), and create a loop in the other (your outside color). Leave a few inches of tail on each.Create initial knots and loops: Tie a knot in one ribbon of each pair (your inside color), and create a loop in the other (your outside color). Leave a few inches of tail on each.Create initial knots and loops: Tie a knot in one ribbon of each pair (your inside color), and create a loop in the other (your outside color). Leave a few inches of tail on each.
    Prepare Materials

  2. Initial Interlocking

    • Place one loop (outside color) through the knotted loop of the other pair.
    • Double-check that the tails are underneath the main ribbon in each pair.
    • Lay your pairs in the correct order, ensuring your chosen outside color is on the outside.
    Arrange the pairs: Lay your pairs in the correct order, ensuring your chosen outside color is on the outside.Arrange the pairs: Lay your pairs in the correct order, ensuring your chosen outside color is on the outside.Arrange the pairs: Lay your pairs in the correct order, ensuring your chosen outside color is on the outside.
    Initial Interlocking

  3. Begin Braiding

    • Start by passing the yellow ribbon (paired with the top green loop) through the green loop.
    • Repeat the process, alternating between the pairs. Pull each ribbon taut to keep the braid neat.
    • Regularly check and adjust the braid to keep it even and tidy. Use your fingers to hold and guide the ribbons.
    Maintain neatness: Regularly check and adjust the braid to keep it even and tidy. Use your fingers to hold and guide the ribbons.Maintain neatness: Regularly check and adjust the braid to keep it even and tidy. Use your fingers to hold and guide the ribbons.
    Begin Braiding

  4. Finishing and Embellishing

    • Continue braiding until you reach your desired length (40-48 inches). When nearing the end, complete the final weaving steps and secure all ribbons together with a knot.
    • Tie and optionally sew together the ends of the ribbons. Add a decorative bow to cover the ends and enhance the finished lay.
    Tie and embellish: Tie and optionally sew together the ends of the ribbons. Add a decorative bow to cover the ends and enhance the finished lay.Tie and embellish: Tie and optionally sew together the ends of the ribbons. Add a decorative bow to cover the ends and enhance the finished lay.
    Finishing and Embellishing

Read more: DIY Tiered Tassel Earrings: A Quick & Easy Jewelry Tutorial

Tips

  • Always stop braiding after completing two loops if you need to pause.
  • Make loops larger for easier braiding.
  • Regularly check and tighten the braid to maintain neatness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Tension

Reason: Pulling too tight on one braid or too loosely on the other creates an uneven, lopsided look.
Solution: Maintain consistent tension throughout the braiding process by checking the tightness of both braids regularly.

2. Inconsistent Ribbon Width

Reason: Using ribbons of varying widths can lead to a messy and unprofessional final product.
Solution: Ensure you are using ribbons of the same width to maintain a consistent and neat braid.

3. Incorrect Starting Knot

Reason: A poorly tied starting knot can unravel easily or look clumsy.
Solution: Securely tie a double knot at the beginning to prevent unraveling and ensure a neat start.

FAQs

What types of ribbon are best for a double braided ribbon lay?
Ribbons with a similar weight and texture work best. Satin, grosgrain, and even some types of wired ribbon can be used, but avoid ribbons that are too stiff or too flimsy. Experiment to find your favorites!
How long should my ribbons be to achieve a specific length of braid?
A good rule of thumb is to cut your ribbons at least three times the desired length of the finished braid. This accounts for the braiding process which shortens the overall ribbon length.
What if my braid starts to unravel? How can I fix it?
Secure the ends of your braid with a strong knot or use fabric glue to prevent unraveling. You can also stitch the ends together for a more secure and polished look.