HOW TO MAKE RIBBONS AND STREAMERS
For adult size ribbons purchase 6yds (5.5m) of 2inch (5 cm) wide ribbon
For child size ribbons purchase 3 & 3/4 yds (3.5m) of 1.5inch (3.5cm) wide ribbon
The ribbons are attached to the baton with a split ring, obtainable from craft shops.
This also enables the removal of the ribbon for washing.
Thread the ribbon through the split ring for 36 inches (90cm) for the adult size, or
24 inches (60cm) for the child size.
Pin the two layers of ribbon together and machine both long edges, the end of the ribbon (turning the raw edge under), and across the top about 1.5 inches (3.5cm) from the split ring.
Stitch a hem on the other raw end of the ribbon. A small amount of clear glue or
nail varnish on each corner helps to prevent fraying.
MAKING BATONS
These are my "homemade" variety, if you can obtain readymade fibreglass batons
they are better as they have some "spring" in them. The homemade ones are useful
as a starter, or if you need a lot for a group of children. Use 3/8th nch (9mm)
wooden doweling available from D.I.Y. shops. These usually come in 8ft (2.4m)
lengths. Saw into 16 inch (40cm) lengths. Rub the cut ends with sandpaper to avoid
damage to hands or ribbons.
Use a fishing swivel (this enables the ribbon to turn without getting twisted or
tangled), and a net curtain hook. Place one end of the swivel onto the hook and hit
the end of the hook with a hammer, until the gap is closed.
Screw the hook onto one end of the piece of dowel. A small amount of superglue
on the screw thread prevents it from coming out.
The split ring on the ribbon threads onto the other end of the fishing swivel.
MAKING STREAMERS
Use lightweight fabric that is the same on both sides.
Can be all one colour, or made of sections of different colours.
Cut fabric for streamer approximately 9 inches (23cm) wide. The length needs to
be about 3 yards (2.7m), which can be one piece or done in sections.
Join sections together neatly and securely :-
machine wrong sides together, press seam open, trim one side of the seam
allowance, and fold the other side round it. Machine on right side close to fold.
Taper one end of the streamer into a point.
Neaten the edges of the streamer by overlocking, or double turned hem.
Cut a square piece of iron-on interfacing just narrower the width of the streamer.
Iron this on at the top straight edge.
Fold the top corners down and into the centre, to create a point at the top of the
streamer. Pin into place
Cut a piece of boning the width of the streamer. Stitch across top of streamer
covering the folded in edges.
Put an eyelet into the top point, and use a split ring to join to a baton.
