How to make memorial ribbons for funerals
Here's a step-by-step guide to making memorial ribbons for funerals. Explore materials, wording ideas and thoughtful ways to personalise them.
Memorial ribbons are a small but meaningful way to remember a person who has died. They can be worn during a funeral or celebration of life, tied to flowers, placed on tables or kept afterwards as a personal keepsake.
Creating one by hand can feel thoughtful and personal, and it allows everyone involved to contribute in their own way.
This guide explains how to make memorial ribbons step by step, using simple materials you may already have at home.
What are memorial ribbons?
Memorial ribbons are decorative strips of fabric or ribbon used to honour a person who has died. They often include:
- The person's name
- Important dates
- A short message or tribute
- A symbol or colour with personal meaning
They may be worn by people at the funeral, tied onto floral tributes or displayed during the service.
What you'll need?
Most memorial ribbons require only a few basic craft supplies.
Materials
- Ribbon
- Fabric scissors
- Safety pins
- Fabric glue or needle and thread
- Fine-tip fabric pen
Optional extras
- Small charms or beads
- Artificial flowers or greenery
- Iron-on lettering
- Printed labels or transfers
Making a memorial ribbon
Step one: choose the ribbon colour
Colour can carry meaning, but it doesn't have to follow any rules. It could be:
- White for remembrance
- The favourite colour of the person who died
- Colours to represent a country, culture or faith
- Sports team colours
Step two: cut the ribbon
Cut each ribbon to a length between 15cm and 20cm.
You can finish the ends in different ways:
- Straight cut for simplicity
- Diagonal cut for a traditional look
- V-shaped "forked" ends for a decorative finish
If the ribbon frays easily, you can lightly seal the edge with fabric glue or fold and stitch the ends.
Step three: add wording or decoration
This is where the ribbon becomes personal. Some ideas for what to write include:
- The person's name, or their nickname or pet name
- A meaningful date
A short phrase such as "In loving memory"
Write using a fabric pen, or attach printed lettering if you prefer.
Some people might also wish to add small cultural or faith symbols, or hearts.
Step four: shape the ribbon
Fold the ribbon into a loop.
Secure it at the crossing point using a few stitches, fabric glue or a small decorative pin.
Attach a safety pin to the back so it can be worn comfortably.
A gentle finishing touch
Memorial ribbons can be shared in many ways.
They can be given to mourners as they arrive at the funeral, placed on seats or attached to floral tributes.
Handmade memorial items often become keepsakes. After the funeral, a ribbon can be placed in a small home tribute, a scrapbook or a photo album.
Small details can make a ceremony feel more personal, and sometimes the simplest handmade gesture can be the most meaningful.
Akshardham Funeral Directors has helped families plan fitting, affordable funerals in London for many years. If you need our support, please reach out whenever you're ready. Our phone number is 020 8355 7876, and our lines are open 24/7.
