Grosgrain vs Petersham Ribbon: Key Differences Explained

Grosgrain and Petersham ribbons look similar at first glance — both have a distinctive ribbed texture and a matte finish. However, they differ in edge construction, flexibility and ideal uses. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right ribbon for sewing, millinery, garment trims or crafts.

Here’s a clear breakdown of how they compare.

Construction and Edges

Grosgrain ribbon is woven with prominent transverse ribs (raised lines running across the width). It has straight, sealed or tightly woven edges. The heavier weft yarns create a firm, structured ribbon that holds its shape well.

Petersham ribbon also features a ribbed weave, but its defining feature is the scalloped (wavy or picot-style) edge along both sides. These scalloped edges are woven as part of the ribbon rather than cut or sealed afterwards. This construction gives Petersham greater flexibility and allows it to be shaped more easily.

Local vs International Petersham

Internationally woven Petersham typically features a more pronounced, open scalloped edge. In contrast, the version woven in South Africa uses a tighter weave while retaining the same characteristic looped structure. This tighter construction produces a smoother, more refined edge on both sides, yet it still delivers the essential Petersham qualities — flexibility, the ability to be shaped and steamed around curves, and resistance to puckering.

Appearance

Grosgrain has a crisp, slightly sporty or casual look thanks to its straight edges and pronounced ribs. It appears more structured and is often chosen for a clean, tailored finish. Grosgrain in South Africa is mainly an imported product and not locally woven.
Petersham looks softer and more elegant. The gentle scalloped edges create a flowing appearance and can be pressed or steamed into smooth curves without puckering.

Flexibility and Handling

This is where the biggest practical difference lies:

Petersham is more flexible and drapable. It can be gently stretched, steamed or moulded to follow curves (similar to bias tape). This makes it ideal for projects that need the ribbon to bend smoothly around shapes.
Grosgrain is stiffer and more rigid. It resists curving and is better suited to straight applications where stability and structure are important.

Best Uses

Choose Petersham ribbon for:

Millinery and hat making (especially brim binding and curved hatbands)
Garment construction (waistbands, curved trims, binding on stays or collars)
Projects that require the ribbon to follow a shape without wrinkling
Elegant decorative trims that need a soft, shaped finish

Choose Grosgrain ribbon for:

Hair accessories, bows and structured decorations
Belts, key fobs and reinforcement in sewing
Straight-edge trims, waistbands that need firmness
Crafts and packaging where a sturdy, ribbed look is preferred

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Grosgrain Ribbon	Petersham Ribbon
Edges	Straight / sealed	Scalloped (wavy)
Texture	Pronounced ribs, firmer	Ribbed but more flexible
Flexibility	Stiffer, holds shape	Soft, can be shaped and curved
Appearance	Crisp, structured, casual-sporty	Softer, elegant, flowing
Best for	Straight trims, bows, reinforcement	Curves, hats, shaped garment trims
Shaping ability	Limited (may pucker on curves)	Excellent (steams and moulds well)

Summary

Both ribbons share a ribbed construction, but the scalloped edges and greater flexibility of Petersham make it the preferred choice when the ribbon needs to follow a curve. Grosgrain offers more structure and is better for straight, stable applications. At Ribbon Place we stock a variety of Petersham ribbons suitable for sewing, millinery and garment work.