Embroider a Silk Ribbon Carnation Bouquet

Create a delicate carnation bouquet using soft 4mm silk ribbon and simple hand embroidery techniques. This project is beginner friendly but gives a beautiful dimensional result that looks far more advanced than it is.

Perfect for framed hoop art, wedding keepsakes, or adding a romantic touch to linen napkins or gift bags.

What You’ll Need

• Linen fabric
• Cotton embroidery floss in green (for stems)
• 4mm silk ribbon for flowers and bow
  
• Embroidery needles
• Silk ribbon needles
• Embroidery scissors
• Embroidery hoop

Step 1: Prepare Your Fabric

Place your linen fabric in an embroidery hoop and tighten it so the fabric is smooth and taut.

Lightly sketch the bouquet shape with a heat erasable fabric pen. Mark where you want the carnation heads and how the stems will gather toward the base.

Step 2: Create the Carnation Flowers

Cut short lengths of 4mm silk ribbon.

Using a single strand of matching embroidery floss, sew a running stitch down the center length of the ribbon.

Pull the thread gently to gather the ribbon. As you pull, the ribbon forms into a soft, ruffled carnation shape.

Step 3: Secure the Flowers

Position the gathered ribbon flower onto your marked fabric.

Use small stitches through the silk layers and into the linen to secure the flower in place. Add a few anchoring stitches to help the carnation keep its ruffled, full appearance.

Repeat for each flower head in your bouquet.

Step 4: Stitch the Leaves and Stems

Use green embroidery floss to stitch simple straight stitches for the stems, gathering them toward the base of the bouquet.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch

Complete the bouquet by stitching a small silk ribbon bow at the base where the stems meet.

Adjust the loops gently so they sit softly against the fabric.

Final Thoughts

Silk ribbon embroidery adds beautiful texture and movement to traditional hand stitching. This carnation bouquet works wonderfully as framed hoop art, bridal decor, or a heartfelt handmade gift.

Try experimenting with soft pastels for a spring bouquet or rich jewel tones for a dramatic version.