The art of ribbon making

In the North West of England, a traditional ribbon weaving company is putting on a show.

This is where the ribbons from a gifting favourite like Hello Gorgeous are born. The yarns for these ribbons are made from PET (polyethylene terephthalate) from recycled bottles.

This is now one of the last ribbon manufacturers in the UK. The business was set up in 1858 by a local family, and continues to thrive despite the declining industry in the region. As one of the largest employers in the local area, some members of staff have worked for the company for over thirty years. Multiple generations of the same families make up the workforce, working side by side. New blood will soon be coming into the business, as a new apprenticeship scheme is being launched.

A finishing touch on a gift, an extra bit of flair, something to tie up loose ends. But for some, there’s more to a ribbon than decoration - it’s a way of life.