{"id":8635,"date":"2026-08-08T07:26:12","date_gmt":"2026-08-08T07:26:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/?p=8635"},"modified":"2026-08-08T07:26:15","modified_gmt":"2026-08-08T07:26:15","slug":"how-to-design-custom-medal-ribbons","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/how-to-design-custom-medal-ribbons\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Design Custom Medal Ribbons"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide vp-blog-layout has-medium-font-size is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-top-left-radius:58px;border-top-right-radius:58px;border-bottom-left-radius:58px;border-bottom-right-radius:58px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column vp-blog-toc-wrap is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:20%\">\n<style data-wp-block-html=\"css\">\n[data-vp-article-toc] a.vp-current {\n  color: #1f5eff !important;\n  font-weight: 700 !important;\n}\n\n[data-vp-article-toc] a.vp-current::before {\n  content: \"\";\n  display: inline-block;\n  width: 6px;\n  height: 6px;\n  margin-right: 7px;\n  border-radius: 50%;\n  background: #1f5eff;\n  vertical-align: middle;\n}\n\n#choose-the-ribbon-material,\n#picking-the-right-ribbon-width,\n#decide-what-goes-on-the-ribbon,\n#choose-the-ribbon-color-and-printing-method,\n#common-medal-ribbon-design-mistakes,\n#the-medal-and-ribbon-should-work-together {\n  scroll-margin-top: 130px;\n}\n<\/style>\n\n<script data-wp-block-html=\"js\">\n(function () {\n  function initVpTocSpy() {\n    var links = Array.prototype.slice.call(\n      document.querySelectorAll('[data-vp-article-toc] a[href^=\"#\"]')\n    );\n\n    if (!links.length) return;\n\n    var sections = [];\n    var added = {};\n\n    links.forEach(function (link) {\n      var id = link.getAttribute(\"href\").slice(1);\n      var target = document.getElementById(id);\n\n      if (target && !added[id]) {\n        sections.push({\n          id: id,\n          target: target\n        });\n        added[id] = true;\n      }\n    });\n\n    if (!sections.length) return;\n\n    var ticking = false;\n    var lastId = \"\";   \n\n    function getOffset() {\n      return Math.min(Math.max(window.innerHeight * 0.55, 220), 520);\n    }\n\n    function scrollTocItemIntoView(link) {\n      var tocBox = link.closest(\"[data-vp-article-toc]\");\n      if (!tocBox) return;\n\n      var scrollBox = tocBox;\n\n      if (tocBox.classList.contains(\"vp-toc-mobile\")) {\n        var nav = tocBox.querySelector(\"nav\");\n        if (nav) scrollBox = nav;\n      }\n\n      if (!scrollBox || scrollBox.scrollHeight <= scrollBox.clientHeight) return;\n\n      var linkTop = link.offsetTop;\n      var linkHeight = link.offsetHeight;\n      var boxHeight = scrollBox.clientHeight;\n\n      scrollBox.scrollTo({\n        top: linkTop - boxHeight \/ 2 + linkHeight \/ 2,\n        behavior: \"smooth\"\n      });\n    }\n\n    function updateActive() {\n      var scrollTop = window.pageYOffset || document.documentElement.scrollTop;\n      var currentId = sections[0].id;\n      var offset = getOffset();\n\n      sections.forEach(function (section) {\n        var top = section.target.getBoundingClientRect().top + scrollTop;\n\n        if (scrollTop + offset >= top) {\n          currentId = section.id;\n        }\n      });\n\n      links.forEach(function (link) {\n        link.classList.toggle(\n          \"vp-current\",\n          link.getAttribute(\"href\") === \"#\" + currentId\n        );\n      });\n\n      if (currentId !== lastId) {\n        links.forEach(function (link) {\n          if (link.getAttribute(\"href\") === \"#\" + currentId) {\n            scrollTocItemIntoView(link);\n          }\n        });\n\n        lastId = currentId;\n      }\n\n      ticking = false;\n    }\n\n    function onScroll() {\n      if (!ticking) {\n        window.requestAnimationFrame(updateActive);\n        ticking = true;\n      }\n    }\n\n    updateActive();\n    window.addEventListener(\"scroll\", onScroll, { passive: true });\n    window.addEventListener(\"resize\", updateActive);\n  }\n\n  if (document.readyState === \"loading\") {\n    document.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\", initVpTocSpy);\n  } else {\n    initVpTocSpy();\n  }\n})();\n<\/script>\n\n<!-- Desktop TOC -->\n<div class=\"vp-toc vp-toc-desktop\" data-vp-article-toc=\"\">\n  <div class=\"vp-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/div>\n\n  <nav aria-label=\"Table of Contents\">\n    <ul>\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#choose-the-ribbon-material\">Choose the Ribbon Material<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#picking-the-right-ribbon-width\">Picking the Right Ribbon Width<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#decide-what-goes-on-the-ribbon\">Decide What Goes on the Ribbon<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#choose-the-ribbon-color-and-printing-method\">Choose the Ribbon Color and Printing Method<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#common-medal-ribbon-design-mistakes\">Common Medal Ribbon Design Mistakes<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#the-medal-and-ribbon-should-work-together\">The Medal and Ribbon Should Work Together<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n    <\/ul>\n  <\/nav>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<!-- Mobile \/ Tablet TOC -->\n<details class=\"vp-toc vp-toc-mobile\" data-vp-article-toc=\"\">\n  <summary>Table of Contents<\/summary>\n\n  <nav aria-label=\"Mobile Table of Contents\">\n    <ul>\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#choose-the-ribbon-material\">Choose the Ribbon Material<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#picking-the-right-ribbon-width\">Picking the Right Ribbon Width<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#decide-what-goes-on-the-ribbon\">Decide What Goes on the Ribbon<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#choose-the-ribbon-color-and-printing-method\">Choose the Ribbon Color and Printing Method<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#common-medal-ribbon-design-mistakes\">Common Medal Ribbon Design Mistakes<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n\n      <li>\n        <a href=\"#the-medal-and-ribbon-should-work-together\">The Medal and Ribbon Should Work Together<\/a>\n      <\/li>\n    <\/ul>\n  <\/nav>\n<\/details>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"546\" src=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/How-to-Design-Custom-Medal-Ribbons-1024x546.webp\" alt=\"How to Design Custom Medal Ribbons\" class=\"wp-image-8645\" srcset=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/How-to-Design-Custom-Medal-Ribbons-1024x546.webp 1024w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/How-to-Design-Custom-Medal-Ribbons-300x160.webp 300w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/How-to-Design-Custom-Medal-Ribbons-768x409.webp 768w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/How-to-Design-Custom-Medal-Ribbons-1536x819.webp 1536w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/How-to-Design-Custom-Medal-Ribbons-2048x1092.webp 2048w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/How-to-Design-Custom-Medal-Ribbons-600x320.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A custom medal ribbon does more than simply hold the medal around someone\u2019s neck. It plays a big part in how the finished medal looks and feels, while also giving your event name, logo, or sponsors more visibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The wrong ribbon can make even a great medal feel off. The right one helps the whole award look more balanced and complete.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this guide, we\u2019ll walk you through the process from ribbon design to choosing the right style for <a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-medal-types-and-materials\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"8595\">different types of medals<\/a>, so you can create a combination that looks right and works well for your event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"choose-the-ribbon-material\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Choose the Ribbon Material<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most medal ribbons are made from <strong>polyester<\/strong>. It\u2019s durable, prints well, and works for just about any standard event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What you\u2019ll usually need to choose is the finish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Choose-the-Ribbon-Material-1024x576.webp\" alt=\"Choose the Ribbon Material\" class=\"wp-image-8646\" srcset=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Choose-the-Ribbon-Material-1024x576.webp 1024w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Choose-the-Ribbon-Material-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Choose-the-Ribbon-Material-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Choose-the-Ribbon-Material-1536x864.webp 1536w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Choose-the-Ribbon-Material-600x338.webp 600w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Choose-the-Ribbon-Material.webp 1672w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Satin<\/strong> has a smooth surface with a slight sheen. It works well for multicolor logos, gradients, and full-color designs, which is why you\u2019ll often see it on marathon, 5K, and 10K medals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Grosgrain<\/strong> has a more noticeable ribbed texture and a matte look. It\u2019s a good fit for simpler designs with an event name, school logo, or basic text.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Nylon<\/strong> is another option and is known for its strength, but it\u2019s less common than polyester for standard event medals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Choose satin for a smoother, more colorful look, or grosgrain for something simpler and more traditional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"picking-the-right-ribbon-width\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Picking the Right Ribbon Width<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you\u2019ve chosen the material and finish, decide on the width. It affects both comfort and how balanced the medal feels when worn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ribbon-Width-1024x576.webp\" alt=\"Ribbon Width\" class=\"wp-image-8647\" srcset=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ribbon-Width-1024x576.webp 1024w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ribbon-Width-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ribbon-Width-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ribbon-Width-1536x864.webp 1536w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ribbon-Width-600x338.webp 600w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ribbon-Width.webp 1672w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For most <a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-medal\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-medal\/\">custom medals<\/a>, <strong>25mm (1&#8243;)<\/strong> and <strong>38mm (1.5&#8243;)<\/strong> are the most common choices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>25mm (1&#8243;)<\/strong> works well for simple designs with a repeated event name or logo. It keeps the look clean without taking attention away from the medal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>38mm (1.5&#8243;)<\/strong> gives you more room for event names, logos, dates, or sponsor branding. It also tends to look better with larger or heavier medals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can also use the medal size as a starting point:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<style data-wp-block-html=\"css\">\n.medal-ribbon-table-wrap {\n  width: 100%;\n  margin: 28px 0;\n  overflow-x: auto;\n  background: #ffffff;\n  border: 1px solid #f2d8df;\n  border-radius: 14px;\n  box-shadow: 0 5px 18px rgba(80, 35, 50, 0.06);\n}\n\n.medal-ribbon-table {\n  width: 100%;\n  border-collapse: collapse;\n  border-spacing: 0;\n  font-size: 16px;\n  color: #333333;\n  background: #ffffff;\n}\n\n.medal-ribbon-table thead {\n  background: #f8e7ec;\n}\n\n.medal-ribbon-table th {\n  padding: 17px 20px;\n  text-align: left;\n  font-size: 15px;\n  font-weight: 700;\n  color: #4b3038;\n  border: none;\n}\n\n.medal-ribbon-table th:first-child {\n  border-radius: 13px 0 0 0;\n}\n\n.medal-ribbon-table th:last-child {\n  border-radius: 0 13px 0 0;\n}\n\n.medal-ribbon-table td {\n  padding: 17px 20px;\n  line-height: 1.5;\n  vertical-align: middle;\n  border: none;\n  border-bottom: 1px solid #f3e7ea;\n}\n\n.medal-ribbon-table tbody tr:last-child td {\n  border-bottom: none;\n}\n\n.medal-ribbon-table tbody tr {\n  transition: background-color 0.2s ease;\n}\n\n.medal-ribbon-table tbody tr:hover {\n  background: #fff8fa;\n}\n\n.medal-ribbon-table th:last-child,\n.medal-ribbon-table td:last-child {\n  width: 34%;\n  text-align: center;\n}\n\n.ribbon-size {\n  display: inline-block;\n  min-width: 92px;\n  padding: 6px 12px;\n  background: #f9edf1;\n  border: 1px solid #efd7de;\n  border-radius: 20px;\n  font-weight: 600;\n  color: #7b4353;\n  white-space: nowrap;\n}\n\n\/* Mobile *\/\n@media (max-width: 600px) {\n  .medal-ribbon-table {\n    font-size: 14px;\n  }\n\n  .medal-ribbon-table th,\n  .medal-ribbon-table td {\n    padding: 14px 12px;\n  }\n\n  .medal-ribbon-table th:last-child,\n  .medal-ribbon-table td:last-child {\n    width: 38%;\n  }\n\n  .ribbon-size {\n    min-width: auto;\n    padding: 5px 9px;\n    font-size: 13px;\n  }\n}\n<\/style>\n\n<div class=\"medal-ribbon-table-wrap\">\n  <table class=\"medal-ribbon-table\">\n    <thead>\n      <tr>\n        <th>Medal Type<\/th>\n        <th>Recommended Ribbon Width<\/th>\n      <\/tr>\n    <\/thead>\n\n    <tbody>\n      <tr>\n        <td>Small school or kids\u2019 medals<\/td>\n        <td><span class=\"ribbon-size\">0.75&#8243;\u20131&#8243;<\/span><\/td>\n      <\/tr>\n\n      <tr>\n        <td>Standard medals around 2&#8243;<\/td>\n        <td><span class=\"ribbon-size\">1&#8243;<\/span><\/td>\n      <\/tr>\n\n      <tr>\n        <td>2.5&#8243;\u20133&#8243; event medals<\/td>\n        <td><span class=\"ribbon-size\">1&#8243;\u20131.25&#8243;<\/span><\/td>\n      <\/tr>\n\n      <tr>\n        <td>Large medals over 3&#8243;<\/td>\n        <td><span class=\"ribbon-size\">1.25&#8243;\u20131.5&#8243;<\/span><\/td>\n      <\/tr>\n\n      <tr>\n        <td>Heavy medals or designs with more branding<\/td>\n        <td><span class=\"ribbon-size\">1.5&#8243;<\/span><\/td>\n      <\/tr>\n    <\/tbody>\n  <\/table>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re not sure, <strong>1&#8243; is a good starting point for most medals<\/strong>. Move up to 1.25&#8243; or 1.5&#8243; for larger medals or when you need more space for branding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Decide What Goes on the Ribbon<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ribbon space is limited, so keep the focus on what people actually need to see. For most events, the event name and logo are enough. If sponsors need to be included, add only the main ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Decide-What-Goes-on-the-Ribbon-1024x768.webp\" alt=\"Decide What Goes on the Ribbon\" class=\"wp-image-8637\" srcset=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Decide-What-Goes-on-the-Ribbon-1024x768.webp 1024w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Decide-What-Goes-on-the-Ribbon-300x225.webp 300w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Decide-What-Goes-on-the-Ribbon-768x576.webp 768w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Decide-What-Goes-on-the-Ribbon-600x450.webp 600w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Decide-What-Goes-on-the-Ribbon.webp 1448w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Event Name<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep the event name short whenever possible. For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>2026 Charity 5K<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>State Championship<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Annual Marathon<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Long names usually have to be printed smaller, which makes them harder to read once the medal is being worn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Repeat the Main Design<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead of placing the main artwork in just one spot, repeat it along the ribbon so it stays visible from different angles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Event Name \u2192 Icon \u2192 Event Name \u2192 Icon<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This works especially well for races, school events, and tournaments where the ribbon may twist or shift while being worn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sponsor Logos<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you have one or two main sponsors, work them into the layout without crowding the ribbon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Event Logo \u2192 Sponsor A \u2192 Event Name \u2192 Sponsor B<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Avoid shrinking several sponsor logos just to fit them all. If there are too many, keep the main sponsors on the ribbon and move the rest to the back of the medal or other event materials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Date, Distance, and Location<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can also add details such as the year, race distance, or city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2026 \u00b7 Half Marathon \u00b7 Chicago, IL<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These should stay secondary. If the ribbon already includes the event name and branding, there\u2019s usually no need to add the date, distance, city, and a long tagline all at once.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Choose the Ribbon Color and Printing Method<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Printing-Method-1024x576.webp\" alt=\"Printing Method\" class=\"wp-image-8649\" srcset=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Printing-Method-1024x576.webp 1024w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Printing-Method-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Printing-Method-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Printing-Method-1536x864.webp 1536w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Printing-Method-600x338.webp 600w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Printing-Method.webp 1672w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The printing method mostly comes down to how detailed your design is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Dye sublimation<\/strong> works well for designs with multiple colors, gradients, detailed artwork, or several logos. It also lets you print across the full ribbon instead of being limited to a small area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Screen printing<\/strong> is a better fit for simpler designs, such as an event name, school logo, or artwork using just one or two colors on a solid ribbon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you don\u2019t need any printing at all, a <strong>solid-color ribbon<\/strong> works just fine. It\u2019s commonly used for school competitions, award ceremonies, and gold, silver, or bronze medals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For color, start with what your event already uses. School colors, team colors, brand colors, or the event\u2019s main color are usually the easiest choices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Just make sure there\u2019s enough contrast between the ribbon and the print. Light text shows up better on a dark ribbon, while dark text works better on a light one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the medal already has a lot of color, keep the ribbon simple. If the medal is mostly gold, silver, or bronze, the ribbon can carry more of the event color.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Medal Ribbon Design Mistakes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Too much content.<\/strong> If the text and logos have to be shrunk just to make everything fit, there\u2019s too much on the ribbon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Making the logo too small.<\/strong> A logo may look fine when you zoom in on the artwork, but that doesn\u2019t mean it will be clear once printed. Fine lines, small text, and detailed logos are especially easy to lose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Designing the ribbon separately from the medal.<\/strong> A good medal and a good ribbon can still look wrong together. Check the colors, proportions, and overall look as one complete award.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Adding sponsors at the last minute.<\/strong> This happens a lot with event orders. Decide early which sponsor logos need to be included so you don\u2019t have to shrink everything later just to make them fit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Medal and Ribbon Should Work Together<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/The-Medal-and-Ribbon-Should-Work-Together-1024x576.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8648\" srcset=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/The-Medal-and-Ribbon-Should-Work-Together-1024x576.webp 1024w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/The-Medal-and-Ribbon-Should-Work-Together-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/The-Medal-and-Ribbon-Should-Work-Together-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/The-Medal-and-Ribbon-Should-Work-Together-1536x864.webp 1536w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/The-Medal-and-Ribbon-Should-Work-Together-600x338.webp 600w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/The-Medal-and-Ribbon-Should-Work-Together.webp 1672w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">VeperPins doesn\u2019t sell ribbons separately. We match them as part of our custom medal service, based on the medal itself and what you need for the event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Send us your artwork or idea, and whether you already know <a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/how-to-design-a-standout-medal-the-ultimate-guide\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"8567\">how to design medals<\/a> or need help getting started, we\u2019ll recommend a ribbon that fits the finished medal.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column vp-blog-sidebar-wrap is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:344px\">\n<aside class=\"vp-sidebar\" aria-label=\"Article Sidebar\">\n  <section class=\"vp-side-box vp-side-cta\">\n    <h3>Need a Custom Quote?<\/h3>\n    <p>\n      Get factory-direct pricing, free design support, and fast production for custom promotional products.\n    <\/p>\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/get-quote\/\" class=\"vp-side-btn\">Get Free Quote<\/a>\n  <\/section>\n\n  <section class=\"vp-side-box\">\n    <h3>Why Work With Us<\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"vp-side-list\">\n      <li>Low Minimum Order Quantity<\/li>\n      <li>Free Artwork Support<\/li>\n      <li>Fast Turnaround<\/li>\n      <li>Worldwide Shipping<\/li>\n    <\/ul>\n  <\/section>\n\n  <section class=\"vp-side-box\">\n    <h3>View Pricing<\/h3>\n    <div class=\"vp-side-tags\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-pins-pricing\/\">Custom Pins Pricing<\/a>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-coins-pricing\/\">Challenge Coins Pricing<\/a>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-medals-pricing\/\">Medals Pricing<\/a>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-keychains-pricing\/\">Keychains Pricing<\/a>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-patches-pricing\/\">Patches Pricing<\/a>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/section>\n\n  <section class=\"vp-side-box\">\n    <h3>Share This Article<\/h3>\n    <div class=\"vp-side-share\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https:\/\/veperpins.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Facebook<\/a>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?url=https:\/\/veperpins.com\/&#038;text=Check%20this%20out\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">X<\/a>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/sharing\/share-offsite\/?url=https:\/\/veperpins.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">LinkedIn<\/a>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/section>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Table of Contents Choose the Ribbon Material Picking the Right Ribbon Width Decide What Goes on the Ribbon Choose the Ribbon Color and Printing Method Common Medal Ribbon Design Mistakes The Medal and Ribbon Should Work Together Table of Contents Choose the Ribbon Material Picking the Right Ribbon Width Decide What Goes on the Ribbon&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":8645,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_kadence_starter_templates_imported_post":false,"_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"_kad_post_classname":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[61],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-8635","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-medals-guide"],"taxonomy_info":{"category":[{"value":61,"label":"Medals Guide"}]},"featured_image_src_large":["https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/How-to-Design-Custom-Medal-Ribbons-1024x546.webp",1024,546,true],"author_info":{"display_name":"Shirya","author_link":"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/author\/boom\/"},"comment_info":0,"category_info":[{"term_id":61,"name":"Medals Guide","slug":"medals-guide","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":61,"taxonomy":"category","description":"Explore custom medals including design ideas, materials, finishes, and production methods. Perfect for sports events, competitions, and awards.","parent":0,"count":9,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":61,"category_count":9,"category_description":"Explore custom medals including design ideas, materials, finishes, and production methods. 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