What is reflective ribbon? How do you use it?
Reflective Ribbon is a companion yarn that is retro-reflective.
Reto-reflective means that it shines back directly at the light source without refracting off at an angle. It is made from the same material that is used for traffic safety vests. The material is a film with tiny glass beads glued on both sides which cause the light reflection. The ribbon is made by cutting thin slices of the fabric. The widths made are 1/69″, 1/50″, 1/32″, and 1/23″. The 1/69″ is the thinnest and bends easiest. The 1/23″ is the widest and takes a bit more room to turn. All are reflective on both sides and so are reflective regardless of how they twist and turn as you are working with them.
Reflective Ribbon works best as a companion yarn. This means that we recommend carrying this along with another, regular fiber yarn. The main yarn will form the structure of whatever you are making. The Reflective Robbon, then, adds a slight weight/thickness to your regular yarn, and if it breaks your item is still intact.
Use Reflective Ribbon for anything you or your loved ones are going to wear outside in dim light. Hats, mitts, scarves, capes. All of these will help you be visible to passing cars.