When customers order custom medals, they often ask which ribbon they should choose. The answer depends on the medal size, the event, and the artwork. In this guide, I will explain how to choose the right ribbon width, material, printing, and attachment for your medals.
1. How to Choose the Right Medal Ribbon
There are two main ribbon options for custom medals: heat-transfer printed ribbon and plain ribbon.
Heat-transfer printed ribbon is a good choice when the artwork includes several colors, gradients, detailed logos, or a full event design. It allows the ribbon to carry the same visual style as the medal, which is why it is often used for races, school competitions, and branded events.
Plain ribbon is simpler. It is usually chosen in one solid color to match the medal or the event theme. If the medal already has a detailed design, a plain ribbon can keep the finished award looking clean and balanced.
2. Choose the Right Ribbon Width and Length
For custom medals, the two standard ribbon sizes we normally use are 900 × 25 mm and 900 × 38 mm. After the ribbon is folded through the medal, the finished length is about 450 mm, with either a 25 mm or 38 mm width.
We also offer 900 × 20 mm and 900 × 45 mm ribbons, although 900 × 25 mm and 900 × 38 mm are the sizes customers choose most often. Ribbon length can also be customized when an event has a specific requirement.
A 25 mm ribbon works well for most standard medals, especially smaller or lighter designs. For larger medals, or designs with a stronger visual presence, a 38 mm ribbon usually looks more balanced and gives the medal a more substantial feel.
If the medal is for children, we can make the ribbon shorter. If it is for a special presentation or display rather than normal wear, the length can also be adjusted to suit that purpose.
3. Choose the Right Ribbon Material and Printing Method
Most custom medal ribbons are made from polyester. The main choice is whether you need a plain ribbon, a simple printed design, or full-color artwork.
Plain Polyester Ribbon for Simple Event Designs
Plain polyester ribbon is a good choice when the medal already has a detailed design. Customers usually choose one solid color that matches the event theme, school colors, or the medal plating. It keeps the finished medal clean and is often used for simple award programs.
Screen Printing or Heat-Transfer for Simple Logos and Text
For a simple logo, event name, or short slogan, both screen printing and heat-transfer printing are suitable. We normally check the number of colors and the full ribbon layout before recommending one. The important thing is to keep the text large enough to read when the ribbon is worn around the neck.
Dye-Sublimation Printing for Full-Color Artwork
For gradients, multiple colors, detailed logos, or a full event pattern, heat-transfer printing is the better choice. It can reproduce more detail than screen printing and gives the ribbon the same visual style as the medal artwork.
4. Make Sure the Ribbon Fits the Medal
Match the Attachment to the Medal Loop or Top Slot
There are two main ways to attach a ribbon to a medal. The first uses a straight ribbon sewn into a V shape. A small jump ring connects the point of the V to the medal.
The second uses a medal with a ribbon slot at the top. The ribbon passes directly through the slot, so no extra connector is needed. When we prepare the medal artwork, we adjust the slot size to match the selected ribbon and confirm the medal and ribbon widths together.
Decide Whether the Ribbon Should Be Pre-Assembled
You can order the ribbons attached to the medals or packed separately. For races, school events, and other large award programs, many customers choose pre-assembled medals because they can hand them out straight away. If your team plans to assemble the medals itself, packed-separately ribbons are also available.
5. Keep the Ribbon Design Clear
Use Event Colors and Repeating Artwork Carefully
A ribbon has limited space, so a simple repeating layout usually works best. Many customers repeat the event logo, event name, or a short pattern along the ribbon. Use the same main colors as the medal or event branding so the whole award looks connected.
Avoid Small Text and Confirm Print Direction
Small text is easy to lose on a narrow ribbon. Keep the wording short and make the logo large enough to recognize. The print direction also needs to be confirmed before production. When the medal is worn, the logo and text should face the right way instead of appearing upside down or sideways.
6. Conclusion
A medal ribbon should be chosen as part of the medal design, not as an afterthought. Confirm the ribbon type, width, length, printing, and attachment at the same time as the medal artwork. This helps the finished medal look balanced, wear comfortably, and arrive ready for your event.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
What Ribbon Width Is Best for a Custom Medal?
Use 25 mm for most standard medals and choose 38 mm when the medal is larger or needs a stronger visual presence.
Can a Medal Ribbon Be Printed on Both Sides?
Yes, but provide the artwork for each side and confirm the print direction before production.
What Is the Best Printing Method for a Full-Color Medal Ribbon?
Heat-transfer printing is the best choice for full-color artwork, gradients, and detailed logos.
Can You Order Medals With Ribbons Already Attached?
Yes, order pre-assembled medals when you want them ready to hand out at your event.
