DIY Network

Ribbon Switch Plate From "Embellish This!" episode DEMB-211

In this first segment of "Home Decorating II," host Dena Fishbein takes a simple switch plate and turns it into something completely sensational.

The Materials list and step-by-step instructions are below.

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Host Dena Fishbein shows you how to spruce up a simple switch plate.

Materials --

Plastic switch plate
Variety of ribbons of different widths:

• 1" pink grosgrain with white polka dots
  
• 3/8" two-tone pink grosgrain with green polka dots
  
• 1/2" madras plaid wire edge ribbon
  
• 5/8" grosgrain in shade of green and yellow
  
• 1-1/2" sheer pink ribbon with green, orange, red and yellow accents
  
• 3/8" grosgrain green with pink polka dots

O' So Sticky Paperbacked Tape
Scissors
Fray Check
Purchased ribbon rosette flower
Fabri-Tac
Craft knife
Small scissors
Cutting board

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

Ribbon Switch Plate

1. The first step is to make a template. Place the switch plate on top of the O' So Sticky Paper Backed Tape and cut around it with a sharp pair of scissors, leaving about 1/4" all the way around. After you have cut it out, peel the tape apart (it is very sticky) and place the switch plate onto the tape (figure A).

2. Cut all ribbons 1/2" longer on both ends. Make sure when you audition the ribbons that you have enough to fill up the switch plate from top to bottom.

3. Adhere the ribbons all the way down the switch plate one at a time, pressing the ribbons into the adhesive. Leave 1/4" ribbon on each side (figure B).

4. Turn the switch plate over and peel off the other side of the paper on the adhesive. (The backing protects the adhesive while you a placing the ribbons on the plate.)

5. Take the extra 1/4" sticky tape and wrap it around the edges of the plate on the back side. Miter the tape corners for a clean look.

6. Once all the ribbons are applied, trim the edges and then fold under the plate (figure C).

7. Turn the switch plate over and use a craft knife to cut an "X" in the opening for the switch. Fold under. Since the tape is applied to the back of the ribbon, this piece will stick to the back of the switch plate.

8. Working on the front side, use the craft knife to cut the openings for the screws.

9. To prevent the fabric from running, apply Fray Check to the holes where the screws will go.

10. For the final embellishment and to add a little extra detail, glue a rosette to the top middle of the plate (figure D) with some Fabri-Tac.

RESOURCES :

Dritz Fray Check (Model #: 674)
No fray seam sealant
Prym Consumer USA Inc.
Website: www.dritz.com

Beacon's Fabri-Tac Glue
Website: www.beaconcreates.com

O' So Sticky Paper Backed Tape
Website: www.pennywisearts.com