Get ready for the sparkle stage of the season. With 15 days to go, it’s all about quick wins: Christmas wrapping ideas that look luxe in minutes, outfit glow-ups using trims, and tiny touches that transform your home. Velvet bows, jacquard belts, appliqué magic — these easy festive fixes turn “last-minute” into “How did you DO that?”

If you watched the first episode of The Great British Sewing Bee Series 11 and muttered, “Why would you use that ribbon?” – welcome, friend. You’re in good company. Not all ribbons are cut out for the job. If you’re sewing something that’s going to be tied, tugged, or worn all day, you need to choose your ribbon like you’d choose your shoes – for looks and for function.