[header] How to gather fabric into ruffles [title] Thread a needle with a thread that is at least one foot longer than the length you need to gather down to. [step] For example, if you need to gather a length of ribbon to 8 inches (20. 3 cm) long, you will need at least 20 inches (50. 8 cm) of thread. Tie a knot on the end of your thread. 
[title] Hold thread firmly and gently slide cloth along the thread to gather it. [step] Sew 3-4 mm (1/4 inch) running stitches along the edge to be gathered.