Ribbons

Badge ribbons are small pieces of imprinted ribbon that attach with an adhesive strip to the bottom of your membership badge or to the bottom of the next ribbon in the chain. They are a tradition at many science fiction conventions, particularly on the East and West coasts of the USA, and have recently found their way to CONvergence.

About Badge Ribbons

Badge ribbons are a fun way to add your own unique flair to your convention experience, but they are not a requirement for enjoying CONvergence.

Most badge ribbons are created by members outside of the convention for cost, but distributed for free. Badge ribbons come in a wide range of styles and colors and it’s entirely upon the individual to create and distribute their own badge ribbons. Ribbon distribution tends to be open and available to anyone (sometimes with caveats such as speaking a certain phrase or wearing a certain costume), and generally not for any compensation.

Ribbon Etiquette

Here are some tips for making the most out of collecting and distributing ribbons at CONvergence!

If you see someone freely handing out ribbons, it’s okay to approach them and ask, “May I please have a ribbon?”
Some people hand out ribbons as part of a game. It’s okay to ask them how to get one of their ribbons, but it is rude to ask for a ribbon without playing their game.
If someone declines to give you one of their ribbons for whatever reason, just accept their decision politely.
When someone quietly palms a ribbon to another person or otherwise engages in a behavior suggesting they are being secretive, it’s rude to ask them for a ribbon. The individual could be low on ribbons, or they may have made a ribbon that is specifically given to only their friends.
It is rude to randomly walk up to strangers and ask, “Do you have a ribbon?” Remember, ribbons cost money to print and not everyone who has ribbons is going to want to give them out freely to just anybody.
The best way to get ribbons is to offer your own ribbons for trade. For example, if you see someone with ribbons but they are not giving them to everybody, it’s okay to ask, “Are your ribbons available for trading?”
Ways to decline ribbon requests include “I’m sorry, but this ribbon was specifically made to give to my friends.” And, “I’m sorry, I only give this ribbon to people who speak a password.” Above all, remember to be polite!

What to Print on Ribbons

The sky is the limit when it comes to printing ribbons! Many ribbons feature quotes from TV shows, movies, games or books, while others are silly memes or inside jokes. Some fan groups or businesses use ribbons to advertise their club, their website or events. Many costumers even print ribbons to accompany their costumes! There is no right or wrong when it comes to printing badge ribbons.

Ordering Ribbons

Here is a short list of vendors from whom you can order badge ribbons. CONvergence does not officially endorse any of these ribbon vendors.

Be sure to place your order early enough to allow for production and shipping!

Ribbon Size

CONvergence badges are horizontally aligned and 4″ wide. Most people order ribbons that are 4″ wide, but the height can vary.

Official CONvergence Ribbons

CONvergence does produce some official ribbons for use in certain circumstances. This can vary from year to year. Often you can get ribbons by volunteering.