Free Printable 1st 2nd 3rd Place Ribbons – Looking for free printable 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place ribbons? These simple paper awards work great for school contests, sports days, science fairs, family game nights, classroom incentives, or kids’ parties across the USA. You can print them at home on regular letter-size paper or cardstock, cut them out, and hand them out in minutes.
Free printable award ribbons save money and time compared with buying physical ones. Many designs include classic blue (1st), red (2nd), and white or green (3rd) colors that American audiences recognize instantly.
Best Places to Get Free Printable 1st 2nd 3rd Place Ribbons
Here are reliable, currently available free resources focused on legitimate downloadable or printable templates:
- 123 Certificates Award Ribbon Templates — Fully customizable online ribbons in multiple colors and styles (classic rosettes, competition, metallic-look, and cute designs). Add names, event details, or “1st Place,” “2nd Place,” or “3rd Place” text, then print 1-per-page or 2-per-page. Free for personal use. Visit the award ribbons page here: 123 Certificates Free Award Ribbon Templates.
- Coloringoo Printable First Second Third Place Rosettes — Ready-to-print PDF of first, second, and third place rosette-style ribbons. Download and print directly (US Letter size). Ideal for coloring or quick awards. Get the free PDF here: Coloringoo First Second Third Place Rosettes (direct PDF available on the page).
- Tim’s Printables Award Ribbons — Free printable first place (blue/gold), second place (red), third place (green), black-and-white, and blank versions. Print and color or write custom messages. Suitable for homework rewards, races, or tests. Access them here: Tim’s Printables Free Award Ribbons.
These sources provide actual free printables without paywalls for the core templates. Always check the site’s terms for personal or educational use.
Free Printable 1st 2nd 3rd Place Ribbons
How to Print and Assemble Your Ribbons?
- Choose a template and download or open it in your browser.
- Print on white or colored cardstock for durability (regular paper works for temporary awards). Use landscape or portrait as noted on the template.
- Cut out the ribbons carefully with scissors.
- Optional: Punch a hole at the top and add string, yarn, or a safety pin so kids can wear them. Or tape them to projects or bulletin boards.
- Personalize with a marker if the design is blank or black-and-white.
Tips for best results: Print at 100% scale, use higher-quality paper to reduce curling, and laminate if you want reusable awards. For classroom or large events, print multiples of the same design.
Creative Uses for Free Printable Place Ribbons
Teachers often attach them to student work or hallway displays. Parents use them for backyard Olympics, spelling bees, or reading challenges. Coaches hand them out after practices or end-of-season events. They also work well for bake-offs, art contests, or participation recognition when you customize the text.
Black-and-white versions let kids color their own awards, adding a craft element. Blank templates are perfect when you need “Most Improved,” “Best Effort,” or event-specific wording instead of strict place rankings.
Brief FAQ
Are these free printable 1st 2nd 3rd place ribbons really free?
Yes, the linked resources above offer free downloads or online customization and printing for personal/educational use. Some sites may offer paid upgrades or require an account for extra designs, but the core place ribbons remain free.
What paper size do they use?
Most are designed for standard US Letter (8.5 x 11 inches).
Can I edit the text?
123 Certificates allows full online editing. Others are fixed designs or blank for handwriting.
Are physical ribbons better?
Printables are ideal for budget, last-minute, or one-time events. For formal competitions, consider purchasing traditional fabric ribbons if permanence matters.
Free printable 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place ribbons make recognition easy and fun. Download a set from one of the trusted sources above, print a few sheets, and celebrate achievements right away. Whether for school, sports, or home, these simple awards help everyone feel like a winner.