Abstract: The invention comprises an improved method of growing crystalline bodies from a melt. The method involves providing (1) a crucible for containing a melt having a plurality of first and second grooves of capillary size formed in first and second opposite side walls thereof respectively, and enlargements at the upper ends of the slots for facilitating crystal growth, (2) a feed cavity associated with the crucible for receiving solid source material for replenishing the melt, and (3) a passageway between the feed cavity and the crucible for transmitting melted source material to the crucible so as to replenish the melt in the crucible. A plurality of ribbons are formed by positioning a seed between each pair of first and second grooves, contacting the seeds with the melt, and then withdrawing the seeds vertically out of the crucible.