Ring Bearer Pillow: How To Hold It

The ring bearer pillow is a small but significant part of a wedding ceremony. The pillow is used to carry the wedding rings, which are usually tied to the pillow with a ribbon. The bearer should balance the pillow on their palms in front of their chest, rather than holding it by the edges. If the bearer is young, an elastic strap can be added to the pillow to prevent it from being dropped.

How to attach rings to a ring bearer pillow

Attaching rings to a ring bearer pillow is a simple process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare the Materials

Firstly, gather all the necessary materials. These include: woven fabric in your chosen colour (traditionally white or cream), decorative ribbon and string, thread and pins, and poly-fil stuffing. You will also need fabric scissors to cut the fabric.

Step 2: Cut and Pin the Fabric

Cut two-foot-long squares of fabric. Place two lengths of ribbon across the first fabric square, extending past the square on opposite sides, to create a clean look for the ribbon once tied on the outside. Pin the ribbon in place, then place the other pillow square on top and pin along the edges, leaving a four-inch opening on one side.

Step 3: Sew the Pillow

Sew along the pinned edges, except for the opening. Turn the pillow right side out—the ribbon should flow out, and the smooth fabric should face outwards.

Step 4: Stuff and Decorate the Pillow

Stuff the pillow with poly-fil until it reaches the desired size. Decorate the pillow as you see fit. A classic method is to wrap a designer ribbon into a large bow. You can add more ribbon if desired, but remember to tie together any dangling pieces so they don't unravel.

Step 5: Attach the Rings

Finally, subtly sew in the string as a place to tie the rings. You can also use other methods to attach the rings, such as tying them to a button with a thin ribbon.

How to make a ring bearer pillow without sewing

To make a ring bearer pillow without sewing, you will need two squares of fabric, ribbon, glue, and stuffing.

First, cut out two squares of fabric. The size of the squares will depend on how big you want your pillow to be. Keep in mind that you will need to add an extra inch to the length and width of the pillow if you want it to be bigger than 10 inches. Once you have your squares, clip the corners by a quarter of an inch to reduce bulk and help conceal the raw edges.

Next, turn the fabric so that the wrong side is facing up. Fold over and iron all the edges by a quarter of an inch, then glue the hems. Let the glue dry, and then glue the two squares together, leaving one side open for stuffing.

Once the glue is dry, stuff the pillow with polyester stuffing, foam, or a mini pillow insert. Be careful not to overstuff, as this may cause the pillow to look misshapen.

Finally, glue the last side of the pillow shut and add any desired decorations, such as a ribbon for attaching the rings. You can now attach the rings to the pillow using the ribbon.

How to decorate a ring bearer pillow

There are many ways to decorate a ring bearer pillow and add a personal touch to your wedding ceremony. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Choose the Right Fabric

Select a fabric that complements your wedding colours and theme. Popular choices include satin, cotton, burlap, linen, canvas, and silk. If you're making a no-sew pillow, consider using heavier fabric such as burlap, linen, or canvas for a rustic look. Don't be afraid to experiment with different fabrics for the front and back of the pillow.

Embellish with Ribbon

Wrap a designer ribbon into a large bow, adding more ribbon if desired. You can also tie a ribbon around the pillow, then add the rings and tie it into a bow. Consider using a 1/16 or 1/8 inch ribbon for a fancier look. Embellish the bow further by adding a symbolic charm, such as a horseshoe or a heart.

Add Trims and Embroidery

Decorate your pillow with trims along the sides, embroidery, or both. Embroider the fabric by hand or with a machine before assembling the pillow. For a romantic touch, use ruffled lace trim, or opt for fabric lace for a rustic feel.

Get Creative with Shapes and Overlays

Cut out two identical shapes from your chosen fabric and sew them together, leaving a gap for stuffing. Try a circle, heart, or rectangle shape. Remember to clip corners and cut notches into curved edges. For an elegant touch, add a lace, chiffon, or organza overlay to the front of the pillow.

Add Personalised Charms and Flowers

Add small flowers, charms, or trinkets to the ribbon. These tiny details can add a personalised touch to your ceremony, especially if they hold special meanings for you and your spouse.

How to hold a ring bearer pillow during a wedding ceremony

Holding a ring bearer pillow during a wedding ceremony is a significant task, as it symbolises the commitment and love that lead to the wedding. The pillow should be held carefully and securely, with the rings attached to it, to ensure they do not fall off.

The ring bearer should balance the pillow on their palms in front of their chest, rather than holding it by the edges. This ensures a secure grip and also looks more elegant. If the ring bearer is young, an elastic strap can be sewn onto the pillow, so they can slip their wrist through it and not worry about dropping it.

To attach the rings to the pillow, you can use a ribbon. Place the rings in a loop created by the ribbon and then tie a knot to secure them. The pillow can then be decorated with flowers, charms, or other embellishments that match the wedding theme.

The ring bearer walks behind the bridal party up to the altar, where they hand the pillow to the officiant or place it in a designated spot until the rings are needed. Rehearsing how to hold the pillow and walk with it gracefully is a good idea, especially for young ring bearers.

How to make a ring bearer pillow

Making your own ring bearer pillow is a great way to bring a unique touch to your wedding. Here is a guide on how to make one:

Materials

You will need two 10-inch squares of fabric that matches your wedding colours and theme. You can use any type of fabric such as satin, cotton, or burlap. If you want a different-sized pillow, simply add a 1/2-inch seam to the length and width. You will also need scissors, polyester stuffing, a needle and thread, and decorations such as ribbon, lace, pearls, and charms.

Sewing the Pillow

First, stack the squares with the right sides together and secure the edges with pins. Sew three of the edges with a 1/4-inch seam allowance, either by hand or using a sewing machine. Trim the corners to reduce bulk and help your pillow look neater. Then, turn the pillow right side out and stuff it with polyester stuffing. Close the open seam by folding and pinning the raw edges, then hand sew the opening shut.

Attaching the Rings

To attach the rings, attach a string to a ribbon with a slipknot. Form the ribbon into a bow and secure it in the middle of the pillow with glue or by sewing. Trim the ribbon and string to the desired length and singe the ends with a flame if they are fraying. Finally, thread the rings onto the string and tie a knot to secure them.

No-Sew Option

If you don't want to sew, you can also make a no-sew pillow using hot glue or fabric glue. Cut and clip your fabric as above, then set the seams by folding and gluing the edges. Glue the squares together on three sides, leaving one side open. Stuff the pillow and glue the final seam. Attach the rings as above.

Decorating the Pillow

You can decorate your pillow with ribbon, lace, pearls, or charms. Try tying a ribbon around the pillow and adding a symbolic charm to the bow, such as a horseshoe or a heart. You can also add ribbon rosettes, corded trim, tassels, or embroidery. Get creative and make your pillow unique to you!

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