Crafting A Bow For The Ring Bearer Pillow

Making a bow for a ring bearer pillow is a simple task that can add a unique touch to your special day. The first step is to choose a design and prepare the necessary materials, such as fabric, ribbon, string, and stuffing. Cut the fabric and ribbons to the desired size, and then attach the ribbons to the fabric. Sew the pillowcase, stuff it, and pin a silk string to hold the rings in place. Finally, create a bow with the ribbon and attach it to the pillow. You can also add embellishments like charms, embroidery, or lace to make it more decorative.

Choosing the right fabric

Firstly, you'll want to choose a fabric that is smooth and strong, with no loose threads that could cling to the rings. Opt for a material that won't easily tear, as you want to ensure the rings are secure. Smooth, sturdy fabrics such as satin, cotton, or burlap are good options. If you're going for a traditional look, white or cream-coloured fabric is a popular choice. However, feel free to select a colour that complements the rings and makes them stand out.

Another factor to consider is the print or design of the fabric. If the fabric has a print, make sure it suits the wedding theme. You could also opt for a plain fabric with a glossy sheen and pair it with a matte-coloured ribbon for an elegant, understated look. Embroidered or lace fabric can add a fancy touch, while burlap, linen, or canvas can give a rustic feel.

Lastly, don't forget to consider the size of the fabric squares you'll need for your pillow. Typically, two 10-inch squares are used, but you can adjust the size according to your preference, just remember to add a 1/2 inch seam allowance.

Cutting the fabric

When cutting the fabric, it is important to choose a material that matches the wedding theme and colours. Common fabrics used for ring bearer pillows include satin, cotton, and burlap. If you want to add a unique touch, consider using a different fabric such as burlap, linen, or canvas. You can also use a combination of fabrics, such as a fancy embroidered fabric for the front and a plain fabric for the back.

Once you have cut the fabric to the desired size and chosen the appropriate material, you can move on to the next step of assembling the pillow.

Attaching the ribbons

Lay the ribbon of lesser width on top of the wider one. Make sure the edges match up. Place the ribbon in the centre and on the top of one pillowcase piece, along the side edge. Pin the ribbon in place, and sew along the side edge using a sufficient seam allowance. Repeat these steps for the other ribbon on the opposite side of the pillow.

Place one pillowcase piece on top of the other. Place pins on every edge of the pillow. Now you can sew or stitch all the sides, but make sure to leave an opening of adequate distance for you to be able to turn it with the right side in the uppermost part.

Sewing the pillowcase

Now that you have your materials ready and your ribbons attached, it's time to sew the pillowcase!

Place one pillowcase piece on top of the other, with the right sides of the fabric facing each other. Use pins to secure the fabric together along the edges. Make sure to leave an opening of a few inches on one side, so you can turn the pillowcase right side out later.

If you have a sewing machine, you can use it to sew along the pinned edges. Otherwise, you can hand sew the edges together using a needle and thread. Remember to use a matching thread colour and a straight stitch.

Once you've sewn three of the sides, it's time to trim the corners. Cut as close to the stitching as possible without cutting the thread. Be sure to clip the corners along the edge you left open, as this will make it easier to sew the opening shut later.

Now, turn the pillowcase right side out through the opening. Use something blunt and pointy, like a knitting needle or pencil, to push out the corners. Your pillowcase is now ready for stuffing!

Polyester stuffing will work best, but you can also use foam or a plain ring pillow. Push the stuffing into the pillowcase and then close the open seam by folding the raw edges of the opening inwards and securing them with pins. You can then hand sew the opening shut with a ladder stitch. Alternatively, you can use hot glue or fabric glue to close the opening.

Tying the rings to the pillow

Step 1: Prepare your materials

Before you start, make sure you have your pillow, your rings, and a piece of ribbon or string. The ribbon or string should be long enough to tie around the pillow and the rings, with some left over. You can choose a colour that matches your wedding theme, or opt for something simple and classic like white or cream.

Step 2: Create a slipknot

Take your ribbon or string and fold it in half, so that you have a loop at one end and two loose ends at the other. Place the loop behind the ribbon, then pull the loose ends through the loop and tighten to create a slipknot. Position the slipknot in the centre of the ribbon.

Step 3: Form a bow

Take the left and right ends of the ribbon and fold them into loops. Cross the left loop over the right, then thread it through the gap you've created. Pull on the loops to tighten the bow. Adjust the loops and tails until you're happy with how the bow looks.

Step 4: Secure the bow to the pillow

Place a large dot of hot glue or fabric glue in the centre of the pillow, then press the bow into the glue and hold until it sets. Alternatively, you can sew the bow onto the pillow using matching thread. Make sure the tails and strings of the bow are hanging below the loops.

Step 5: Trim the ribbon

If your ribbon tails or strings are too long, trim them to your desired length. If the ends of the ribbon are fraying, you can singe them with a flame to seal them.

Step 6: Tie on the rings

Thread both rings onto one of the strings, then tie the strings together in a simple knot or a bow. And that's it! Your ring-bearer pillow is now ready for the big day.

Frequently asked questions