Creating A Wedding Garter Belt: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding garter belts are a fun tradition that has evolved over the years. The groom removes the garter from the bride's leg and tosses it to a group of bachelors, with the catcher said to be the next one to marry. This tradition is meant to be a playful moment during the reception and is a fun activity for wedding guests. Making your own garter belt is a great option for those who are crafty and want to add a personal touch to their wedding. This can be done by measuring the thigh, preparing the lace and elastic, and sewing the pieces together.

Choosing materials and creating a pattern

To make a garter belt for a wedding, you will need to choose your materials and create a pattern before you start sewing.

Choosing Materials

Firstly, you will need to decide on the type of fabric you want to use for your garter belt. You can opt for lace, elastic, satin, or any other material that suits your preference. Consider the colour, texture, and stretchiness of the fabric to ensure it meets your desired look and feel.

In addition to the fabric, you will need other materials such as a measuring tape, sewing tools (needle and thread or a sewing machine), and decorations (such as ribbons, crystals, or pearls). If you want to add elastic to your garter belt, you will also need to purchase elastic strips or rubber bands.

Creating a Pattern

When creating a pattern for your garter belt, start by taking measurements of the wearer's waist and thigh. The measurements will guide the length and width of your fabric pieces.

For the waist, draw a line that is slightly shorter than the quarter waist circumference (subtract 0.5 cm or 1/4 inch) and then add a 2 cm space. Repeat this for the other side, so you have two lines representing the waist with a gap in between. This gap will be closed by a fastening, such as a bra fastener or hook and eye tape.

For the thigh, measure the circumference at the desired height (usually mid-thigh) and cut your fabric accordingly. You may want to add a slight allowance (around 1-2 inches) to ensure a comfortable fit.

Determine the positions of the garters and mark these on your pattern. The distances between the garters should be fairly equal.

Before cutting your fabric, it is advisable to test your pattern on a scrap fabric to ensure it fits well and make any necessary adjustments.

Once you are happy with your pattern, cut out your fabric pieces, remembering to leave a suitable seam allowance. Cut the front piece on the fold, and the back should consist of two pieces.

Sewing and Decorating

Now it's time to start sewing your garter belt! Stitch or pin the sides together, then sew them, notch the seam allowances, and press them open. Sew both layers together in the marked areas, and then it's time to attach the garters.

Cut elastic pieces for the garters, allowing a few extra inches to ensure they are not too short. Attach the garters to your belt, using safety pins to guide them into place, and sew them securely.

Finally, add your chosen decorations, such as ribbons, crystals, or pearls. Position them as desired, and your garter belt is complete!

Measuring and cutting the fabric

To make a garter belt for a wedding, follow these steps to measure and cut the fabric:

First, measure the circumference of your waist with a tape measure. If your waist is wider than 60 cm, you will need to draw a larger pattern. Draw a line that is a quarter of your waist circumference minus 0.5 cm, then leave a 2 cm space, and draw another line that is a quarter of the waist circumference minus 0.5 cm. The pattern's waist circumference should be slightly smaller than your actual waist to allow for the addition of a fastening later.

Next, draw a centre front line (left) of 10 cm plus a 5 cm auxiliary line. Then, draw a centre back line of 5 cm plus a 10 cm auxiliary line. These auxiliary lines will help guide your pattern. You may want to use a marker for the main lines and a pencil for the auxiliary lines.

Now, draw auxiliary lines as illustrated in the reference image. Draw a horizontal line at the height of 10 cm and another at the bottom. From the edges of the waist lines, draw vertical lines. Another vertical line will set the centre of the 2 cm space.

Determine the positions of the garters by dividing the distances between the attachment points evenly. Draw auxiliary lines through the centres of these distances. You will be drawing arcs in the next step, and this will make it easier.

Before you start sewing, test your pattern on a scrap of fabric to ensure it fits and make any necessary adjustments.

Cut your main fabric and lining, remembering to leave a suitable seam allowance. Cut your front piece on the fold, and the back should consist of two pieces. If your fabric is weak and stretchy, you may want to strengthen it with fleece.

Stitch or pin the sides, then sew them. Notch the seam allowances and press them open.

Sew both layers in the places marked, and notch the seam allowances.

Now it's time to prepare the garters. Cut 20 cm of elastic rubber for each front and side garter, and 23 cm for the rear garters. However, keep in mind that these measurements will result in relatively short garters, so you may want to cut yours a few inches longer.

Attach the garters to the belt by slipping the ends of the rubber bands into place. You can use a safety pin to help guide them. Sew in the marked places, leaving one side of the fastening unsewn as you will be turning the inside out through it.

Turn the garter belt inside out, and iron it well.

Finally, sew your fastening in place. You can use a bra fastening, hook and eye tape, or any other suitable method.

Sewing the fabric and elastic together

Now it's time to sew the fabric and elastic together. You will need to cut the lace according to the size of the elastic strip but add an inch of allowance to the lace's width. The length of the lace should be twice the measurement of the elastic, and you should fold the lace in half before sewing the ends to close the garter belt.

Next, pin one end of the elastic strip and stretch it out, securing the end with another pin. You can then sew the lace onto the elastic, cutting off any excess material. You can test the belt at this stage to see if it is sewn on securely.

If you are more experienced with sewing, you could also create a button enclosure to make the belt easier to put on and take off.

Adding decorations and embellishments

Before you start, it's important to test the garter on your thigh to determine the correct placement of the decorations. This will ensure that the embellishments are positioned correctly and look aesthetically pleasing. Once you have a clear idea of where the decorations will go, you can start adding them.

Some popular decoration options include ribbons, crystals, pearls, and lace. You can also add sentimental tokens or incorporate heirloom pieces, such as lace from your mother's or grandmother's veil, to make your garter belt even more special. If you want to add a touch of sparkle, consider using rhinestones or other glittery embellishments.

When attaching the decorations, make sure you use a strong adhesive or carefully sew them onto the garter belt to ensure they stay in place. You can also use a combination of sewing and adhesive for added security.

Keep in mind that the decorations you choose should complement the overall style and colour scheme of your wedding. For example, if you have a rustic-themed wedding, you might want to use natural materials such as twine or wooden beads as embellishments. If your wedding has a more glamorous theme, you can go for more sparkle and shine with your decorations.

Don't be afraid to experiment and get creative with your embellishments. Adding decorations and embellishments is a great way to make your garter belt unique and personalised.

Testing the garter belt for fit and security

Testing for Fit:

Firstly, try on the garter belt to ensure it fits comfortably and securely. It should be snug but not too tight, and it should not dig into your skin. Stand up and move around a little to ensure it stays in place and feels comfortable. You may need to adjust the elastic if it is too loose or too tight.

Testing for Security:

The security of your garter belt is also important, especially if you plan to wear it for an extended period. Check that the fastening is secure and will not come undone easily. If using a bra fastener, hook and eye tape, or similar, ensure it is securely attached and closed.

Testing the Garters:

The garters themselves need to be secure and able to hold your stockings. Test them by attaching your stockings and moving around. The elastic in the garters should be tight enough to hold the stockings in place without slipping, but not so tight that it cuts into your skin.

Final Checks:

Once you are happy with the fit and security of the garter belt, it is a good idea to test it out by sitting, standing, and walking around, perhaps even trying a few dance moves! This will ensure that it stays in place and feels comfortable throughout your wedding day and any activities you have planned.

Making Adjustments:

If you find that adjustments are needed after testing, make careful alterations. It is better to make small changes and then retest than to make large changes that may affect the overall fit and security.

By following these steps, you can ensure your handmade garter belt fits well, feels secure, and will enhance your wedding day, whether worn as a functional accessory or just for the traditional garter toss.

Frequently asked questions