Creating A Handle For Your Wedding Bouquet

Making your own wedding bouquet is a fun and creative way to save money on your big day. It can also be a meaningful project, allowing you to feel more connected to your bouquet and giving you the freedom to customise it to your liking. In this guide, we will focus on how to make a handle for your DIY wedding bouquet.

Choosing the right ribbon

The ribbon you choose to wrap your wedding bouquet handle is important, not only aesthetically but also practically. The right ribbon will lend an elegant, polished look to your bouquet while also being easy to work with.

Firstly, you'll want to consider the width of the ribbon. A wider ribbon will be easier to work with and will ensure the handle is covered with ease. A ribbon that is 2 inches wide is a good standard width to go for.

Next, you'll want to consider the length of the ribbon. Cut the ribbon to size, allowing for a little extra. A 2-foot length of ribbon should be sufficient.

When it comes to the material of the ribbon, avoid using wire-edged ribbon as this lacks the pliability needed to easily wrap the handle. Instead, opt for a material like satin, which will give your bouquet a polished finish. You can also use sheer ribbon, but be aware that this may not hide glue as well as an opaque ribbon. If you want a more natural, rustic look, consider using twine or jute burlap ribbon, which gives a twine vibe.

Finally, consider the colour of the ribbon. You can choose a colour that matches the bride's dress for a classic, elegant look. Alternatively, you can choose a colour that matches the flowers or greenery in the bouquet for a more dynamic appearance.

Using glue to secure the ribbon

Step 1: Prepare the Ribbon

Cut a piece of ribbon that is approximately 2 feet long and 2 inches wide. This length and width will ensure it covers the handle with ease, allowing for some overlap. You can choose a ribbon that matches the colour of the bride's dress or one that complements the flowers and greenery in the bouquet for a dynamic look.

Step 2: Apply Glue to the Handle

Apply a 2-inch strip of hot glue to the top of the handle, just below where it meets the plastic cup containing the flowers. Be careful not to apply too much glue, as you don't want it to drip or be visible under the ribbon.

Step 3: Attach the Ribbon

Press one end of the cut ribbon onto the hot glue at the top of the handle. Hold it in place for a few seconds to ensure the ribbon adheres firmly. Allow the glue to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4: Wrap the Ribbon

Start wrapping the ribbon around the length of the handle, working from the top to the bottom. Keep the ribbon taut and overlap it as you wind, ensuring no part of the handle is visible. Once you reach the bottom, wind the ribbon back up the handle, working from the bottom to the top.

Step 5: Cut and Tuck the Ribbon

When you reach the top of the handle again, cut away any excess ribbon, leaving about 2 extra inches. Tuck one inch of this extra ribbon under, creating a neat fold. You can use hot glue to secure the folded ribbon and ensure a smooth finish.

Step 6: Secure with Glue and Pins (Optional)

At this point, you can further secure the ribbon by pressing the folded portion securely against the handle and adding a few pearl-tipped pins. Push the pins through the ribbon, arranging them vertically and angling them downward so they don't press against the plastic handle.

Your wedding bouquet handle is now complete, adding a polished and elegant touch to your special day!

Cutting the ribbon to size

• Measure the length: Before cutting the ribbon, determine how long you want it to be. As a general rule, cut the ribbon long enough to comfortably wrap around the bouquet handle with some overlap. The amount of overlap will depend on the thickness of the ribbon. For a thicker ribbon, you may need more overlap to ensure full coverage.
• Cut the ribbon: Using sharp scissors, cut the ribbon to the desired length. For a neat finish, ensure that the cut is straight and even.
• Test the length: Before securing the ribbon, test the length by wrapping it around the handle. Hold the cut ends together and adjust the length as needed. It's better to have a little extra ribbon that can be trimmed later than to cut it too short.
• Trim as needed: If the ribbon seems too long after testing, carefully trim it to the desired length. Make sure that you do not cut it too short, as it should comfortably wrap around the handle with some overlap.
• Angle the ends: To create a neat finish, angle the ends of the ribbon. Cut the corners of the ribbon at a diagonal to create a point. This will make it easier to tuck in the ends when wrapping the handle.
• Final adjustments: Once you are happy with the length and angle of the ribbon, make any final adjustments. Ensure that the cut edges are smooth and straight, and remove any loose threads or imperfections.

By following these steps, you will have a ribbon that is the perfect size for wrapping the handle of your wedding bouquet. Remember to take your time and adjust the length as needed to ensure a neat and elegant finish.

Wrapping the bouquet handle

Wrapping the stems of your wedding bouquet is a crucial step in achieving a polished look. Here is a detailed guide on how to wrap the handle of your bouquet:

First, you'll need to prepare the flowers and cut the stems to the desired length. Make sure to remove any thorns and strip off the foliage from the bottom half of the stems. It's important to ensure that all the flower stems are roughly the same length, with about 4-5 inches (10-15 cm) exposed at the bottom.

Next, you can start wrapping the stems. Cut a piece of ribbon that is long enough to cover the stems, with a little extra to secure it. You can use ribbon, burlap, lace, or any other material that complements your bouquet and your dress. Secure the ribbon at the top of the stems with a small amount of hot glue. If you're using a thinner ribbon, you can also use pins to secure it.

Now, carefully start wrapping the ribbon around the stems, working from the top to the bottom. Make sure to overlap the ribbon as you go, so no part of the stems is showing. Once you reach the bottom, start wrapping the ribbon back up towards the top. When you get to the top, cut the ribbon, leaving about 2 extra inches. Tuck one inch of the extra ribbon under, creating a neat fold, and secure it with hot glue or pins.

Finally, you can add any finishing touches. You might want to add a bow, or perhaps some pearl-tipped pins to hold the ribbon in place. You can also use braided twine or faux filler stems to decorate the handle further.

Remember, this is just one method, and there are many creative ways to wrap your bouquet handle. Feel free to experiment with different materials and techniques to create a unique and personalised look for your special day!

Finishing touches

Now that your bouquet is assembled, it's time to finish it off with a handle. Here are some ideas for creating a beautiful and elegant handle for your wedding bouquet:

Ribbon Wrap

A ribbon wrap is a classic and elegant choice for a wedding bouquet handle. Cut a piece of ribbon that is 2 feet long and 2 inches wide. Apply a 2-inch strip of hot glue to the top of the handle, just below where it meets the bouquet. Press one end of the ribbon into the glue and hold it until it is firmly adhered. Then, start wrapping the ribbon around the length of the handle, overlapping as you go to ensure no part of the handle is showing. When you reach the bottom, wind the ribbon back up to the top. Cut off any excess ribbon, leaving about 2 inches. Tuck one inch of the remaining ribbon under the wrapped part, creating a neat fold. Secure the fold with three pearl-tipped pins, arranged vertically and angled downward so they don't press against the handle.

Burlap or Lace Wrap

For a rustic or vintage-style wedding, consider using burlap or lace to wrap the handle of your bouquet. Cut the material to the length you want it to hang and then glue it to the bottom of the handle. Start wrapping the material around the handle, pulling tightly to create a smooth finish. When you reach the top, fold the material at an angle and glue it down. Cut off any excess material and secure any loose ends with a small amount of hot glue.

Floral Tape

Floral tape is a great way to secure the stems of your bouquet and create a simple, elegant handle. Start by wrapping the tape around the stems about 1 to 1.5 inches from the flower heads. Leave between 0 and 4 inches of the stem exposed, depending on your preference. Use the floral tape as a guide to pin the ribbon horizontally, making sure it is parallel with the tape. Wrap the ribbon until the tape is covered and then pin it to secure it in place.

Braided Twine

For a unique and rustic look, try using braided twine to wrap the handle of your bouquet. Cut three equal lengths of twine and tie a knot at one end. Braid the twine together and then glue the finished braid to the top of the handle. Wrap it completely around the top part of the handle and then pull it down across the front, gluing it to the bottom. Continue wrapping until you create an "X" pattern and then cut off any excess twine.

With these finishing touches, your wedding bouquet will not only look beautiful but also have a secure and elegant handle.

Frequently asked questions