Creating A Satin Bridal Garter: A Step-By-Step Guide

Making a satin wedding garter is a simple project that can be completed in under an hour. All you need to know is how to sew a straight line! You will need scraps of satin fabric or wide ribbon, sharp scissors, a rhinestone button, and some tulle (optional). First, measure the circumference of your leg and cut a strip of fabric to that length, multiplying by 1.5 to get the perfect amount of gathering. Sew a simple straight stitch along the long edge, then press and cut two pieces of tulle to the same length. Sew the satin on top of the tulle, and then run 1/2 elastic through it, cutting the elastic to fit snugly but comfortably around your thigh. Sew the two open ends together, and embellish as desired.

Choosing materials: satin, lace, elastic, ribbon, etc

When making a satin wedding garter, you will need to choose materials that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also comfortable and durable. Here are some considerations for choosing the right materials:

Satin

Satin is a smooth and lustrous fabric often used for wedding garters due to its elegant appearance and soft texture. It can be made from various fibres, including silk, polyester, or a blend of both. When choosing satin fabric, consider the colour, thickness, and quality to ensure it meets your desired look and feel.

Lace

Lace is a delicate fabric made of yarn or thread in a web-like pattern. It adds a romantic and intricate detail to the garter. When selecting lace, consider the pattern, colour, and width. You can choose from a variety of lace styles, such as stretch lace, Chantilly lace, or embroidered lace, to create the desired effect.

Elastic

Elastic is essential for the functionality of the garter. It provides stretch and ensures a secure fit around the leg. Look for flat elastic in a width that corresponds to the width of your satin ribbon. Choose an elastic that is comfortable and has good recovery, meaning it returns to its original shape after stretching.

Ribbon

Ribbon is used to create the base of the garter and can be made from materials such as satin, grosgrain, or organza. Select a ribbon width that complements the lace and elastic widths. Consider the colour and texture of the ribbon to match your chosen satin and lace. You may also want to choose a ribbon with a decorative edge or a specific pattern that enhances the overall design.

Embellishments

Embellishments can include rhinestones, buttons, charms, or other decorative elements. These add a personalised touch to the garter and can be sewn or glued on. Consider the overall theme and colour scheme of the wedding when choosing embellishments to ensure they complement the garter's design.

When choosing materials for your satin wedding garter, it's important to consider the colour scheme, texture, and overall design you want to achieve. By combining satin, lace, elastic, and ribbon in complementary colours and styles, you can create a beautiful and customised garter for your special day.

Measuring: the leg, ribbon, lace, and elastic

The first step in making a satin wedding garter is to measure the circumference of the leg where the garter will be worn. This will be the base measurement for the rest of the project. It's important to remember that each bride's leg is different, so the garter will need to be customised accordingly.

For the ribbon, you will need a 52-inch piece of 1-inch white satin ribbon, or grosgrain ribbon. Cut the 52-inch piece of ribbon in half, so you have two 26-inch pieces. You will also need a 26-inch piece of flat, non-gathered, 2- to 2.5-inch lace with one scalloped or decorative edge, and a 26-inch piece of 1/4- to 1/2-inch flat lace with one decorative edge for the top edge of the garter.

For the elastic, take your leg circumference measurement and subtract 3 inches. For example, if your leg circumference is 14 inches, your elastic should be 11 inches long. This will ensure that the garter fits snugly and comfortably, without falling down.

Once you have all your measurements, cut your ribbon, lace, and elastic to size. You can then begin assembling your garter by following the sewing instructions in the full tutorial.

Cutting: the fabric to size

The first step in making a satin wedding garter is to measure the circumference of your leg where you want to wear the garter. This will be the length of your garter.

For a satin and lace garter, you will need a 52-inch piece of 1-inch white satin ribbon. Cut the ribbon in half so that you have two 26-inch pieces.

If you are using a wider satin fabric, cut a strip of fabric that is the same length as your leg measurement, multiplied by 1.5, and about 3 inches wide.

For the elastic, take your leg measurement and subtract 3 inches. Cut the elastic to this length.

If you are using lace, cut a piece that is the length of your ribbon or fabric, plus an additional 7 inches for gathering.

You will also need a piece of 1/4- to 1/2-inch flat lace with a decorative edge for the top of the garter. Cut this to the same length as your ribbon or fabric.

If you are using embellishments such as ribbon, cut them to the desired length. You can cut three 6-inch pieces of 1/4-inch-wide ribbon and loop them for a decorative effect.

Sewing: the fabric together

To sew the fabric together, start by measuring the circumference of your leg (distance around the area of your leg where you want to wear the garter). Cut your fabric to size, adding a few extra inches to allow for comfortable gathering.

For a satin garter, cut a strip of satin fabric to size and fold it in half, with the right sides of the fabric facing each other. Sew a simple straight stitch along the long edge. If you're using tulle, cut two pieces to the same length but a little wider than the satin, and sew the satin on top of the tulle, close to each edge.

If you're adding lace, cut a piece of lace to the same length as the satin and sew it to the satin, keeping the stitching as straight as possible. You can then sew the opposite edge of the lace to the satin for a second seam.

For a ribbon embellishment, sew the ribbon on top of the lace, keeping the stitching straight.

Once you've attached all your fabric pieces together, you can sew the two open ends together to form a loop. Trim any loose threads and turn the garter right side out.

Embellishing: with buttons, rhinestones, initials, etc

Embellishing your wedding garter is a great way to add a personal touch to your special day. Here are some ideas for how to embellish a satin wedding garter with buttons, rhinestones, initials, and other details:

Buttons:

• Crystal buttons can add a touch of sparkle to your garter. Look for buttons in a variety of sizes and shapes to create interest.
• You can also use buttons with special meaning, such as buttons from an old suit or a family heirloom.
• Sewing buttons onto the garter will ensure they stay secure, but you can also use a strong fabric glue if you prefer.

Rhinestones:

• Rhinestones come in a variety of colours and sizes, so you can find ones that complement the overall aesthetic of your wedding.
• Consider using small rhinestones in a neutral colour for a subtle look, or go bold with larger, colourful rhinestones.
• Rhinestones can be sewn or glued onto the garter. If gluing, be sure to use a strong adhesive.

Initials:

• Personalise your garter with your initials, or those of your partner, for a unique touch.
• You can use rhinestones, beads, or embroidery to add your initials. For example, consider using small rhinestones to spell out your initials in a script font.
• Another idea is to add a charm with your initials engraved.

Other Embellishments:

• Bows, pearls, and other types of buttons or gemstones can also be used to embellish your garter.
• If you're looking for something blue, consider a light blue garter or adding a blue bow or gemstone.
• You can also incorporate meaningful items, such as a locket or a small charm.

When embellishing your garter, feel free to get creative and mix and match different types of details. The most important thing is to choose embellishments that reflect your style and personality.

Frequently asked questions