Create A Wedding Bolero Shrug: A Step-By-Step Guide

A wedding bolero shrug is a must-have item in your wardrobe. It serves as a cover-up and can be worn with your favourite camisole top. You can make a bolero or shrug by sewing it yourself, or knitting it. There are many online tutorials and patterns available for free, with some taking less than half an hour to make.

Choosing the right fabric

When it comes to choosing the right fabric for your wedding bolero shrug, there are several factors to consider. The type of fabric you select will depend on the overall style and theme of your wedding, the season, and your personal preferences for comfort and aesthetics. Here are some detailed guidelines to help you make the right choice:

• Texture and Sheer Fabrics: If you're aiming for a luxurious and elegant look, consider opting for fabrics like silk, satin, or chiffon. These fabrics offer a smooth and refined texture, enhancing the overall sophistication of your bridal ensemble. Additionally, sheer fabrics like lace or mesh can be an excellent choice for a wedding bolero shrug, providing a delicate and romantic touch while still offering coverage.
• Season and Comfort: Consider the season and temperature of your wedding day. For a winter wedding, thicker fabrics like velvet or faux fur can provide warmth and a cosy feel. On the other hand, for a summer wedding, lightweight and breathable fabrics such as chiffon, lace, or crocheted cotton blends are ideal for keeping you comfortable while still looking stylish.
• Embellishments and Detailing: If you're planning to embellish your bolero with embroidery, mirror work, or beaded details, ensure that the fabric can withstand the added weight and intricacy of such decorations. Fabrics like silk, satin, or even a sturdy cotton blend can be a good base for intricate embellishments.
• Drape and Flow: The drape and flow of the fabric are essential to consider, especially if you're aiming for a boho-chic or whimsical look. Fabrics like silk, chiffon, or soft tulle will create a beautiful, fluid silhouette, adding to the overall grace and movement of your wedding outfit.
• Colour and Versatility: While traditional wedding colours like ivory or white are popular choices, don't be afraid to think outside the box. You can opt for coloured fabrics that complement your wedding theme or choose a fabric that can be dyed to match your specific colour palette. Additionally, consider the versatility of the fabric; choosing a fabric that can be worn again for other special occasions will allow you to cherish your wedding bolero shrug long after the big day.

Remember, the fabric you choose will significantly impact the overall look and feel of your wedding bolero shrug. Take into account the style of your wedding dress, the venue, and the overall atmosphere you wish to create as you make your selection.

Adding sleeves

Drafting the Sleeve Pattern:

• Measure the distance from the shoulder to the waist.
• Add 2 1/4 inches to this measurement for the high neck and hem allowance.
• Using the measurements provided in the tutorial, mark the rest of the required measurements on your fabric.
• For the back armhole, mark 1" diagonally from point I to J, then mark the curve.
• To create the front pattern, make a copy of the back pattern by tracing it onto another piece of paper.
• Cut the front pattern as per the instructions and images provided in the tutorial.
• Join the front and back patterns at the shoulder seams.

Cutting the Fabric:

• Cut out the fabric pieces for the sleeves following the pattern you've drafted.
• Cut any additional pieces, such as lining or facing strips, as needed.

Sewing the Bolero:

• Sew the front edge of the bolero, leaving the side edges and armhole edge open.
• Trim the seam allowance and understitch the remaining seam allowance to the facing.
• Turn the piece right side out and press it in place.
• Finish the top edge of the back piece by stitching the facing to the neck edge, then turning it under and stitching in place.
• Join the shoulders of the front pieces to the back piece and trim the seam allowance.
• Finish the edges with a zig-zag stitch to prevent fraying.
• Bind the armhole edge with a bias strip.
• Stitch a facing strip to the bottom hem of the back piece, then stitch or turn under the hem edge.
• Ensure that the side edges are aligned correctly before sewing the facing and side seams.

By following these steps, you can add sleeves to your wedding bolero shrug, creating a stylish and comfortable garment for your special day.

Sewing the bolero

To sew a bolero, you will first need to take some measurements. Measure the distance from the shoulder to the waist, adding 2 1/4 inches for the high neck and hem. You will also need to measure your bust round, waist round, and shoulder to shoulder.

Next, mark your measurements on the fabric as follows:

• A-B = Height + 2 1/4 “
• G-C = According to bust round (Less than 32″ – 6.5″, 34 ” & 36″ – 7.5″)
• C-E = 1/4 of bust round + 2″
• B-F = 1/4 of waist round + 1.5″
• G-H = 1/2 of shoulder to shoulder + 1/4 inch (this measurement can be reduced if you want a slightly raised armhole line near the shoulder)
• Mark K 1/2 inch from H
• Come down from H straight down to I; Mark diagonally 1″ to J; Mark the curve for the back armhole

To make the front pattern, copy the back pattern by tracing it onto another piece of paper and making a few cuts as shown in the image. The back pattern is one piece, while the front pattern has two pieces. Cut four pieces for the front if you want a self-lining for the front panels.

Now, you can start sewing! Keep the front piece and lining piece right sides together and sew up the front edge, leaving the side edges and armhole edge unsewn. Trim the seam allowance and understitch the remaining seam allowance to the facing so that the lining will roll easily inside. Turn the piece right side out and repeat for the other side. Press in place.

For the back piece, finish the top edge by stitching the facing to the neck edge, turning it under, and topstitching. Keep the facing bias strip right side together with the neck edge, stitch, turn under, and stitch in place.

Join the shoulders of the front pieces to the back piece, trim the seam allowance, and finish the edges with a zig-zag stitch. You may need to tack this seam allowance down and stitch with a hand needle and thread to prevent it from poking out.

Bind the armhole edge with a bias strip. Stitch a facing strip to the bottom hem of the back piece, then stitch or turn under the hem edge and stitch. Ensure that the side edges are aligned correctly at the bottom before sewing the facing.

Finally, sew the side edges together with a 1″ seam allowance. And that's it! You've now sewn a bolero!

Embellishing with embroidery or mirror work

Planning the Design:

Before you begin embroidering, it's essential to plan your design. Decide on the placement of your embroidery, whether you want it on the sleeves, back, or front of the bolero. Choose a design that complements the style of the bolero and your wedding outfit. You can opt for intricate floral patterns, romantic hearts, or any motif that holds a special meaning for you.

Selecting the Right Thread:

Choose an embroidery thread that complements the fabric and colour of your bolero. Opt for a thread that is slightly thicker than standard sewing thread to ensure your embroidery stands out. You can select a matching colour for subtlety or go with a contrasting colour for a bolder statement.

Stabilizing the Fabric:

Before you start embroidering, stabilize the fabric of your bolero to prevent it from puckering or distorting. Cut a piece of lightweight, iron-on stabilizer and place it inside the bolero, behind the area you plan to embroider. This will provide a sturdy base for your stitches.

Transferring the Design:

If you're working with a complex design, transfer it to the bolero fabric using dressmaker's carbon paper. Place the carbon paper between the fabric and your design, then trace the design with a pencil to transfer it onto the fabric. This will serve as your guide as you embroider.

Stitching Techniques:

There are various stitching techniques you can use to create different effects. Backstitch is great for outlining and filling in shapes, while French knots add texture and dimension. You can also try satin stitch for filling in larger areas with smooth, shiny thread coverage. Experiment with different stitches to find the ones you like best.

Mirror Work:

If you're incorporating mirror work, ensure you have the right type of mirrors. Use small, flat-backed mirrors specifically designed for embroidery. Secure them in place with a suitable adhesive, following the instructions provided with the mirrors. You can embroider around the mirrors to create a decorative frame and enhance their visual impact.

Framing Your Embroidery:

Once you've completed your embroidery, consider framing it with additional embellishments like beads, sequins, or lace. This will further enhance the visual appeal and make your wedding bolero shrug truly one-of-a-kind.

Embellishing your wedding bolero shrug with embroidery or mirror work is a creative process that allows you to express your personal style. Take your time, enjoy the process, and don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques and designs.

Binding the armhole edge

Begin by drafting the pattern for the armhole edge binding. Measure the distance from the shoulder to the waist, adding 2 1/4 inches to accommodate the high neck and hem. This extra length is essential to ensure a comfortable fit around the armhole.

Next, cut a bias strip of fabric that will serve as the binding for the armhole edge. The strip should be slightly longer than the armhole edge to allow for ease of stitching and a neat finish. Fold the strip in half lengthwise and press it with an iron to create a crisp edge.

Now, place the bolero with the right side facing up. Pin the binding strip to the armhole edge, aligning the raw edges and matching the strip's midpoint with the armhole's bottom. Stitch the binding to the armhole, using a 1/4 inch seam allowance.

After stitching the binding in place, fold it towards the bolero's wrong side, enclosing the raw edge of the armhole. Press the folded binding with an iron to create a crisp edge.

Finally, edgestitch the binding in place, ensuring that you catch the underside of the binding in your stitching. This step secures the binding and creates a neat and durable finish.

By following these steps, you will have successfully bound the armhole edge of your wedding bolero, adding a touch of elegance and ensuring a comfortable fit for the wearer.

Frequently asked questions