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

Wedding garter belts are a fun tradition that adds depth and meaning to the overall wedding experience. The groom traditionally removes the garter from the bride's leg and tosses it to a group of bachelors, with the act symbolising the consummation of their union. Making your own wedding garter belt is an easy and quick way to obtain an awesome piece of lingerie. All you need is some lace, elastic strips, a measuring tape, and sewing materials. First, measure the bride's thigh and cut the elastic strip to size. Then, prepare the lace and sew it onto the elastic. Finally, add any desired decorations and embellishments.

Choosing materials and measurements

Choosing the right materials and measurements for your DIY wedding garter belt is essential to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. Here's a detailed guide to help you with this process:

Materials:

When making a wedding garter belt, you will need the following materials:

• Lace: Choose a lace fabric that complements your wedding dress. You will need both narrow and wide types of lace. The lace should be soft and flexible for comfort.
• Elastic strip: Select an elastic that is durable yet stretchy. It should be comfortable against the skin and strong enough to hold the garter in place.
• Measuring tape: A flexible measuring tape specifically designed for sewing or tailoring is ideal.
• Sewing materials: These include a needle and thread, or a sewing machine, scissors, and any desired decorations such as ribbons, crystals, or pearls.

Measurements:

To ensure an accurate fit for the bride, follow these measurement steps:

• Measure the thigh: Use the measuring tape to firmly wrap around the bride's thigh, about 5 inches above the knee. Ensure the tape is snug but not too tight. You can also stand to check that the tape doesn't dig into the skin.
• Calculate the elastic strip length: Take the thigh measurement and add 1.5 inches to determine the total length needed for the elastic strip. You may add a bit more allowance if desired.
• Cut the lace: Prepare the lace by cutting it according to the size of the elastic strip, adding an extra inch to the width. The length of the lace should be twice the measurement of the elastic.
• Prepare the elastic: Before cutting the elastic to the calculated length, sew its end to prevent curling or folding.

By following these steps for choosing materials and measurements, you'll be well on your way to creating a beautiful and comfortable wedding garter belt.

Sewing the belt

Firstly, you will need to create a pattern for the garter belt. Draw a line measuring a quarter of your waist circumference minus 0.5 cm, then a 2 cm space, and then another line measuring a quarter of your waist circumference minus 0.5 cm. The pattern's waist circumference should be slightly smaller than your actual waist to allow for the fastening.

Next, draw a centre front line of 10 cm plus a 5 cm auxiliary line, and a centre back line of 5 cm plus a 10 cm auxiliary line. These auxiliary lines will help you draw your pattern straight, so you may want to define the main lines with a marker and the auxiliary lines with a pencil. Draw horizontal lines at 10 cm and the bottom of the pattern, and vertical lines starting at the edges of the waist lines. Another vertical line will set the centre of the 2 cm space.

Now, determine the positions of the garters. The distances between the front, side, and back garters should be fairly equal. Draw auxiliary lines in the centre of each distance. You will be drawing arcs in the next step, and this will make it easier.

Before you start sewing your garter belt, try your pattern out on a scrap of fabric to check the fit 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 you find your external fabric too stretchy, you can 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 each rear garter. These garters will be relatively short, so you may want to cut yours a few inches longer.

Attach the garters to your belt. Slip the ends of the rubber bands into place, using a safety pin if needed. Sew in the marked places, leaving one side of the fastening unsewn so that you can turn the belt inside out.

Iron your garter belt well, and then sew your fastening. You can use a bra fastening, hook and eye tape, or whatever you prefer.

Finally, decorate your garter belt according to your taste.

Adding decorations

Ribbons, Crystals, and Pearls

Enhance the beauty of your garter belt by sewing on decorative elements such as ribbons, crystals, or pearls. These embellishments add a touch of elegance and can be positioned exactly where you want them. Test the garter on your thigh to find the perfect spot for each decoration.

Monograms and Sentimental Tokens

Make your garter belt truly unique by incorporating monograms or sentimental tokens. You can have your new last name or your wedding date embroidered onto the garter, adding a personal touch that will make your big day even more memorable.

Lace and Fabric Details

Lace is a classic choice for wedding garter belts, and you can take it up a notch by choosing a lace pattern that complements your wedding dress or veil. Consider using lace from your mother's or grandmother's veil to infuse your garter with family heritage.

Colorful Accents

Add a pop of color to your garter belt by incorporating colorful accents. This is a great way to include your "something blue" in your wedding ensemble. You can choose from a variety of bright and unexpected colors, such as light blue, purple, red, or black.

Bows and Ruffles

For a playful and flirty touch, add a bow or some ruffles to your garter belt. This can be a fun way to bring attention to your unique accessory.

Matching Lingerie Set

Take your wedding lingerie to the next level by ordering a matching garter and lingerie set. This will create a cohesive look that your spouse will surely adore.

Remember, the key is to have fun and be creative. By adding these special decorations, you'll not only be crafting a beautiful accessory but also creating a cherished memento of your wedding day.

Styling the belt

Styling your wedding garter is an important consideration for brides who want to wear this delicate accessory on their big day. Here are some tips and ideas to help you style your wedding garter belt:

Choose a Design that Complements Your Bridal Accessories

Coordinate the design of your garter belt with your other bridal accessories, such as your belt or veil. This will create a cohesive and stylish look for your wedding ensemble.

Opt for Lace to Match Your Wedding Dress

If you're wearing a lace wedding dress, consider choosing a lace garter belt to complement your dress. This will create a harmonious and elegant look.

Incorporate Your Favourite Colours

Modern wedding garter belts come in a variety of colours, so you can choose one that incorporates your favourite colours or matches your wedding theme. This is a great way to add a personal touch to your accessory.

Add Sentimental Details

You can make your garter belt even more special by incorporating sentimental details, such as monograms, your new last name, or even the date of your wedding. These intimate touches will make your garter belt unique and meaningful.

Include Heirloom Pieces

For an extra special touch, consider incorporating heirloom pieces into your garter belt. For example, you could use lace from your mother's or grandmother's veil to add a sense of family heritage to your accessory.

Opt for a Garter Belt Set

If you plan on doing a garter toss at your wedding, consider purchasing a garter belt set. This way, you'll have one to toss and one to keep as a sentimental reminder of your special day.

Choose Comfort and Functionality

While style is important, it's also crucial to choose a garter belt that is comfortable and functional. Look for a style that fits well on your leg, won't rub against your other leg when you walk, and fits smoothly under your dress.

Garter belt care

Before You Start

Before you begin making your wedding garter belt, it's important to measure the circumference of your thigh to ensure a comfortable fit. This will be the basis for the measurements of your elastic strip and lace.

Materials

When preparing your materials, ensure that you have the correct length of elastic strip and lace by following the measurements outlined in the previous section. You will also need narrow and wide types of lace, a measuring tape, and sewing materials.

Sewing

Before you start sewing, prepare the elastic by sewing its ends to prevent curling or folding. Then, fold the lace in half and sew the ends together. Pin one end of the elastic strip, stretch it out, and secure the end with another pin. Sew the lace onto the elastic strip, and cut off any excess material.

Decorations

Now, you can add decorations such as ribbons, crystals, or pearls. Test the placement of these decorations by trying on the garter belt on your thigh. Ensure that the decorations are positioned correctly and securely attached.

Testing and Adjustments

Test the security of your sewing by gently pulling on the lace and elastic. If you are more experienced with sewing, consider adding a button enclosure to make wearing the belt easier.

Care Instructions

To ensure the longevity of your wedding garter belt, it is important to handle it with care. Hand wash the belt with mild detergent and avoid twisting or wringing it to prevent damage to the fabric and decorations. Lay it flat to air dry, and store it in a cool, dry place when not in use.

Frequently asked questions