Handmade Wedding Garters: A Step-By-Step Guide

Making a wedding garter by hand is a simple project that can be completed in under an hour. All you need is some lace, ribbon, elastic, and basic sewing skills. The process involves measuring and cutting the materials to the correct length, sewing the ribbon to the lace, and then attaching elastic to ensure the garter stays in place. You can also add decorations such as buttons, beads, or rhinestones to make it more personalised. This DIY project allows you to add a unique touch to your wedding and can even be a fun gift idea for the bride.

Choosing materials: lace, ribbon, elastic, buttons, charms

The materials you choose for your wedding garter will depend on the style and colour scheme of your wedding, as well as your own personal preferences. Here are some things to consider when choosing your materials:

Lace

Lace is a traditional choice for wedding garters and can add a delicate and romantic touch to your garter. Look for stretchy lace that will be comfortable to wear and won't fall down your leg. The length of the lace will depend on the circumference of your leg and the desired amount of gathering. You can choose from a variety of lace patterns, such as scalloped or ruffled edges, to create the look you want.

Ribbon

Ribbon is another important component of your wedding garter. Choose a ribbon that complements the colour and style of your lace. Satin or grosgrain ribbon in a width of 1-inch is commonly used for wedding garters. Cut the ribbon to the desired length, usually around 52 inches, and consider using two pieces of ribbon for a more secure garter.

Elastic

Elastic is essential for ensuring your garter stays in place. Measure the circumference of your leg where you plan to wear the garter and subtract a few inches to get the correct length for your elastic. This will ensure a snug but comfortable fit. Pin a safety pin to one end of the elastic to help guide it through the ribbon and lace when assembling your garter.

Buttons, Charms, and Other Embellishments

You can personalise your garter with buttons, charms, rhinestones, or other embellishments. Choose decorations that reflect your style and the theme of your wedding. For example, you could add a vintage-looking button, a charm with the initial of your partner, or rhinestones for a touch of sparkle. These embellishments can be sewn on or attached with a glue gun, depending on your preference.

When choosing your materials, consider the colour scheme of your wedding and whether you want to incorporate any traditional elements, such as "something blue". You can also use fabric or embellishments from your wedding dress to create a coordinated look.

Measuring the lace and ribbon

The first step to making a wedding garter is to measure the lace and ribbon. This will ensure that the garter fits comfortably and securely on the leg.

Start by measuring the circumference of your leg where you want to wear the garter. This measurement will determine the length of your ribbon and lace. For example, if the circumference of your leg is 14", cut your ribbon and lace to a length of 21" (adding 7" to allow for gathering).

It's important to use stretchy lace so that the garter stays in place and doesn't fall down your leg. You can also use narrow satin ribbon and narrow elastic for a delicate and elegant look.

Once you have measured and cut your lace and ribbon to the desired length, you can move on to the next step of sewing them together.

The length of the elastic will be shorter than the ribbon and lace. For example, if your leg circumference is 14", cut your elastic to a length of 11" (subtracting 3" from the original measurement). This will ensure that the garter fits snugly and securely on your leg.

Now that you have measured and cut your materials, you are ready to start assembling your wedding garter!

Sewing the ribbon to the lace

Now that you've measured and cut your lace and ribbon to size, it's time to sew them together!

First, centre the ribbon on top of the lace and pin it in place. You can use a few straight pins to secure the ribbon to the lace. This will make it easier to sew. Try to keep the ribbon as centred as possible, with an even amount of lace on either side.

Next, you'll want to sew the ribbon to the lace. Using thread that matches your ribbon, sew along the edges of the ribbon, keeping your stitching as straight as possible. Sewing by hand? Try to keep your stitches small and close together for a neat finish. If you're using a sewing machine, a straight stitch will work well here.

Once you've sewn one side of the ribbon to the lace, repeat the process for the other side. Again, keep your stitches as straight as possible and try to sew as close to the edge of the ribbon as you can.

At this point, your ribbon should be securely attached to your lace. If you like, you can add some additional stitching for extra security. You can also add some decorative stitching in a contrasting colour, or sew on some beads or buttons for a bit of sparkle.

And that's it! You've now sewn your ribbon to your lace. The next step will be to attach the elastic to create a comfortable, adjustable garter.

Adding elastic to the garter

Firstly, measure the circumference of your leg where you plan to wear the garter. For a secure fit, add 7" to this measurement to determine the length of your ribbon and lace. For the elastic, subtract 3" from your initial leg measurement. For example, if your leg circumference is 14", cut your ribbon and lace to 21" and your elastic to 11".

Now, take your cut piece of elastic and attach a large safety pin to one end. Thread the safety pin and elastic between the layers of ribbon and lace. As you guide the elastic through, the lace will start to gather. Be careful not to lose the other end of the elastic. Once the elastic is fully threaded, pin both ends to secure them in place.

Next, with the right sides of the ribbon facing each other, sew down the side of the lace. This will be the final seam of your garter. Trim any loose threads and the edge for a neat finish. You can also do a zig-zag stitch along the cut ends for extra security.

Turn your garter right side out, and you're done! You now have a beautiful, custom-made wedding garter that fits securely and comfortably.

Decorating the garter

Ribbons

Cut three 6-inch pieces of 1/4-inch-wide ribbon. Keeping one side of the ribbon up, loop it and lay it on top of itself. Repeat this process for all three pieces, pinning the overlap in place. Then, lay all the sections on top of each other and fan out the loops. Sew the loops in place by hand. Sew a decoration, such as a button or bead, on top of the loop intersection. You could also use a novelty ribbon, such as one for a sports team, for a fun touch.

Rhinestones

Arrange hot fix rhinestones around an appliqué and set them in place with an iron or rhinestone setter.

Charms

Add a charm with the initial of your groom-to-be. Open a jump ring and clasp it around the lace.

Buttons

Sew a vintage-looking button as an embellishment.

Embroidery

Use a solid fabric instead of ruffled lace and embroider the couple's initials and wedding date on it.

Frequently asked questions