Create Your Own Wedding Garter: A Step-By-Step Guide

Making your own wedding garter is a fun and easy DIY project that can add a personal touch to your big day. In this tutorial, we'll guide you through the simple process of creating a custom garter that reflects your unique style and theme. Whether you're looking for a traditional or modern design, this step-by-step guide will teach you how to make a wedding garter that is both beautiful and comfortable. So, get your sewing kit ready, and let's begin crafting this special accessory for your wedding!

Measure your leg

To make your own wedding garter, you'll first need to measure your leg to ensure a perfect fit. It's recommended that you wear your garter on either leg, just above your knee—generally 3-6" above. This will ensure that the garter doesn't rub on your other leg when you walk or dance, but also that it's not so low that it falls down.

To measure your leg, you'll need a tape measure or a piece of string and a ruler. It's best to take the measurement while standing up, as you'll be standing for most of your wedding day. You can ask a friend to help you. Take the tape measure or string and wrap it around the part of your leg where you want to wear the garter. This is usually just above the knee. If using string, place it against a ruler to get the desired length. Ensure that the string or tape measure is form-fitting but not too tight or too loose.

The number you get is your measurement. You can then compare this to the standard sizing on the packaging of a pre-made garter to ensure a good fit. If you are having a custom garter made, provide this number to your designer. If your measurement is at the higher end of the standard range, consider sizing up to ensure the garter isn't too tight.

If you are making your own garter, you can use this measurement to cut your elastic to size. For example, if your leg circumference is 14", you would cut your elastic to 11" to ensure the garter stays in place.

Cut the lace

The first step in making a wedding garter is to cut the lace to the correct length. It's important to measure the lace carefully before cutting, as the final product can also be worn as a headband. The length of the lace will depend on the circumference of the leg of the person who will be wearing the garter. A common method is to measure the circumference of the leg where the garter will be worn and then add 7 inches to that measurement to allow for gathering. For example, if the circumference of the leg is 14 inches, the final measurement for the lace would be 21 inches.

It is also important to choose a stretchy type of lace so that the garter will fit comfortably and securely on the leg without falling down.

Once you have measured and cut the lace to the correct length, you can move on to the next step of sewing on any desired embellishments, such as appliqués, buttons, or rhinestones.

Sew the lace to the ribbon

To sew the lace to the ribbon, start by placing the ribbon on top of the lace and pinning it in place. You can then begin stitching along the edges of the ribbon. It's important to keep your stitching as straight as possible. Sew one edge of the ribbon to the lace first, and then sew the opposite edge of the ribbon to the lace.

When sewing lace to fabric, it is recommended to use a zig-zag stitch. However, this may not be necessary when sewing lace to ribbon, as the ribbon will likely be more flexible. If you are concerned about the durability of your garter, a zig-zag stitch can add extra security.

Additionally, consider the type of lace you are using. If your lace has a raw top edge, finish it first with a narrow hem before sewing it to the ribbon. Also, ensure that you are using sharp pins and machine needles that will not catch or snag your lace.

Finally, remember to pre-wash your lace and ribbon before sewing. This is an important step to ensure that your materials do not shrink unevenly after your garter is complete.

Attach the elastic

Attaching the Elastic

Now that you have your lace, ribbon, and elastic cut to size, it's time to attach the elastic to the lace and ribbon. This will ensure that your garter stays securely on your leg. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Start by taking a large safety pin and attaching it to one end of your elastic. This will help you guide the elastic through the casing created by the lace and ribbon. Insert the safety pin and elastic into the casing, going between the layers of ribbon and lace. You will notice that the lace begins to gather as you guide the elastic through. Be careful to not lose the other end of the elastic!

Once you have guided the elastic all the way through, you should have both ends of the elastic protruding from one side. Pin both ends to keep them secure and ensure you don't lose them. Now, with the right sides of the ribbon facing each other, sew down the side of the lace. This will be the last seam of your garter. Trim any loose threads for a neat finish.

At this point, your garter is almost complete! Turn your garter right side out, and you will have a beautiful, custom garter for your wedding day. You can add any final embellishments, such as a charm or button, to personalise it further.

If you want to add some extra security, consider doing a zig-zag stitch along the cut ends of the elastic. This will ensure that your garter stays intact, even during the most energetic wedding celebrations!

Decorate the garter

Decorating your wedding garter is a fun and creative part of the process. You can make it as simple or ornate as you like.

Firstly, decide on the fabric and colour. You can use scraps of satin fabric or wide ribbon, or even fabric from the wedding dress itself, as seen in one DIY project. The most popular colours are white or blue, but you can choose any hue. If you want to include the 'something blue' tradition, a blue garter is a great way to do so.

Next, you can add some embellishments. You could use lace, rhinestones, crystals, or a vintage button. You could also add a charm with the initials of your partner, or the date of the wedding. Some people like to add a 'tossing garter' which is simpler and can be thrown to the crowd, while the main garter is kept as a keepsake.

If you are using a glue gun, a dot of hot glue will be enough to attach your chosen decorations. However, if you are selling the garters, it is recommended to sew on the embellishments for security.

Finally, you can add some blue seam binding to finish off the garter, or use a zig-zag stitch to finish the cut ends.

Frequently asked questions