Creating A Wedding Lasso: A Step-By-Step Guide

A wedding lasso is a Mexican tradition that can be expensive to buy, so it may be worth making your own. You can personalise the style, number and size of beads, and even pass it down as an heirloom. If you're not sure where to start, you can find inspiration online, including YouTube videos and photos from real couples.

Choosing materials: silk rope, rosary, or pearls

The wedding lasso rosary, also known as el lazo, is a symbol of unity in Mexican, Filipino, and Spanish communities. The rosary is placed around the couple by their wedding sponsors, el padrino and la madrina, in a figure-eight shape to symbolise eternity.

When choosing materials for your wedding lasso, you can opt for silk rope, a rosary, or pearls. Here are some things to consider for each option:

Silk Rope

Silk rope is an elegant and simple choice for a wedding lasso. It can be left plain or adorned with flowers, glitter rhinestones, or other decorations to match your wedding theme. If you're looking for a more rustic or bohemian aesthetic, consider a silk flower arrangement or a simple white or beige rope.

Rosary

The rosary is a popular choice for Catholic weddings, symbolising the couple's unity under God. You can opt for a traditional rosary made of pearls or crystals, or choose a more unique style with silver or gold accents. The rosary lasso is typically made by linking two rosaries together, joined by a crucifix in the centre.

Pearls

Pearls are a classic and sophisticated choice, adding a touch of elegance to your wedding lasso. You can find imitation pearls or opt for more expensive options like Swarovski crystals. Pearls can be combined with gold or silver accents for a refined look, or left on their own for a simpler design.

When selecting your materials, consider the overall theme and colour scheme of your wedding, as well as any cultural or religious traditions you wish to incorporate.

Length of strings

The length of the strings used in a wedding lasso is important to ensure that it hangs elegantly during the ceremony. The ideal length will depend on the height of the couple and the size of the wedding loop desired.

As a general rule, the length of the strings should be proportional to the height of the bride and groom. For a couple of average height, strings measuring between 6 and 8 feet in length should be sufficient. If the couple is taller or prefers a larger loop, strings up to 10 feet in length can be used.

It is important to consider the thickness of the string or rope when determining the length. Thicker materials will require longer lengths to create the desired loop size, while thinner materials may need less length.

When deciding on the length of the strings, it is a good idea to allow for some extra length to account for any mistakes or adjustments that may be needed during the crafting process. This will ensure that the final product is the perfect size and can be comfortably held by the couple during their wedding ceremony.

In terms of specific measurements, some sources suggest that the length of the strings should be approximately 1.5 times the height of the bride and groom. This allows for a comfortable fit while also creating a visually appealing loop. However, the exact length is ultimately a matter of personal preference and can be adjusted to suit the couple's unique needs and style.

Number and size of beads

The number and size of beads you will need for your wedding lasso will depend on the style and length you desire. If you are unsure about the length, consider the average height of the couple and add a few extra inches to allow for adjustments.

For a simple and elegant design, you can use a single strand of beads. In this case, you will need a substantial number of beads, ranging from 50 to 100, depending on their size. Smaller beads will require a greater quantity to achieve the desired length, whereas larger beads will need fewer to achieve the same result.

If you prefer a more intricate design, you can opt for multiple strands of beads. This style often involves using three or more strands of beads twisted or braided together. For this design, you will need an equal number of beads for each strand, typically ranging from 30 to 50 beads per strand. Again, the size of the beads will determine the overall quantity needed.

The size of the beads can vary depending on your preference and the overall effect you wish to achieve. Smaller beads, such as seed beads, will create a delicate and subtle appearance, whereas larger beads, such as pearls or rosary beads, will make a bolder statement. It's important to consider the weight of the beads, especially if you choose larger ones, as you want to ensure the lasso remains comfortable to wear during the ceremony.

When selecting the beads, consider the colour, shape, and material to ensure they complement the wedding theme and the couple's attire. You can opt for traditional white or ivory beads or add a touch of colour to match the wedding colours.

Style and colour

When it comes to the style and colour of your wedding lasso, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, decide on the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve. Do you want a classic and elegant look, or something more modern and unique? The colour of the rope or cord is an important consideration; traditional wedding lassos are often made in white or off-white to symbolise purity and new beginnings. However, there is room for creativity if you want to add a pop of colour to your lasso. You could choose a colour that matches your wedding theme or the colours of your dress or suit.

Another style element to consider is the type of rope or cord you will use. Options include silk rope, which can give a luxurious and elegant feel, especially if you choose a coloured rope. Alternatively, you could opt for a more rustic look with a natural-coloured cord made from cotton or hemp. If you want to add a religious element to your lasso, you can incorporate rosary beads, either by stringing them along the cord or using them as a decorative element at the ends.

The length of the lasso is also an important consideration. Traditionally, the lasso should be long enough to be placed over the shoulders of the couple during the ceremony, so ensure you measure the length accordingly. You can also add decorative elements such as ribbons, flowers, or other meaningful charms to the ends of the lasso to personalise it and make it even more special.

Lastly, don't be afraid to browse online for inspiration. Websites like Etsy often feature unique, handmade wedding lassos that can give you ideas for your own creation. Remember, your wedding lasso should reflect your personal style and the overall theme of your wedding day.

Cost of materials

The cost of materials for a wedding lasso can vary depending on the type of materials used and the desired length and style of the final product. Here is a breakdown of the potential costs:

Rosary-style wedding lassos made with pearls and silver-tone accents can range from $58 to $100. These lassos are often purchased online from specialty stores.

Alternatively, some people opt for white silk rope to create their wedding lasso, which can be more affordable. The price of the silk rope will depend on its quality and length, but it is generally a less expensive option than the beaded or pearl versions.

If you are crafty and want to add personal touches, you can source the materials separately. Beads or pearls can be purchased in bulk online or from craft stores, and the string or rope can be bought separately as well. This option allows for more customisation in terms of colour, size, and length. The cost will depend on the type and quality of materials chosen.

It is worth noting that some people choose to borrow a wedding lasso from friends or family members, especially if they want to incorporate a traditional element into their ceremony without incurring additional costs.

Frequently asked questions