Creating A Wedding Ring Pillow: A Simple Guide

A wedding ring pillow is a vessel that helps transport the wedding rings down the aisle. It is carried by the ring bearer and often features ribbons that can be tied to the rings for added safety. The traditional ring pillow is an 8-inch by 8-inch square, but you can choose a different size depending on the age and size of your ring bearer. Making your own wedding ring pillow is a great way to bring a unique touch to your special day and ensure it matches your wedding colours and theme. You can sew or glue the pillow together and decorate it with ribbons, beads or buttons.

Choosing the fabric

The fabric you choose for your wedding ring pillow is important as it should complement your wedding colour scheme, theme, and the ring bearer's attire. Here are some tips for choosing the right fabric:

Choose a Fabric That Matches Your Wedding Colours and Theme

Select a fabric that complements your wedding colours and theme. You can choose any fabric you like, such as satin, cotton, or burlap. If you want to add a unique touch, consider using a different fabric for the front and back of the pillow, such as satin for the front and a plain fabric for the back. Embroidered, chiffon, and organza fabrics can also be used to create an elegant and luxurious look.

Consider the Print and Texture

If your chosen fabric has a print, ensure that it matches your wedding theme. For a rustic wedding, consider using burlap, linen, or canvas. These fabrics can also be used to create a simple and elegant look. For a fancier look, consider using fabrics with rosettes or embroidered details.

Choose the Right Fabric for Your Sewing Method

The type of fabric you choose may depend on your preferred sewing method. If you plan to sew the pillow by hand or machine, almost any fabric will work. However, if you prefer a no-sew method, heavier fabrics such as burlap, linen, or canvas are better options as they hold their shape and can be glued together.

Choose a Fabric That Is Easy to Work With

Consider choosing a fabric that is easy to work with, especially if you are a beginner. Satin and cotton are good options as they are lightweight and easy to cut and sew. If you want to add embellishments like ruffles or lace, choose a fabric that can be easily manipulated and decorated.

Consider the Durability and Cost of the Fabric

Finally, consider the durability and cost of the fabric. If you are looking for an affordable option, Walmart offers many ring bearer pillows for under $10. The fabric you choose should also be durable enough to withstand any potential wear and tear during the wedding ceremony and celebrations.

Sewing the pillow

Now that you have your materials and have cut out your fabric, it's time to start sewing your wedding ring pillow.

Firstly, stack your fabric squares with the right sides together. Secure the edges with pins. Then, sew three of the edges with a 1/4-inch seam allowance. You can use a sewing machine or sew by hand with a straight stitch and a matching thread colour. If you don't know how to sew, you can secure the edges with hot glue or fabric glue and allow it to dry before continuing.

Next, trim the corners to reduce bulk and help your pillow look neater. Cut as close to the stitching as you can without cutting the thread itself. Remember to clip the corners along the edge you've left open, as this will make it easier to sew shut later.

Now, turn the pillow right side out. Use a blunt, pointy object like a knitting needle or pencil to push out the corners. Then, stuff the pillow with polyester filling, foam, or a blank ring pillow.

Finally, close the open seam. Push the stuffing into the pillow so that it doesn't stick out. Fold the raw edges of the opening by 1/4 inch and secure them with sewing pins. Sew the opening shut with a ladder stitch and remove the pins. Alternatively, you can use hot glue or fabric glue to close the opening, working in 1-inch sections at a time.

Adding stuffing

Now that you've sewn your pillow, it's time to stuff it! Polyester stuffing is the best option, but you can also use foam or a plain ring pillow as an alternative.

If you're using the no-sew method, you can stuff your pillow to your desired fullness. Be sure to use your fingers to push the stuffing into the pillow so that it doesn't get caught in the glue.

If you're using the sewing method, push the stuffing into the pillow so that it doesn't stick out. Then, fold the raw edges of the opening in by 1⁄4 inch (0.64 cm) and secure them with sewing pins. Sew the opening shut with a ladder stitch, then remove the pins.

If you don't want to sew, you can use hot glue or fabric glue to close the opening. Work in 1-inch (2.5 cm) sections at a time, pressing and holding each section until it sets before moving on to the next.

Embellishing the pillow

Ribbons and Bows

A simple yet effective way to decorate your wedding pillow is to add ribbons and bows. Choose a colour and material that match your wedding theme and consider adding a brooch or button for a touch of sparkle. You can also use the ribbons to secure the rings to the pillow, ensuring they are safe and secure.

Embroidered Details

If you want to add a personal touch to your pillow, consider embroidering your initials, wedding date or a meaningful quote onto it. This can be done by hand or with an embroidery machine, depending on the level of detail you want to achieve.

Lace Overlay

For a romantic and elegant look, add a lace overlay to your pillow. Cut a square of lace fabric and sew or glue it to the front of your pillow. This is a great way to incorporate vintage or rustic elements into your wedding.

Ruffled Trims

Ruffled lace or fabric trims can add a romantic and whimsical touch to your wedding pillow. Pin the trim to the front of your pillow and sew it in place before assembling the rest of the pillow.

Nature-Inspired Details

If you're having a rustic or outdoor wedding, bring the outdoors in by adding nature-inspired details to your pillow. This could include dried flowers, greenery, twine or even a small bird's nest.

Beads, Buttons and Charms

Add some sparkle and shine to your pillow by sewing or gluing on beads, buttons or charms. Choose something meaningful to you and your partner, such as a horseshoe for good luck or a heart for love.

Tassels and Cording

For a lavish and elegant touch, add tassels or cording to the seams of your pillow. You can make your own tassels using matching embroidery thread or buy ready-made ones.

Remember, the key to embellishing your wedding pillow is to choose details that reflect your personal style and the theme of your wedding. Have fun and get creative!

Tying the rings

If you have chosen to use a ribbon to secure the rings, you can thread both rings onto one of the strings and then tie both strings into a knot or a bow. You can also use a simple knot to secure the rings, and then hide the knot by tying a decorative bow over it. If you are using a slipknot, fold the string in half to create a loop behind the ribbon, then pull the ends of the string through the loop and tighten.

If you are using a safety pin to secure the rings, simply tie a knot around the centre of the band to keep it in place, then tie the rings onto the ribbon.

Frequently asked questions