Creating A Wedding Cord: Diy Guide For Couples

Handfasting cords are a meaningful and creative way to symbolise unity and commitment in a wedding ceremony. They can be made using macrame cord, faux leather cord, or even ribbon, and embellished with charms, beads, or embroidery. The length of the cord should be long enough to wrap around the wrists of the couple comfortably during the ceremony, with enough length left over for the traditional handfasting ritual. Couples can choose to make their own handfasting cords to add a personal and sentimental touch to their wedding ceremony, incorporating specific colours, symbols, or charms to make it unique and meaningful.

Choosing a base cord

The first step in making a DIY wedding cord is selecting the base cord. This will serve as the foundation for your handfasting cord, providing structure and support for the decorative elements you'll add later. Here are some things to consider when choosing your base cord:

Material

The most popular options for the base cord are macrame cord and faux leather cord. Macrame cord is widely available and affordable, making it a convenient choice for many couples. It also comes in a variety of colours, allowing you to choose one that matches your wedding theme or holds special meaning for you. Faux leather cord, on the other hand, offers a sleek and elegant look and feels smooth and luxurious. It is also a strong and durable option, ensuring your cord remains intact for years to come.

Thickness

The thickness of your base cord will impact the overall look and feel of your handfasting cord. A thicker base cord will result in a more substantial and noticeable final product, while a thinner base cord will create a delicate and subtle appearance. Consider the size of your hands and wrists, as well as the desired number of strands, when making your decision.

Length

When choosing the length of your base cord, it's important to keep in mind the traditional handfasting ritual and ensure the cord is long enough to comfortably wrap around your wrists during the ceremony. Measure and cut the cord accordingly, allowing for enough length to tie a knot or attach a decorative clasp at the ends.

Colour

As mentioned earlier, selecting a colour that complements your wedding theme or holds symbolic value for you is a great way to personalise your handfasting cord. Whether you opt for a subtle neutral or a vibrant hue, ensure it aligns with your overall vision for the wedding cord.

Texture

The texture of your base cord can add interest and dimension to your handfasting cord. Consider whether you prefer a smooth and sleek texture, like that of faux leather, or a more textured and woven look, like macrame cord. The texture you choose will also influence how other materials, such as ribbons or charms, lie on top of the base cord.

Durability

If you plan to keep your handfasting cord as a cherished memento, durability should be a key consideration when choosing the base cord. Opt for materials that are strong and long-lasting, ensuring they can withstand the test of time and any potential wear and tear during the ceremony.

In summary, selecting the right base cord for your DIY wedding cord involves considering factors such as material, thickness, length, colour, texture, and durability. Take the time to explore different options and choose a base cord that aligns with your personal style, theme, and budget. This foundation will set the tone for the entire project, so choose wisely and enjoy the process of crafting your unique handfasting cord!

Wrapping a decorative layer

To make a decorative layer for your wedding cord, you can follow these steps:

Firstly, select a thin satin ribbon in a colour that matches your wedding theme or holds a special meaning for you as a couple. This ribbon will be wrapped around the base cord, so choose a colour that complements it well. You can opt for a single colour or multiple colours, depending on your preference.

Next, take your chosen ribbon and begin wrapping it around the base cord. Ensure that you are wrapping it tightly and evenly, creating a smooth and consistent layer. Take your time with this step, as a neat wrapping will enhance the overall appearance of your cord.

If you are using multiple colours of ribbon, you can alternate them as you wrap, creating a striped pattern. Alternatively, you can wrap one colour around one section of the base cord and another colour around a different section, creating distinct blocks of colour.

Continue wrapping the ribbon until you are happy with the coverage and the overall look of your decorative layer. You may wish to leave some gaps to showcase the base cord or any charms or beads you have added.

Once you have finished wrapping, secure the ends of the ribbon with a small amount of glue or by melting the ends with a lighter to seal them, ensuring that your decorative layer remains in place.

You can now add any further embellishments, such as charms, beads, or embroidery, to add extra detail and meaning to your handfasting cord.

Adding embellishments

Beads, Crystals and Pearls

Small pearl or crystal beads can be added to lace or fabric on your wedding cord. When choosing beads, consider the weight of the fabric. Lightweight fabric can only hold so much weight. You can also add crystal beads in various sizes and shapes, creating a simple or extravagant design.

Lace and Appliques

Lace is a popular choice for adding elegance and romance to your wedding cord. You can purchase a lace appliqué, which is ready to sew on, or select a small section of lace pattern and cut around it. You can also add beads or sequins to the lace before attaching it to your cord.

Ribbons and Bows

Ribbons are a simple way to embellish your wedding cord. You can braid them together or add them as an overlay to change the design. Bows can be created by sewing or manually tying ribbons, adding a delicate touch to your cord.

Sequins and Glitter

For a touch of sparkle, consider adding sequins to your wedding cord. You can sew them directly onto the cord or add them to a piece of lace or fabric first. If you want a more subtle shimmer, try using glitter fabric or shimmering thread embroidery.

Charms

Small charms can be added to your wedding cord for a unique touch. You can find charms in various shapes and styles, such as hearts, leaves, or other symbols that hold meaning for you.

When adding embellishments to your wedding cord, it's important to consider the overall design and not overload it with too many decorations. Choose a few types of embellishments that complement each other and the colour and style of your cord. You can also seek inspiration from online sources or consult a professional for guidance.

Securing the ends

Tying a Knot:

One of the simplest ways to secure the ends of your cord is by tying a knot. Depending on the type of cord you are using, you can tie a single knot or a series of knots to ensure the ends don't come undone. Practice tying the knot a few times to ensure it holds securely.

Decorative Clasps:

If you want to add a touch of elegance to your cord, consider using decorative clasps to secure the ends. You can find various types of clasps at craft stores or online, such as lobster clasps, toggle clasps, or magnetic clasps. Choose a clasp that complements the overall style and theme of your wedding cord.

Adhesives:

In some cases, you may opt to use an adhesive to secure the ends of your cord, especially if you are working with materials like ribbon or fabric. Select an appropriate adhesive based on the type of material you are using. For example, fabric glue can be used for ribbons, while hot glue can be applied to a variety of surfaces.

Braiding or Weaving:

Another way to secure the ends of your cord is by braiding or weaving them together. This technique not only creates a secure finish but also adds visual interest to your cord. Experiment with different braiding techniques, such as a standard three-strand braid or a flat braid, to find the one that suits your cord best.

Finishing Techniques:

To ensure the ends of your cord remain secure, consider using finishing techniques such as melting or sealing. If you are working with synthetic cord, you can carefully melt the ends with a lighter to prevent fraying. Alternatively, you can use a sealant or clear nail polish to coat the ends and prevent them from unraveling.

Remember, when securing the ends of your DIY wedding cord, it's important to consider the overall length you desire. Ensure that the cord is long enough to comfortably wrap around your wrists during the ceremony. Practicing the handfasting ritual beforehand will also help you determine the appropriate length and ensure that the ends are securely fastened.

Practising the ritual

Start by familiarising yourself with the basic movements of the ritual. Practice tying the knot with your partner, ensuring you are both comfortable with the process. This will help you perform the ritual gracefully and smoothly during your wedding.

Consider the length of your cord and how it will be wrapped around your wrists. You may want to practice with a similar cord of the desired length to ensure it feels comfortable and secure. Adjust the length as needed to achieve the perfect fit.

Incorporate any embellishments or decorations you've added to your cord, such as charms, beads, or embroidery. Practising with the final version of your cord will help you feel more familiar with the ritual and ensure that everything looks and feels just right.

If you are including any specific colours, symbols, or other personal touches, make sure to include them in your practice sessions. This will allow you to see how everything comes together and make any necessary adjustments.

Practise in front of a mirror to get a sense of how the ritual will look during your wedding. This will help you refine your movements and ensure that your body language and gestures are graceful and confident.

Finally, don't be afraid to add your own personal touches and creative elements to the ritual. This is your special day, and practising the ritual will help you make it even more meaningful and memorable.

Frequently asked questions