Crafting A Wedding Ring Bearer Pillow: A Step-By-Step Guide

A wedding ring pillow is a vessel that helps transport the wedding rings down the aisle. It is usually carried by a young person, the ring bearer, and often features ribbons that can be tied to the rings for added safety. Making your own ring pillow is an easy way to bring a unique touch to your special day. You can choose the fabric, colour and size of your pillow, and even add your own personal touches such as embroidery or a unique shape.

Choosing the fabric

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

• Fabric type: The type of fabric you choose will depend on the overall style and theme of your wedding. Common fabric choices include satin, cotton, and burlap. If you're having a rustic-themed wedding, for example, burlap would be a perfect choice. For a more elegant or formal wedding, you might opt for satin or silk. Consider using a combination of fabrics for a unique look.
• Fabric colour: Choose a colour that complements your wedding colour scheme. You can either match the colour exactly or choose a shade that coordinates well. If you're having a beach wedding, for instance, you might choose a light blue or sandy colour for your pillow.
• Fabric print: If you want your fabric to have a print, be sure that it complements your wedding theme. For example, if you're having a summer wedding, you could choose a fabric with a floral print.
• Fabric weight: Consider the weight and thickness of the fabric. A heavier fabric, such as burlap or canvas, will give the pillow a more rustic or textured look, while a lighter fabric like cotton or silk will give it a more delicate appearance.
• Fabric embellishments: Embellishments such as lace, embroidery, or beading can add a touch of elegance or whimsy to your pillow. For example, you could choose a simple burlap pillow with a lace overlay, or a satin pillow with embroidered flowers.
• Personalization: Consider adding a personal touch to your pillow by embroidering your initials, wedding date, or a special message. This will make your pillow even more meaningful and can turn it into a cherished family heirloom.
• Fabric availability: When choosing your fabric, consider the availability and cost. Some fabrics may be harder to find or more expensive than others. Shop around and compare prices to find the best option for your budget.

Cutting the fabric

When choosing the fabric, go with something that complements your wedding colours and theme. Popular options include satin, cotton, and burlap, but you can also choose a unique fabric like embroidered cloth or chiffon. If you want to add a rustic touch, consider burlap, linen, or canvas. Don't forget to check if the fabric has a print that goes well with your wedding theme.

Once you have your fabric squares, stack them with the right sides together. This means you'll have one square facing up and the other facing down on top of it. Secure the edges with pins to keep them in place.

Now you're ready to start sewing! Sew three of the four edges together, leaving one side open. You can use a sewing machine or sew by hand with a straight stitch, making sure to use matching thread. If sewing isn't your forte, you can also secure the edges with hot glue or fabric glue and allow it to dry before moving on to the next step.

Sewing the fabric

First, select your fabric. Cut two 10-inch squares of fabric. You can use anything you like, such as satin, cotton, or burlap. If your fabric has a print, make sure it matches your wedding colours and theme. You can also make the pillow a different size, just be sure to add a 1/2-inch seam to the length and width.

Next, stack the squares with the right sides together. Place the second square on top of the first, with the right side facing down. Secure the edges with pins.

Now, sew three of the edges with a 1/4-inch seam allowance. You can use a sewing machine or sew it by hand. Use 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.

Then, trim the corners. This step is optional but will help reduce bulk and give your pillow a nicer look. Cut as close to the stitching as possible without cutting the thread. Be sure to clip the corners along the edge you left open to make it easier to sew shut later.

Stuffing the pillow

Now that you have your fabric squares sewn together, it's time to stuff your ring bearer pillow. Polyester stuffing will work best, but you can also use a piece of foam, a blank ring pillow, or a mini pillow insert. If you're using polyester stuffing, you can buy it at most craft stores.

Once you've chosen your filling, stuff the pillow to your desired fullness. Be sure not to overstuff, as this will make it difficult to close the pillow. Gently push the filling into the corners of the pillow, being careful not to poke through the fabric with your tool.

When you're happy with the amount of filling, it's time to close up the pillow. Fold the raw edges of the opening in by 1/4 inch (0.64 cm) and secure them with sewing pins. Then, hand sew the opening shut with a ladder stitch, removing the pins as you go. Alternatively, you can use hot glue or fabric glue to close the pillow, working in 1-inch (2.5 cm) sections at a time.

Adding the finishing touches

Now that you've made your wedding ring bearer pillow, it's time to add the finishing touches. Here are some ideas to elevate your design:

Embellishments

Add some embellishments to your pillow to make it stand out. You can use ribbons, beads or buttons that match your wedding colour scheme. Sew or glue them onto the finished pillow. You could also add a strip of ribbon under the pillow for the ring bearer to hold onto.

Heirloom Details

If you have access to a family heirloom ring pillow, featuring it at the ceremony is a lovely way to honour tradition. You could also use a family heirloom fabric to make your pillow, or ask your ring bearer to carry a family heirloom down the aisle alongside the rings.

Personalisation

Add a personal touch to your ring pillow by embroidering your initials, wedding date or monogram. You could also add a special message to be discovered later.

Nature-inspired Details

If you're going for a rustic or woodland theme, incorporate natural elements into your design. Consider using burlap, lace, twine and dried flowers to decorate your pillow. You could also use a bird's nest or a wooden ring box to hold the rings.

Unique Shapes

Ring bearer pillows don't have to be square! Experiment with different shapes like circles, hearts or rectangles. You could also use a ring dish or a ring box instead of a pillow.

Fabric Choices

Try using unique fabrics like burlap, chiffon or organza for your pillow. You could also add a lace overlay or ruffled trim to elevate your design.

Frequently asked questions