Crafting A Wedding Ring Cushion: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding ring cushions are a great way to bring a unique touch to your special day. They are a popular wedding tradition, with the wedding rings resting on the pillow as the ring bearer carries them to the altar. Making your own pillow is easy and ensures that it matches the overall theme of your wedding. You can choose the fabric, colour, and design, and even add personal touches such as your initials and the date of your wedding. You can also decide whether to sew or glue the cushion together, depending on your crafting preferences. So, if you're looking for a fun and creative project for your upcoming nuptials, why not give it a go?

Sewing a simple pillow

To make a wedding ring cushion, you'll first need to sew a simple pillow. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do that:

Cutting the Fabric

First, select your fabric. You'll want to cut two squares of fabric that are the same size. The size can vary depending on your preference, but a standard size for a throw pillow is 18" by 18". If you want a smaller or larger pillow, 16" x 16" or 24" x 24" are also common sizes. Don't forget to add a seam allowance to each edge, which is usually around 1/2 inch.

Pinning the Fabric

Once you have your fabric cut, place the squares right sides together. This means that the sides of the fabric that you want to be visible when the pillow is finished should be facing each other. Secure the edges with pins to hold the fabric in place.

Sewing the Pillow

Now it's time to sew! You can use a sewing machine or hand sew the pillow. Sew three of the edges together, leaving one edge open. Use a straight stitch and matching thread color for a seamless look. If you don't know how to sew, you can also secure the edges with hot glue or fabric glue.

Trimming the Corners

Before turning the pillow right side out, you can trim the corners to reduce bulk and create a nicer finish. Cut as close to the stitching as possible without cutting through the thread. Be sure to clip the corners of the edge you left open, as this will make it easier to sew shut later.

Turning and Stuffing the Pillow

Now, turn the pillow right side out through the opening. Use a blunt and pointy tool, such as a knitting needle or pencil, to push out the corners for a crisp finish. Once the pillow is turned out, it's time to stuff it! Polyester stuffing is a great option, but you can also use foam or a pre-made pillow insert.

Closing the Seam

Push the stuffing into the pillow so it doesn't get caught when you close the seam. Fold the raw edges of the opening in by about 1/4 inch and secure them with pins. You can then hand sew the opening shut with a ladder stitch or machine stitch it closed. If you don't want to sew, you can also use hot glue or fabric glue to close the opening.

And there you have it! You've sewn a simple pillow that can be used as a base for your wedding ring cushion. Now you can add embellishments, ribbons, or bows to decorate your cushion and attach the rings.

Making a no-sew pillow

Step 1: Choose Your Fabric

Select a heavy fabric such as burlap, linen, or canvas in a colour that complements your wedding theme. Cut two 10-inch squares of fabric, or adjust the size to your preference, adding 1 inch to the length and width for a larger cushion.

Step 2: Prepare the Fabric

Clip the corners of each fabric square by 1/4 inch to reduce bulk and help conceal raw edges. Turn the fabric so that the wrong side is facing you, and create a 1/4-inch hem by folding and pressing each edge. Repeat this step for both pieces of fabric.

Step 3: Glue the Hems

Apply hot glue or fabric glue along the edge of one of the hems, then press it back down. Repeat this process for all the hems on both fabric squares. Trim any frayed bits of fabric sticking out.

Step 4: Assemble the Cushion

Place one square with the wrong side facing up, and glue three edges of the second square on top, ensuring the right side is facing up. Leave the fourth edge open and allow the glue to dry.

Step 5: Stuffing

Fill the cushion with polyester stuffing, a piece of foam, a mini pillow insert, or a plain ring pillow of the same size. Ensure the pillow is stuffed to your desired fullness.

Step 6: Final Touches

Use hot glue or fabric glue to seal the final seam, working in 1-inch sections. Adjust the ribbon and string to your desired length, then tie a slip knot to secure the rings to the pillow. Form a bow with the ribbon, positioning it in the centre of the pillow. Trim and singe any frayed ends, then tie the rings to the pillow.

Decorating a ring pillow

There are many ways to decorate a ring pillow for your wedding. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Fabric and Colour

Firstly, consider the fabric and colour of your pillow. You could opt for a simple fabric such as satin, cotton, or burlap, or go for something more unique like burlap, linen, or canvas. Choose a colour that matches your wedding theme. If you want to add a rustic touch, consider using burlap, linen, or canvas. For a fancier look, try silk, satin, or velvet. You could also use a combination of fabrics, such as a fancy embroidered fabric for the front and a plain fabric for the back.

Embellishments

• Add a lace overlay to your pillow by cutting a square of lace fabric and sewing it to the front of your pillow.
• Embellish the pillow with ribbon rosettes or ruffled trims.
• Create a tufted look by sewing a few stitches through the centre of the pillow to form an X. Then, cover the X with a ribbon bow.
• Add a corded trim and tassels for a lavish touch.
• Attach a symbolic charm, such as a horseshoe or a heart, to the bow.
• Embroider the fabric by hand or with an embroidery machine before assembling the pillow.

Shape

Instead of a traditional square pillow, you could also experiment with different shapes, such as a circle, heart, or rectangle.

Choosing the right fabric

When making a wedding ring cushion, choosing the right fabric is essential to achieving the desired look and feel. Here are some factors to consider when selecting your fabric:

Colour and Pattern

The colour and pattern of the fabric should complement your wedding theme and colour palette. Consider whether you want a solid colour or a print that matches your wedding colours. If you're aiming for a rustic look, you might opt for fabrics like burlap, linen, or canvas. For a more elegant and sophisticated look, you could choose satin or silk. Embroidered fabrics or fabrics with rosettes can add a unique and fancy touch.

Fabric Type

The type of fabric you choose will impact the overall appearance and texture of the cushion. Consider the weight, sheen, and drape of the fabric. For a simple and elegant look, satin or silk can be a good choice. If you want a more textured or rustic appearance, you might opt for burlap or linen. Keep in mind that some fabrics, like satin, may be more slippery and challenging to work with.

Fabric Weight and Durability

Consider the weight and durability of the fabric, especially if you plan to add embellishments or decorations. Heavier fabrics like canvas or linen can provide a sturdy base for embroidery or other decorative elements. If you plan to add lace or trim, choose a fabric that can support the additional weight and details.

Fabric Care

Think about the care instructions for the fabric. Some fabrics may require special handling, like dry cleaning or hand washing. If you want a fabric that is easy to care for and can be machine washed, look for options that are durable and less delicate.

Amount of Fabric Needed

Determine the amount of fabric required for your project. Wedding ring cushions are typically small, so you won't need a large quantity of fabric. However, if you plan to make multiple cushions or have a specific design in mind, ensure you purchase enough fabric to account for any mistakes or additional features.

Fabric Combinations

You don't have to limit yourself to a single fabric. Combining different fabrics can add interest and texture to your wedding ring cushion. For example, you could use a fancy embroidered fabric for the front and a plain fabric for the back. This can also be a cost-effective approach if you want to include more expensive fabrics in your design.

Adding a unique touch

Making your own wedding ring cushion is a great way to bring a unique touch to your special day. Here are some ideas to customise your cushion and make it one-of-a-kind:

Fabric and shape

Choose a fabric that matches your wedding colours and theme. You can use anything from satin to cotton, burlap, or even a fancy embroidered fabric. Consider using a strip of lace ribbon or ruffled lace trim for a romantic touch. Instead of a traditional square cushion, experiment with different shapes such as a circle, heart, or rectangle.

Embellishments

Add some sparkle to your cushion with miniature ribbon roses or rosettes. Create a tufted look by sewing a few stitches through the centre of the pillow, then cover the stitches with a ribbon bow. Embellish your cushion with ribbons, beads, or buttons that match your wedding colours. Sew on a symbolic charm, such as a horseshoe or a heart.

Ribbon and string

Use a ribbon and string that complement your cushion. You can create a simple bow or get creative with a more intricate design. Secure the bow with glue or by sewing it onto the cushion. Trim and singe the ends of the ribbon and string if they are too long.

Personalisation

Add a personal touch with embroidery. You can embroider the fabric by hand or with an embroidery machine before assembling the cushion. Monogrammed initials or the wedding date are a great way to make your cushion unique.

Frequently asked questions