Creating Beautiful Wedding Table Swags: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding table swags are a beautiful addition to any wedding ceremony or reception. They can be used to decorate archways, tables, and even chairs. You can buy them pre-made, or you can make them yourself. If you're making them yourself, you'll need to gather your supplies, including fabric, tablecloths, zip ties, c-clamps, scissors, and pins. The type of fabric you use will make a big difference to the overall look, so it's important to choose something high-quality, like sheer voile or satin. Once you have your supplies, you can follow a few simple steps to create a gorgeous, professional-looking swag.

Choosing flowers and foliage

Flowers and foliage are essential elements of wedding table swags, adding a touch of elegance and romance to the celebration. When choosing flowers and foliage for your wedding table swags, here are some factors to consider:

Colour Palette:

Select flowers that complement your wedding colour scheme. This could include matching the flowers to the bridal party's attire, the table linens, or the overall wedding theme. For instance, a soft and romantic colour palette might include blush pink, ivory, and sage, while a vibrant and bold palette could feature hues of burgundy, orange, or turquoise.

Flower Variety:

The type of flowers you choose will depend on your personal preference and the overall style of your wedding. Popular choices for wedding flowers include roses, peonies, hydrangeas, eucalyptus, sunflowers, and dahlias. Consider mixing and matching different types of flowers to create visual interest and texture.

Seasonality:

Selecting flowers that are in season during your wedding can ensure they are at their freshest and most vibrant. For example, spring weddings might feature tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths, while summer weddings could showcase sunflowers, peonies, and roses. Using seasonal flowers can also be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

Size and Scale:

Consider the size of your tables and the overall scale of your wedding venue when choosing flowers. For a more intimate setting, smaller, delicate flowers like baby's breath or sweet peas might be preferable. In contrast, larger blooms like hydrangeas or sunflowers can make a statement in a grand venue.

Foliage:

Don't underestimate the impact of foliage! Greenery such as eucalyptus, silver dollar eucalyptus, willow leaves, and ivy can add texture, depth, and fullness to your floral arrangements. Foliage is also an excellent way to fill space and create a lush look without breaking the bank.

Artificial vs. Fresh Flowers:

Both artificial and fresh flowers have their advantages. Fresh flowers offer a natural beauty and fragrance, while artificial flowers can be more cost-effective and long-lasting. If you opt for artificial flowers, choose high-quality silk or foam flowers that look realistic.

Longevity:

Consider the longevity of the flowers, especially if you want to create arrangements in advance or preserve them as keepsakes. Dried flowers, for example, can last for years and are a trendy choice for weddings.

Budget:

Flowers can be a significant expense, so it's essential to consider your budget. Some flowers are more expensive than others, and the size of your arrangements will also impact the cost. If you're crafty, you could even try creating your own floral arrangements to save money.

Selecting the right fabric

When selecting the right fabric for your wedding table swags, it's important to consider the overall look you want to achieve. The type of fabric you choose will make a significant difference in the visual impact of your table setting. While tulle fabric can be used, it may not create the same "wow" effect as high-quality sheer voile or satin fabric. Sheer voile fabric, for instance, can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your wedding tables. The fabric's light and airy nature creates graceful drapes and swags, enhancing the beauty of your floral arrangements and table decorations.

It's also essential to choose a fabric that complements your wedding theme and colour palette. If you're opting for a rustic or boho-chic wedding, consider using natural fabrics like cotton or linen. These fabrics offer a more relaxed and organic feel to your table setting. On the other hand, if you're going for a glamorous or luxurious theme, satin or silk fabrics might be a better choice. The sheen and lustre of these fabrics will elevate your tablescape, creating an opulent and elegant atmosphere.

Additionally, consider the weight and drape of the fabric. Lighter-weight fabrics like chiffon or organza can create beautiful, flowing swags, while heavier fabrics like velvet or brocade will result in more structured and defined folds. The drape of the fabric will determine how it hangs and falls, so choose a fabric that aligns with the style and aesthetic you wish to achieve.

Lastly, don't underestimate the power of texture. Embossed or patterned fabrics can add depth and dimension to your table setting. Consider fabrics with subtle textures like damask or lace to create a subtle yet captivating visual interest. Remember, the fabric you choose will be the foundation of your table swags, so select a material that not only aligns with your wedding vision but also showcases your unique style and personality.

Preparing the table

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Start by gathering all the necessary supplies for your project. The most important supply is the fabric, which will create the desired "wow" effect. High-quality fabrics like sheer voile or satin are recommended over tulle for a more elegant appearance. Other supplies you will need include table cloths, zip ties, C-clamps, scissors, corsage pins, and safety pins.

Step 2: Prepare the Tables

Place one floor-length tablecloth on each table you plan to swag. Then, push the tables together to form a continuous surface. This will ensure that your swag flows seamlessly across the tables.

Step 3: Secure the C-Clamps

Attach C-clamps to the ends of your head table and where the tables meet. For example, if you have three 8-foot tables pushed together, you will need four C-clamps. These clamps will serve as anchor points for your fabric swag.

Step 4: Find the Centre of Your Fabric

Fold your chosen fabric in half to find its middle point. Place this centre point at the centre of your head table on the floor. Unfold the fabric so that it covers the length of the table. This step ensures that you have an equal amount of fabric on each end to work with.

Step 5: Start Bunching and Attaching the Fabric

Choose a starting end and begin to bunch the fabric. Use zip ties to secure the bunched fabric, leaving a generous amount of fabric hanging on the floor. Attach these bunched sections to the C-clamps using additional zip ties. Tuck any extra fabric underneath itself to create a full and elegant look.

Step 6: Continue Bunching and Attaching

Find the top side of the fabric and pull it across to the next C-clamp. Repeat the bunching and attaching process at each clamp until you have covered the length of the table. Remember that different swag styles may require more or less fabric, so adjust as needed.

Step 7: Hide Any Extra Fabric

If you have extra fabric remaining after swagging, do not cut it! Instead, tuck it neatly under the tablecloth to hide it. Pull out some fabric from under the table to maintain a full and luxurious appearance.

Step 8: Final Touches

Use scissors to clip the zip ties for a neat finish. Go back and adjust the fabric with corsage pins or safety pins to perfect your design. Ensure that all pins are secure and hidden, and your wedding table swag is complete!

Attaching the swag

Next, fold the fabric in half to find its middle point. Place this in the centre of the head table on the floor and unfold the fabric to cover the length of the table. This ensures that you are working with the same amount of fabric on each end. You will notice that there is a lot of extra fabric. This is because the style of swag you choose will determine how much fabric you need. A swag that is fanned out and almost touching the floor will require a lot more fabric than a simple swag across the top of the table.

Now, pick a starting end and bunch the fabric, securing it with a zip tie, leaving a generous amount hanging on the floor. Attach this bunched fabric to the c-clamp with another zip tie. Tuck the extra fabric underneath itself to create a full look.

Find the top side of the fabric and pull it across to the next c-clamp. Begin to make your next bunch of fabric and secure it with a zip tie, attaching it to the clamp. Continue this process until you have bunched the fabric and attached it to each clamp left on the table.

Depending on the type of swag you choose, you may have extra fabric when you are finished. Do not cut the fabric! Instead, tuck it under the tablecloth and pull some fabric back out to create a full look. Finally, use the scissors to clip the zip ties and then use the corsage pins or safety pins to make any necessary touch-ups.

Final touches

Now that you've gathered your supplies, it's time to start creating your wedding table swags! Here are some detailed, step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process:

Step 1: Prepare the Tables

Place one floor-length tablecloth on each table and then push the tables together to form the head table. This provides a smooth base for your swag decorations.

Step 2: Secure the C-Clamps

Attach one C-clamp to each end of the head table, as well as any points where tables meet. For example, if you have three 8-foot tables pushed together, you'll need four C-clamps.

Step 3: Measure and Mark the Fabric

Fold your chosen fabric in half to find its middle point. Align this centre point with the centre of your head table, then unfold the fabric so it covers the length of the table. This ensures an even distribution of fabric on both sides.

Step 4: Bunch and Secure the Fabric

Starting from one end, bunch the fabric together and secure it to the first C-clamp with a zip tie, leaving some excess fabric hanging. Repeat this process for each C-clamp, working your way along the table. Remember, you can always adjust and cut the fabric later.

Step 5: Create the Swag Effect

To achieve the swag look, gently tug on the fabric to create a draped effect. Play around with the fabric until you achieve the desired fullness and fall. You can use zip ties or pins to secure any loose ends.

Step 6: Fine-Tune and Adjust

Once the fabric is in place, take a step back and assess the overall look. Use corsage pins or safety pins to make any necessary adjustments or to secure any loose ends. You can also tuck any excess fabric under the tablecloth to hide it discreetly.

Step 7: Add Floral Accents (Optional)

If you wish to incorporate flowers or greenery, now is the time to do so. Artificial floral swags can be purchased or handmade and placed on top of or alongside the fabric swags. This adds a romantic and elegant touch to your wedding table décor.

Step 8: Stand Back and Admire!

Take a moment to appreciate your handiwork! You've successfully created wedding table swags that will wow your guests and elevate the overall ambiance of your special day.

Frequently asked questions