Tossing of the garter

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Wildfire Publishing Garter - DIY

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Wildfire Publishing Garter assembly - DIY

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Brides who want to get involved in the history and traditions of the wedding will see the garter as an important accessory on the day. Even though not worn as an every day item, brides feel sexy when they put a garter on. The garter is the final touch to your underwear attire and is one of the first things your new husband will remove.

You may think it is a cheaper option to buy one but, being only a small item and considering its personal and sentimental value as a memento, it is more satisfying to make it yourself.  Brides today are looking for something that will reflect their personality and will fit in with their wedding colours and theme.  So why not make your own special garter. You will be surprised how easy it is. 

Tossing of the garter

Not every bride is interested in the “ garter tossing” tradition. For those who are, you will need to wear two. One is usually less decorative than the other and this is the one the groom removes to toss to the crowd. The other remains on your thigh for the groom to remove later and to be kept and stored with your wedding gown for sentimental purposes.

What you will need

The garter is formed by joining the ribbon together with a French seam. Google “how to sew a French seam” for instructions.  Alternatively, you can overlock the edge of the seam. Making the effort to do a French seam will give a much better finish to the final product. 

  • A len gth of 5cm wide ribbon double the circumference of your thigh*
  • 2.5cm wide ribbon in a contrasting colour the same length as the 5cm ribbon
  • 8mm wide elastic
  • Sewing materials 
  • Embellishments

 

How to create

 

  1. Measure your thigh and cut both ribbons 
  2. Join the ends of the wider ribbon with a French seam.
  3. Pin the second length of ribbon to the right side of the wider ribbon leaving a gap between the two ends to insert the elastic. See image 1.
  4. Sew ribbon in place.
  5. Insert the elastic, pull to gather and secure the ends with a double stitch.
  6. Add your embellishments.

* If you want less gathered fullness only use one and a half times the length.    

 

 

 

 

 

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