Get Your Stitch On with These Simple DIY Sewing Projects

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DIY wedding projects don’t just save piles of pennies – they also can add heaps of flair and character to your festivities.

“All you need to do is to start in good time,” says Mette Morgan, co-founder and editor of DIYWedding.org.

Here, Morgan shares two of her favorite sewing projects that require minimal skill but have maximum impact.

Table Runners

This project begins begin by figuring out how many tables you’ll have, and their sizes – length and width. Next, decide what effect you’d like to achieve within the context of your celebration’s theme, style and season.

“Light fabrics likes gingham, seersucker and madras are perfect if you want a gorgeous, fresh and summery feel,” Morgan says. “For a rustic, country style look, skip the table cloths altogether and simply place colorful madras table runners directly on wooden table surfaces.”

For a more traditional or formal vibe, consider making extra-long table runners in jewel tones and laying them over white tablecloths that almost reach the floor.

Making the runner itself only takes three steps:

1. Start by cutting a piece of 54-inch-wide fabric to your desired length, including a 1-inch seam allowance on all sides.

2. Cut your 54-inch piece of fabric down the middle lengthwise so that you get two, equally long pieces that are both 27-inches-wide. Each piece of fabric will make one runner.  

3. Fold and pin the 1-inch seam allowance on the back of each piece of fabric, and hem using a sewing machine. For a decorative touch, use a satin thread and your machine’s zigzag function a half-inch from the edge along all sides of the fabric.

Additional ways to make your runners extra special include cutting pointy ends, fraying the edges, attaching embellishments like pearls or lace, using fabric ink to stamp them with your monogram and wedding date, says Morgan. 

Ring Bearer Pillow

There are many variations of these sweet keepsakes, says Morgan. The following is just one example of how easy it can be:   

1. Cut two pieces of 9-by-9-inch fabric and lay one piece on top of the other, right sides facing.

2. Sew the sides together, leaving a half-inch seam allowance and a 2- to 3-inch gap on one of the sides.

3. Press and then turn the right side out via the gap. Mark the middle of the pillow cover with a pin.

4. Fill the pillow cover with polyester toy stuffing or similar and sew up the opening by hand or on the sewing machine.

5. Stitch a ribbon to the middle of the pillow so you can tie on your rings (or fakes).    

Consider using leftover fabric from your table runners for cohesiveness between the ceremony and reception. You can further embellish the pillow with fabric flowers, a tiny starfish, a vintage brooch, or other pretty, fun or meaningful details.

© Brides 365

Tags: diy, table runner, ring pillow