DIY Bridal Rhinestone Sash
A bridal sash studded with rhinestones can be a beautiful and delicate addition to any wedding dress. Sashes are ornamental bands or ribbons that are usually worn over the shoulder or around the waist. A wedding sash is easy to make and can range from being a simple project to one involving a complex design. A simple velvet ribbon may suffice, but adding quality rhinestones and other details can turn a simple sash into a work of art. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Fabric, ribbon or pre-made sash
- Thread (clear or in a color that matches the rhinestones)
- Needle
- Iron
- Sewing machine (optional)
- Stabilizer (optional)
- Embroidery hoop or frame
- Rhinestones, pearls and beads
Instructions
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1
Choose a fabric. Traditional bridal sash fabrics include silk, velvet, lace and organza.
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2
Select a pattern and length for the sash. Measure the fabric and stabilizer and cut to desired length. Apply stabilizer to the back of the fabric. Sew inside out, leaving one end open to invert the piece when finished. Use a sewing machine to speed up this process. Pull the closed end of the sash through the open end. With the sash inverted, close off the other end. Iron the sash.
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3
Mark the design for the rhinestones onto the fabric with chalk pencil. Use a light color to avoid staining the material. Ensure that the markings are visible and can be removed after completion of the project. Keep a picture or drawing of the design near the work area to use as a reference. It is not necessary to embroider the entire length of the sash. Consider embellishing only the visible parts.
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4
Secure the sash onto the frame. Tighten to the point of stiffness.
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5
Thread the needle with clear thread or a thread that matches the beads. Insert the needle upwards through the fabric starting from the underside of the fabric. Thread the first rhinestone or bead onto the needle. Add additional rhinestones (or beads) to the needle depending on the desired design. Reinsert needle into fabric from the top to the bottom, in the location indicated by the pattern. Make sure that the rhinestones cover the chalk markings.
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6
Repeat the process described in step 5 as necessary to create the design. Cut the thread and knot it at the bottom of sash periodically to avoid unraveling.
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Tips & Warnings
Omit Steps 1 and 2 when using a pre-made sash or ribbon.
Select quality rhinestones and beads. It will make a difference in the finished product.
Do not use iron-on or glue rhinestones. They tend to fall off easily and are messy.
Choose a different fabric for the fastening part of the sash. It adds style to the design.
Choose different shapes and sizes of beads to create a dramatic effect.
For variety, attach some rhinestones individually.
References
- Altered Cloth: How to Make a Sash Belt or Scarf
- Western Michigan University; Italian Renaissance Gown Construction - Embellishments; Leona d’Este
- Fine Embellishment Techniques; Classic Details for Today’s Clothing; Jane Conlon; The Taunton Press; 1999
Resources
- Photo Credit Ablestock.com/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
