In the BBC Comedy, The Vicar of Dibley, Alice (a character not known for her intelligence) tells the vicar that she wants approval on her wedding dress plans, before her mum starts knitting. This line gets a huge laugh, and shows the way that knitted items have traditionally been regarded; bulky and inelegant.
However, there are many opportunities to incorporate knitting into wedding plans, and produce personalised, unique items.
The Knit Wedding Dress
It is, of course, possible to knit the wedding dress, provided one has the time, the patience and the technical skill. Any dress pattern in a lightweight yarn could be adapted for a wedding through the careful selection of yarn and the addition of lace panels or borders. However, this would be a huge project (in terms of knitting time and importance) and so should only be undertaken by those with the courage and ability.
The Knitted Veil
Also a possibility, but cobweb or laceweight yarn is recommended. Bear in mind that if a full or cathedral length veil is being attempted, the weight of the completed item may not be comfortable for the bride to wear.
Knittd Wedding Shawls, Stoles and Shrugs
If the thought of making the dress is too much, but you’re still hoping to contribute to the wedding photographs and show off your lace skills, there are many patterns available for shawls and shrugs. In these times of climate change, it is impossible to guarantee the weather, and so a beautifully crafted lace shawl may be very welcome to both the bride and her attendants. If the wedding is planned for a colder time of year, matching shrugs or stoles for the bridesmaids would be charming and warm. Lace gloves would also be a pretty addition to the bridesmaids’ outfits.
Kntted Bags and Purses
The bride often likes to have a small bag or purse which is not carried during the wedding itself, but useful for holding keys, tissues and the other essentials of life for the rest of the day. A beaded purse would make a beautiful addition to the bride’s ensemble and meet this need.
Knitting The Bride's Garter
Perhaps the quickest and easiest item to knit for a wedding is the bride’s garter. This is a small item in which the knitter can use their lace knitting skills. It is very easy to personalise these items, by adding the names of the bride and groom, or the date of the wedding using the stranded knitting technique.
Matching Knit Waistcoats for the Groom and Attendants
The male members of the wedding party can also benefit from the work of a skilful knitter. Matching waistcoats for the groom and his attendants is a smart way of ensuring that the gentlemen at the wedding have unique, stylish outfits.
Wedding Yarn Choices
A wedding is not a time to scrimp and so, if the budget allows, opt for yarns that are luxurious both to knit and to wear, such as silk.
By knitting an item for a wedding, the crafter has the opportunity to create beautiful, unique items for a special day. A selection of patterns is available for free at Knitting Pattern Central.
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