The bride saw the idea for this on the internet, we adapted it for her gown.  This is an eleven point bustle, three on the middle ribbon and two each on the others (two each side)

I put the gown on the dress form to measure up the bustle then adjust on the bride.

I use grosgrain ribbon, felt squares, curtain rings, and the all elusive square, opaque, nylon snaps.

These snaps appear to be the same as the ones used in the snap tape using nylon snaps.  The snaps can be cut out of the tape.  Home Sew offers this for 2yds for $5.75 or 10 yds for $25.00.  Also Newark Dressmaker Supply offers it in black & white.

These snaps are very secure and stay snapped through a night of dancing.

Attach the ribbons to the waist of the lining petticoat, leave about 6" longer than what you 1st measured so adjustments can be made at the fitting if needed.  Mark the length with safety pins.

After the fitting, sew the snap each piece on either side of your mark.  You could use Fray Check on the end of the ribbon.

I liked Donna's suggestion of putting colored beads to mark the center ribbon.

I attach the rings to seam allowances when possible.  When I must put one where there is no seam, I use felt squares to reinforce the fabric.  The rings are sewn through all the layers that must be bustled.

When the bride picks up the dress, I ask her to bring the person who will be bustling her dress on the wedding day.  This way I can show her how to bustle it correctly.

This method is not my idea.  The credit goes to Ellen Blacketer, who is also a member of the new Heartland Chapter.

Hope this helps.  Let me know if you have questions.

Terry