Crafting A Child's Wedding Veil: A Step-By-Step Guide

Making a child's wedding veil is a fun and easy DIY project. You can create a custom veil to complement the child's unique style and outfit. Here's a simple guide to help you get started:

1. Determine the Veil Length:

Decide how long you want the veil to be. Common veil lengths include shoulder, elbow, fingertip, or floor-length. Measure from the top of the child's head to the desired endpoint.

2. Choose Your Materials:

The most common fabric for veils is tulle, which can be found in various colours and widths. Select a width that suits your desired fullness. You will also need a hair comb, sharp scissors, and any embellishments like beads, lace, or trim.

3. Cut the Tulle:

Fold the tulle in half and cut the bottom edge into a rounded shape for a nice drape. You can also leave it rectangular, but rounding it gives a more elegant curve.

4. Add Embellishments:

This step is optional but can make the veil extra special. Hand-sew beads, lace, or a narrow satin ribbon along the edge of the veil. You can also decorate the comb with pearls, silk flowers, or rhinestones.

5. Attach the Veil to the Comb:

Gather the top edge of the veil and sew it to the comb. You can wrap the thread around the comb and between the teeth for a secure hold.

And that's it! You now have a beautiful custom veil for the child's wedding. Enjoy crafting and creating this special accessory!

Choosing the right length for your veil

• Dress Style: The veil should accentuate and be proportional to your dress without overpowering its details. Consider the key focal points on your dress as guidance for the veil. Often, a veil will look best cut just above or below any horizontal lines. If your veil falls at a focal point, such as the waistline, it will create a harmonious and proportional look. For example, if you're wearing a classic ball gown, a chapel or cathedral-length veil will add drama and elegance, while a waist-length or fingertip veil will be more elegant and refined.
• Length Options: Familiarise yourself with the different veil lengths available. The most common lengths include:
• Birdcage Veil (4-9" or 22.5 cm): This short, vintage-style veil covers part of the face and is perfect for retro, minimalist, or modern brides.
• Shoulder-Length Veil (20-22" or 50 cm): A casual and modern choice that ends around the shoulders, ideal for informal or outdoor weddings.
• Elbow-Length Veil (25-27" or 63-68 cm): Flattering and versatile, this length complements most dress styles by adding a touch of sophistication and elegance.
• Fingertip Veil (36-40" or 91-101 cm): One of the most popular lengths, it grazes your fingertips, adding elegance without overwhelming the dress. It works well with trumpet or mermaid-style dresses.
• Waltz-Length Veil (48" or between knee and ankle): Perfect for brides who want a long veil without it laying on top of a long and ornate dress train. It also creates a beautiful effect in the wind for outdoor weddings.
• Chapel-Length Veil (90" or 230 cm): This veil extends to the floor, adding a touch of formality and grace. It's perfect for brides who want a dramatic and elegant look without too much fabric dragging on the floor.
• Cathedral-Length Veil (108-120" or 275-305 cm): The most dramatic option, this veil creates a breathtaking and regal effect, ideal for a grand, traditional wedding.
• Personal Preference: Ultimately, the length of your veil should align with your personal style and vision for your wedding day. If you prefer a simpler and more casual look, a shorter veil like a shoulder-length or birdcage veil might be ideal. On the other hand, if you want to make a grand statement, a longer veil like a chapel or cathedral-length veil will create a dramatic effect.
• Practical Considerations: Think about the venue and potential weather conditions. If you're having an outdoor wedding, consider the wind, as longer veils can get caught in the breeze. Additionally, ensure your veil is lightweight and comfortable, as you'll be wearing it for an extended period.

Remember, the right veil length will depend on your dress style, personal taste, and wedding theme. You can always consult a bridal stylist for guidance in choosing the perfect veil to complete your bridal ensemble.

Buying the right tulle and other supplies

When making a child's wedding veil, it is important to select the right tulle and other supplies to achieve the desired look and feel. Here are some tips to help you choose the right materials:

Tulle Type and Width:

• The type and width of tulle you choose will depend on the style and length of the veil you want to create. For shorter veils, such as shoulder-length, consider using tulle that is around 54 to 55 inches wide. For mid-length veils, look for tulle that is about 72 inches wide. If you are making a long veil, such as floor-length or cathedral-length, opt for wider tulle, ideally 108 inches or more.
• Tulle comes in different weights and textures, so choose accordingly. For example, if you plan to add trim to the veil, select a tulle with a stiffer feel. If you want a draped or cascading effect, go for a softer and weightier fabric like English net.

Tulle Colour:

The colour of the tulle should complement the wedding ensemble. Traditional bridal colours include white and ivory. However, you can also find coloured tulle in shades like blush, champagne, and nude.

Embellishments:

Embellishments like pearls, beads, rhinestones, or glitter can add a unique touch to the veil. Consider incorporating these into the tulle fabric or as decorations on the comb.

Other Supplies:

• In addition to tulle, you will need a hair comb. You can use a plain comb or a decorative one. If you wish to wrap the comb in tulle or ribbon, make sure to get a wider comb, about 2 to 4 inches.
• Other essential tools include fabric scissors or a rotary cutter, sewing needles, and thread in a matching colour.
• For added decoration, you can use lace, ribbon, silk flowers, or other embellishments that complement the wedding dress.

When purchasing tulle and supplies, it is recommended to buy from specialty bridal fabric stores or online platforms like Etsy, which offer a wider range of high-quality options. Remember to measure the desired veil length before purchasing fabric to ensure you have enough material.

Cutting the tulle

Measure and Decide on the Veil Length:

• The length of the veil will depend on the desired style. For a blusher veil, the length is typically 18 to 24 inches. A waist-length veil requires 30 inches, while fingertip veils are usually 40 inches. Chapel-length veils are 72 inches, and cathedral-length veils are 108 inches.
• If you're making a veil for a child, consider the height of the child and adjust the length accordingly. You may want to measure from the top of the head to the desired length, taking into account the hairstyle and dress style.

Prepare the Tulle Fabric:

• Fold the tulle fabric in half lengthwise. This will make it easier to cut and ensure a symmetrical shape.
• Use paperweights or pins to keep the layers of fabric from separating and shifting during the cutting process.

Cut the Tulle:

• Using sharp fabric scissors, a rotary cutter, or a rotary cutter and a self-healing mat, cut off the excess length of the veil. Cut through the layers of folded fabric at the desired length.
• To create rounded corners, use scissors to gradually curve the outside edge of the veil. This will soften the ends and give them a graceful finish. A slight curve is usually enough.

Trim and Inspect the Edges:

• Unfold the tulle fabric and carefully inspect the edges.
• If there are any jagged or uneven edges, use scissors to trim them, ensuring a neat and precise finish.

Consider Using New Tulle:

If you're having difficulty cutting the tulle due to wrinkles or uneven edges, consider purchasing new tulle fabric. New tulle may be easier to work with and can help you achieve straighter cuts.

Additional Tips:

• When cutting the tulle, use long, precise movements to avoid a lopsided appearance.
• If using scissors, cut slowly and carefully to prevent "chopped-looking" edges.
• For a semi-circle or circular veil, fold the fabric accordingly and cut the desired shape.
• If you plan to add trim or ribbon to the veil, consider using a stiffer tulle fabric.

Remember to take your time and work carefully when cutting the tulle. It's important to ensure straight and precise cuts to achieve the desired veil shape and length.

Adding embellishments

Choosing Embellishments:

• Pearls, crystals, beads, and lace are all popular choices for embellishing wedding veils. You can also consider embroidery for a bolder look.
• If you want a more subtle look, opt for a veil with light embellishments scattered throughout or a mini veil with oversized pearls or crystals for a modern twist.
• For a statement-making veil, go for a bold pattern, heavy embellishment, or a combination of different types of embellishments.
• Consider the colour of the veil and embellishments. A colourful veil with crystals and pearls, such as pink or black, can be a unique choice.

Types of Embellishments:

• Lace – Choose a lace pattern that you like, either as appliques or by-the-yard. You can cut the lace to fit your desired pattern and sew it onto the veil by hand.
• Beads – Select beads in your desired colour and size. Use a beading needle and invisible thread to attach the beads individually to the veil and hair comb.
• Pearls – Hand-sew pearls of different sizes onto the veil for a modern and romantic look. You can scatter them throughout or concentrate them in specific areas, such as along the edge or on the comb.
• Crystals – Crystals add drama and romance to the veil. Scatter them throughout or concentrate them in specific areas for a celestial-inspired look.
• Embroidery – Embroidered veils can feature intricate patterns, stars, moons, planets, or floral designs. This technique adds texture and detail to the veil.

Tips for Embellishing:

• Plan the placement of your embellishments. Pin the veil so that it hangs as it would on a person, then arrange your chosen embellishments before sewing them on.
• When sewing on embellishments, use matching thread and hand-sew delicate items like lace. Use a running backstitch to attach lace, as it won't be under much stress.
• If you're adding beads to the top of the comb, use invisible thread and stitch each bead individually before stitching them together to keep them in a straight line.
• Consider using recycled materials for your embellishments. For example, you can use lace from a vintage wedding dress or beads from old jewellery.

Feel free to mix and match different types of embellishments to create a unique and personalised veil. Enjoy the process of crafting this special accessory!

Attaching the veil to a hair comb

Step 1: Prepare the hair comb

Before attaching the veil, you can wrap the comb with tulle or ribbon. This step is optional but will give a prettier finish. Cut a strip of tulle or ribbon about 1 inch wide and long enough to wrap around the comb. Starting at one end, hold the strip in place and wrap it around the comb a few times. Then, continue to wrap the strip across the comb, going between the teeth. Finally, trim any excess material, fold under the end, and stitch it in place.

Step 2: Gather the veil fabric

Gather the veil fabric by stitching along the top edge. You can do this by hand or using a sewing machine. If using a machine, sew two rows about 0.5 inches apart. For a full veil, sew across the entire top edge. For a less full veil, sew across the centre, leaving gaps on either side. Gently tug on the thread ends to gather the fabric until it is the same width as the comb (about 2-4 inches). Tie the thread into a secure knot and cut off any excess.

Step 3: Attach the veil to the comb

Match up the top edge of the veil with the top edge of the comb. Stitch the veil to the comb, wrapping the thread around the comb and between the teeth. Make sure to use small stitches and that every gather is stitched down. Tie a tight knot to secure the thread and trim off any excess.

Step 4: Cover the gathered edge (optional)

This step will give a neater finish to the comb. Cut a length of ribbon to the size of your comb, adding a few extra inches. Pin the ribbon along the comb, covering the gathered edge and any stitching. Stitch the ribbon in place along the top and bottom, wrapping any excess around the back of the comb. If using natural fibre ribbon, tuck under the ends before stitching to prevent fraying.

Tips and Tricks:

• Use a metal hair comb if you plan to layer a decorative hair accessory with your veil. Metal combs tend to nestle against each other more easily.
• If you are wearing an updo, you can place the veil underneath and the hair comb above.
• For short hair, consider using an alligator clip instead of a comb. The curved structure allows for a firm grip on both sides of your hair.

Frequently asked questions