Creating A Wedding Veil: Fingertip Length, Diy Style

Wedding veils can be expensive, especially if you want something custom-made or with intricate details. Luckily, it is possible to make a wedding veil yourself, and it can be done in an afternoon! This introduction will cover the process of making a fingertip-length wedding veil, which is a popular choice as it allows any design on the back of the bride's gown to be seen through the sheer fabric.

Choosing the right length

Your Wedding Dress

The style and details of your wedding dress will play a significant role in determining the length of your veil. If your dress has a statement back or intricate embellishments, you may want to opt for a fingertip-length veil that will showcase the beauty of your gown without covering it up. This length will allow you to showcase any design or details on the back of your dress through the sheer fabric of the veil.

Your Hairstyle

Your chosen hairstyle for your wedding day will also influence the length of your veil. If you plan to wear an updo or a hairstyle that showcases your neck and shoulders, a fingertip-length veil can elegantly frame your face and accentuate your hairstyle. On the other hand, if you prefer long, flowing curls or a more voluminous hairstyle, you might want to consider a longer veil that will complement the movement and texture of your hair.

Your Height and Proportions

It is essential to consider your height and body proportions when selecting the length of your veil. A fingertip veil typically measures between 35 and 40 inches. To ensure the veil reaches your fingertips, take measurements with your hair styled similarly to how it will be on your wedding day. This will help you customise the veil accordingly. Keep in mind that you can always add a few extra inches to the veil to ensure it is slightly longer rather than shorter.

Your Wedding Theme and Venue

The style and theme of your wedding, as well as the venue, can also guide your decision on veil length. If you are having a beach wedding, for example, you might want to avoid a veil that is too long and cumbersome. A fingertip-length veil can be an elegant and practical choice, allowing you to move freely while still adding a romantic touch to your ensemble.

Your Personal Style and Comfort

Ultimately, choosing the right length for your wedding veil comes down to your personal style and comfort. A fingertip-length veil offers a beautiful balance between a short and long veil, providing a timeless and elegant look. This length is versatile and can be customised with details such as lace, beads, or crystals to match your unique style.

Remember, your wedding veil is an accessory that should enhance your overall bridal look. By considering these factors and trusting your instincts, you can confidently select the perfect fingertip-length veil that aligns with your vision for your special day.

Selecting the fabric

The type of fabric you choose for your veil is important, as it will impact the overall look and feel of your wedding ensemble. Here are some tips and suggestions for selecting the perfect fabric for your fingertip-length wedding veil:

Tulle

Tulle is a popular choice for wedding veils, including fingertip-length veils. It is a lightweight, delicate fabric that creates a soft and romantic look. Tulle is available in various colours, including white and ivory, and can be found in different widths, typically ranging from 72 inches to 108 inches or more. When selecting tulle for your veil, consider the desired volume and "fluffiness." Wider fabric will create a fuller, more voluminous veil, while narrower fabric will result in a more streamlined look.

Organza or Fine Cotton/Linen

If you want a different texture or a slightly heavier fabric, you can opt for organza or a very fine cotton or linen fabric. These materials will still provide the necessary sheerness to see through, but they may offer a different drape and movement than tulle. Like tulle, these fabrics come in various widths and colours, so you can choose the one that best matches your dress and personal style.

Fabric Width

The width of the fabric will determine the "fluffiness" of your veil. For fingertip-length veils, a 72-inch width (approximately 6 feet or 2 meters) is generally sufficient and will create a beautiful, elegant drape. However, if you desire a fuller look with more volume, you can opt for wider fabric options, such as 108-inch width or more. Keep in mind that very wide fabric may not be necessary for a fingertip-length veil, as the focus is on the length rather than the width.

Fabric Amount

When purchasing your fabric, remember to consider the length of your veil and whether you want layers. Fingertip-length veils typically range from 35 to 40 inches in length. If you plan to have layers, multiply the desired length by the number of layers to determine the total fabric needed. For example, if you want a two-layer veil that reaches your fingertips, you would need approximately 70 to 80 inches of fabric. Always add a bit extra for seam allowance and to wrap the comb securely.

Fabric Colour

The colour of the fabric is an important consideration, as it should complement your wedding dress and overall bridal style. Traditional colours for wedding veils include white and ivory, but you can also explore other options such as blush, champagne, or even coloured veils to match your wedding theme. Ensure that the fabric colour matches or complements your dress to create a cohesive and elegant look.

Fabric Quality

When selecting your fabric, it is essential to choose a high-quality material that will drape beautifully and withstand any potential tugging or stretching during the sewing process. Look for soft, luxurious bridal illusion tulle or premium silk/English net for an elegant and refined finish. Steer clear of fabrics that feel stiff or rough, as they may not drape as gracefully and can be uncomfortable to wear.

In summary, selecting the right fabric for your fingertip-length wedding veil involves considering factors such as type, width, amount, colour, and quality. By choosing a fabric that suits your style and vision, you can create a veil that perfectly complements your wedding ensemble and adds a touch of romance to your special day.

Hemming the veil

A rolled hem is created with a machine's rolled hem foot and can also be done by hand. This type of hem will prevent the fabric from fraying while having a minimal visual impact. To create a rolled hem, start by inserting the fabric into the rolled hem foot, with the wrong side up, so that the needle is over a piece of rolled fabric. Begin sewing slowly, using both hands to guide the fabric and control how much fabric is rolled into the foot. Work your way around the veil's hem, overlapping slightly. Once finished, check for any areas that need correction and fix them by hand.

If you need the veil quickly, you can skip this step, but be very careful when handling the veil to avoid fraying.

A trimmed hem, on the other hand, is created by pinning trim to the veil's border, with wrong sides together. Overlap the trim by a few inches and tuck under the ends to prevent fraying. Sew all the way around, as close to the edge as possible. Then, flip the trim so that the right side is showing and press with low heat. Finally, stitch the trim down on the right side of the fabric, again working close to the edge.

In addition to hemming, there are a few other steps to creating a fingertip-length wedding veil. This includes preparing the fabric, cutting the fabric to size, trimming the corners, pressing the veil, preparing the comb, gathering the veil, pinning the veil to the comb, stitching the veil to the comb, and covering the gathered edge (optional).

Adding a comb

Prepare the Comb:

First, decide on the type of comb you want to use. You can choose between a metal or plastic comb, and select a colour that matches your hair, such as silver, rose gold, or gold.

Wrap the Comb:

Take 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. Continue wrapping, crossing between the teeth of the comb, and adjust the number of wraps to control the bulkiness. When you reach the other side, wrap the end a few times and trim any excess fabric. Secure the end by folding it under and pinning it in place.

Stitch the Wrapped Strip:

Use a needle and thread to hand-stitch the wrapped strip in place. Stitch securely, ensuring that the strip won't unravel. You can also stitch the ends of the strip to themselves to prevent slipping.

Attach the Veil to the Comb:

Now it's time to attach the veil to the comb. If you want a blusher, place the comb on the underside of the veil, or skip this step if you prefer a mantilla-style veil. Fold the veil in half widthwise, and mark with pins where you want to gather the fabric. This will depend on the style of veil you're creating. Use a running stitch to baste along the gather line, staying within the pinned area.

Pin and Stitch the Veil to the Comb:

Gather the fabric by pulling on the ends of the basting threads. Adjust the gathers to fit the size of the comb and pin them in place. Check the style and make any necessary adjustments before stitching. Then, using a needle and thread, hand-stitch the veil to the wrapped fabric on the comb. Make small, secure stitches to ensure that each gather is held in place.

Optional: Cover the Gathered Edge:

If you wish, you can cover the gathered edge of the veil for a neater finish. Cut a length of ribbon slightly longer than your comb and pin it in place along the top, covering the gathered edge and any visible stitching. Stitch the ribbon in place along the top and bottom, wrapping the ends around the back of the comb. If you're using natural fibre ribbon, tuck the ends under before stitching to prevent fraying.

And there you have it! A beautifully handmade fingertip-length wedding veil with a secure comb attachment.

Gathering the veil

Step 1: Fold the Fabric

To begin the gathering process, you will need to fold the fabric in half widthwise, like a hamburger. This step is crucial in creating the desired shape for your veil. If you plan to have a blusher or a mantilla-style veil, you may want to skip this step, as these styles typically do not require gathering. Play around with the length of each layer, as you can always trim the edges later.

Step 2: Mark the Gather Line

Once you've decided on the length of each layer, use pins to mark where you will gather the fabric. This line will determine the shape of your veil. For a cascading veil, you will gather the center third of the fabric along the fold. For a standard veil, you will gather the entire width of the fabric.

Step 3: Baste Along the Gather Line

Using a running stitch, baste along the gather line, staying within the area marked with pins. If you're in a hurry, you can use a sewing machine set to the longest stitch size for this step. It is best to baste twice, about a quarter-inch apart and approximately a quarter-inch from the fold. This will give you greater control when gathering the fabric.

Step 4: Gather the Fabric

Now, it's time to pull on the ends of the basting threads to gather the fabric. For most veils, you won't need to pull as tightly as possible. Instead, adjust the gathers so that the fabric is the desired size to attach to the comb. You can always adjust the gathers later if needed.

Step 5: Pin the Gathers

After you've achieved the desired amount of gathering, use pins to secure the gathers in place along the top of the comb. To keep the ends of the basting threads from tangling or coming undone, wrap them tightly around a pin and pin it to the veil. This will make it easier to adjust the gathers later if needed.

Step 6: Check the Style

Before you start stitching, take a moment to check the style and shape of the veil. This is the easiest time to make any adjustments, as the fabric is not yet permanently attached to the comb. If you're working alone, you can use the timer on your camera to take a photo while you model the veil.

Step 7: Stitch the Veil to the Comb

Now, it's time to attach the veil to the comb. Using a needle and thread, stitch the veil to the comb by hand, working the needle into the wrapped fabric. Make sure to use small stitches and ensure that every gather is securely stitched down. Once you're happy with the attachment, remove the basting threads.

Step 8: Cover the Gathered Edge (Optional)

If you want to add a finishing touch to your veil, you can cover the gathered edge with a piece of ribbon. Cut a length of ribbon that is slightly longer than your comb. Pin the ribbon in place along the comb, covering the edges of the gathers and the stitching. Then, stitch the ribbon in place along the top and bottom, wrapping any excess ribbon around the back of the comb.

And there you have it! You've successfully gathered your fingertip-length wedding veil. Remember, it's important to take your time and make any necessary adjustments throughout the process to achieve your desired veil shape and style.

Frequently asked questions