Creating Your Own Lace Trim Wedding Veil

Wedding veils can be expensive, but they don't have to be. With a few simple steps, you can make your own lace-trimmed wedding veil at home. This DIY project is a great way to save money and add a personal touch to your bridal ensemble. You can choose from a variety of lace designs, such as light-as-air Chantilly lace or bold Venice and French lace, to elevate your wedding accessories and transform your dress into something magical. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of creating your own lace-trimmed wedding veil, including choosing the right materials, cutting and sewing the tulle, and attaching the lace trim. We will also offer tips and tricks for a professional-looking finish.

Choosing the right lace

Firstly, think about the level of detail on your wedding dress. If your dress is heavily detailed with lace, you may want to opt for a simpler lace trim on your veil to avoid an overwhelming look. Conversely, if your dress has more subtle lace accents, you can choose a more intricate lace trim without worry. The key is to maintain a balanced and cohesive style. Try to match the lace patterns as closely as possible, and if your dress's lace has sparkly beading, choose a trim with similar sparkle to avoid an off-balance look.

Secondly, consider the silhouette of your wedding dress. Different dress styles suit different veil lengths. For example, a ballgown dress with a nipped-in waist can be accentuated with a waist-length veil. A fingertip veil complements a fishtail, mermaid, or fit-and-flare dress, as it ends just above the spot where the train starts to kick out. An elbow-length veil pairs well with a tea-length dress, creating a retro vibe. A slim sheath or column dress with a minimal train looks best with a slim floor-length veil.

Thirdly, take into account the length of your dress's train. You may want your veil to match the length of your gown's train to create a cohesive look. There are three veil lengths that touch the floor: floor-length, chapel-length, and cathedral-length. A modest train with 2-3 feet of fabric on the floor is typically chapel-length, while a longer train with 3-4 feet of fabric is considered cathedral-length.

Lastly, think about the overall theme and style of your wedding. If you're going for a modern and minimalist vibe, a sleek and simple veil will complement the contemporary aesthetic. For a romantic and classical theme, consider a more ornate veil with delicate lace or intricate beading. A bohemian or rustic theme calls for a veil with soft, flowing layers and perhaps some floral accents or embroidery.

Remember, there are no set rules when selecting your veil lace. Trust your instincts and choose what feels right for your unique bridal vision.

Cutting the tulle

Before cutting, decide on the shape of your veil. A half-circle shape is a popular choice, but you can also go for a circle or oval if you're making a double-layered veil. Fold the tulle along the length that goes from the comb to the bottom of the veil. Cut an arc through the double layers to ensure both sides are even. You can then shape the top and sides until the curves drape the way you want them to when worn.

Don't be afraid to experiment and trim as needed. Tulle is inexpensive, so it's okay to make mistakes. Cut a shape, drape it over your head, and trim if necessary until you achieve the desired look.

If you want a more precise measurement before cutting, gather the short edge of the tulle and place the gathered edge on your head, marking the desired length with a pin. Then, lay the fabric on a flat surface and measure down to that mark. Find the centre of the tulle at that length and make another mark. This will be the centre of your half-circle cut.

Remember, it's easier to cut off excess tulle than to add more, so start with a larger piece and gradually trim it down to the desired size and shape.

Attaching the veil to the comb

Preparing the Veil and Comb:

Before you begin sewing, it is important to gather your veil fabric and comb. Cut your veil fabric to the desired shape and size, ensuring that the top edge is straight and ready for attachment. You will also need a bridal comb, which can be made of plastic or metal. If you prefer a more secure attachment, opt for a metal comb.

Orienting the Veil and Comb:

Place the veil fabric right-side up, with the wrong side facing you. Position the comb so that its inner curved side is facing the gathered edge of the veil fabric. This orientation will allow you to flip the veil over the comb, ensuring that the lace edge faces outwards when worn.

Sewing the Veil to the Comb:

Now it's time to sew! Using a needle and thread, start sewing from the backside of the comb. Poke the needle through the fabric at the bottom corner and create a loop stitch over the top. Repeat this pattern along the length of the comb, ensuring each stitch is secure. You can also wrap the thread around the comb multiple times for added security.

Finalizing the Attachment:

Once you've sewn the veil to the comb, check that the stitches are tight and secure. Flip the veil over the comb so that the right side is facing outwards, and adjust the fabric as needed. Now, you have a beautiful wedding veil with a secure attachment!

Tips and Tricks:

• Consider using clear or white thread for a discreet finish.
• If you prefer a more ornate look, you can add beads or other embellishments to the comb before attaching the veil.
• Always measure twice and cut once to ensure the perfect fit for your veil.
• Feel free to trim any excess tulle or fabric for a neat and elegant finish.

Sewing on the lace

• Prepare the lace: Choose a lace that complements your veil and dress. Consider the colour, style, and texture of the lace. You can opt for lace appliques or purchase lace by the yard and cut it to your desired length. Ensure you have enough lace to cover the desired area of your veil.
• Pin the lace: Once you have cut your veil to the desired shape and size, carefully pin the lace along the edges. This step will help you visualize the placement of the lace and ensure a neat finish. You may need to cut slits or darts in the lace to curve it smoothly around corners.
• Sewing technique: For sewing the lace onto the veil, hand sewing is recommended to maintain the delicate nature of the fabric. Use a needle suitable for delicate fabrics, such as a sharp needle. A running backstitch is an excellent choice for attaching the lace, as it creates a secure and relatively invisible seam. Avoid using invisible thread, as it can be tricky to work with and may cause unwanted kinks in the fabric. Instead, opt for a matching thread colour that blends seamlessly with your veil and lace.
• Sew the lace: Start sewing the lace onto the veil, following the pinned outline. Take your time and use small, delicate stitches to secure the lace in place. Focus on creating a clean finish, ensuring that your stitches are not too tight or close together, which could cause bunching or puckering of the fabric.
• Embellishments: If you wish to add beads or other embellishments to your lace, do so at this stage. Sew on beads individually, spacing them evenly along the lace edge for a elegant, randomized distribution. You can also add beads to the top of the comb for an extra touch of sparkle.
• Final touches: Once you have finished sewing on the lace, carefully inspect your work and trim any excess threads. Ensure that the lace lies flat and drapes gracefully. If needed, gently steam or iron the veil to remove any wrinkles, being cautious of the heat settings to avoid damaging the delicate fabrics.

Remember, creating a lace-trimmed wedding veil is a creative process, and you can adjust and customize it to your unique vision. Enjoy the process of crafting a beautiful and personal accessory for your special day!

Adding beads

Choosing Your Materials:

Firstly, you will need to select your beads. You can choose from a variety of beads, such as freshwater pearls, lilac Ceylon, or moon stones, or crystal beads. You can also use recycled beads from old jewellery or thrift stores.

Preparing Your Veil:

Before you start adding beads, you should prepare your veil. Pin the veil so that it hangs as it will on the bride. You can use a dress form with a travel pillow or a live model. This will help you visualise the placement of the beads.

Attaching the Beads:

When attaching the beads, it is best to add them one at a time to avoid weighing down the veil. Thread your needle, but do not knot the end. Come up through the veil, into the bead, and then go back down a few threads over. Tie a square knot on the back of the fabric and cut the thread, leaving about 1 cm on either side of the knot. Repeat this process until you have added enough beads to your liking.

Embellishing the Comb:

If you wish, you can also add beads to the top of the comb. Use invisible thread as it is stiff enough to keep its shape. Stitch down each bead individually, and then go back and stitch down every 3 or so beads together. At the end of the row, tie a knot and secure it by putting the needle through the comb's fabric.

Tips for Using Glue:

If you prefer, you can also use glue to attach beads to your veil, especially if you are working with seed beads or fabric projects. Use a hot glue gun or super glue, applying a thin layer to the back of the bead and gently pressing it down. Be careful not to use too much heat to avoid melting the fabric.

Remember, you can add as much or as little embellishment as you like. Adding beads to your wedding veil is a great way to make it unique and personalised. Enjoy creating your dream veil!

Frequently asked questions