Creating A Wedding Veil: No-Sew, All-Glamour

A wedding veil is an expensive yet essential part of a wedding ensemble. Luckily, it is much cheaper to make your own. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make a no-sew wedding veil:

Step 1: Gather the Materials

Firstly, you will need to gather the following materials:

- Tulle (also known as netting)

- A hair comb

- A needle and thread

- Any trim you want to add (optional)

Step 2: Cut the Tulle

Cut the tulle to the length you desire. You can cut the tulle into a circular, oval, or rounded rectangular shape, depending on your preference. If you want a fuller veil, use 108-inch-wide tulle. For shorter veils, 54-inch or 72-inch-wide tulle will suffice.

Step 3: Prepare the Comb

Wrap the comb with leftover tulle or ribbon. This will create a platform to which you will attach the veil.

Step 4: Gather the Tulle

Fold the tulle in half widthwise. Decide whether you want a single or double layer veil. If you want a blusher, you can skip this step. Mark with pins where you will gather the fabric. This will determine the shape of the veil. For a cascading veil, gather the centre third of the fabric along the fold. For a standard veil, gather the entire width of the fabric.

Step 5: Attach the Tulle to the Comb

Pull on the ends of the basting threads to gather the fabric to the size of the comb. Pin the gathers into place along the top of the comb. Sew the veil to the comb by hand, working the needle into the wrapped fabric.

Step 6: Cover the Gathered Edge (Optional)

Cut a length of ribbon to the size of your comb, plus a few inches. Pin the ribbon in place along the comb, covering the edges of the gathers and stitching. Stitch the ribbon into place along the top and bottom.

Step 7: Embellish the Veil (Optional)

You can decorate your veil with crystals, sequins, pearls, rhinestones, or fabric flowers. Hand-sew or use suitable glue to attach these embellishments.

Choosing the right fabric

The fabric you choose for your wedding veil will have a big impact on the overall look and feel of your wedding day ensemble. Here are some tips for choosing the right fabric for your veil.

Tulle

Tulle is the most common fabric used for wedding veils. It is a versatile fabric that can be made in a variety of different ways to bring different elements like structure, transparency, and drape to a bridal look. Tulle is usually available in 72" and 108" widths, and the wider the tulle, the fuller your veil will be. Traditional tulle holds its shape well despite being incredibly light, so it is perfect if you want a veil with more structure.

Organza

Organza is a crisp, lightweight fabric that adds structure and a bit of volume to your veil. It is known for its sheer texture and slightly stiff feel, making it an excellent choice for creating a veil that stands out with a bit of poof. Organza veils are perfect for brides who want a classic, sophisticated look with a touch of glamour. The fabric’s stiffness allows it to hold its shape beautifully, and it can be layered to achieve a fuller look without being too heavy. Additionally, organza is often available in various finishes, from matte to glossy, allowing you to customize the sheen to match your gown.

Chiffon

Chiffon is a soft, flowy fabric that offers a more delicate and romantic aesthetic. It is incredibly light and airy, making it ideal for brides who prefer a veil that drapes gracefully and moves with them. Chiffon veils provide a gentle, ethereal look that can enhance the beauty of a flowing wedding dress. The fabric’s subtle texture and softness make it perfect for a more understated and modern bridal look. Chiffon’s lightweight nature also ensures that the veil does not overpower the dress, making it an excellent choice for brides seeking a soft, ethereal veil that complements their gown seamlessly.

Lace

Full lace veils are a beautiful alternative to tulle, giving brides a little more coverage than a tulle or silk veil. Lace adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your veil, while still being delicate and detailed. Lace veils are great for adding a bit of texture and visual interest without being too heavy or cumbersome.

Mesh Lace

Mesh lace is a combination of the intricacy of lace with the lightweight nature of mesh. This fabric is perfect for brides who want a veil that is both detailed and delicate. The lace adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, while the mesh provides a subtle, almost ethereal quality. Mesh lace veils are great for adding a bit of texture and visual interest without being too heavy or cumbersome.

Cutting the fabric

Before cutting, it is important to measure the length and shape of the veil. For a fingertip veil, cut the tulle to about 35-40 inches. If you want a blusher, cut the tulle longer and fold it over the rest of the veil. You can also create a rounded bottom edge for a nicer shape.

• Lay the tulle out on a large table or clean floor, keeping it folded in half lengthwise.
• Grab the rightmost edge and fold it over so that it touches the leftmost edge, creating four layers of tulle.
• Measure again the desired length of the tulle from the top of your head down and cut the tulle to that length if needed.
• Round off the top left edge of the fabric by pinning it and then cutting it in a smooth motion. You can use a large serving platter as a guide.
• Unfold the tulle completely so that you have one layer.
• Fold the tulle crosswise from right to left, but you don't have to bring it all the way over. You can match the ends for a single-length veil or leave a few inches between the edges for a layered look.
• Double-check the length and cut one of the rounded ends shorter if it is too long.
• Turn the veil 90 degrees counter-clockwise so that the folded edge is at the top and the open rounded edges are closest to you.

Now you are ready to gather the center of the tulle and attach it to a comb or hair clip!

Hemming the veil

Step 1: Prepare the Fabric

Before you begin hemming, it is essential to prepare the fabric. Press the tulle gently with a low heat iron to remove any creases or wrinkles. Check the fabric for any stains or loose threads and remove them. It is also important to determine the desired veil length and shape before proceeding.

Step 2: Cut the Fabric to Size

Cutting the fabric to the required length is the next step. Fold the tulle in half lengthwise, with the folded edge closest to you. Measure the desired length from the folded edge and use a long ruler or straight edge to mark the cutting line. Cut the fabric along the marked line, ensuring straight and precise cuts.

Step 3: Round the Corners (Optional)

If you want a rounded veil, you can round off the corners of the fabric. Place a large round object, such as a serving platter, on the top left corner of the fabric and trace an arc. Cut along this arc to create a rounded edge. Repeat this process for all four corners if you desire a circular veil.

Step 4: Hemming Techniques

There are two main techniques for hemming a veil: the rolled hem and the trimmed hem. The rolled hem is created using a rolled hem foot on a sewing machine, while the trimmed hem involves attaching a trim, such as ribbon or lace, to the edge of the veil.

Rolled Hem:

Insert the fabric into the rolled hem foot of your sewing machine, with the wrong side of the fabric facing up. Begin sewing along one side of the veil, using both hands to guide and fold the fabric as you go. Work slowly, especially around curves, to ensure a neat and precise hem.

Trimmed Hem:

Pin the trim, such as lace or ribbon, to the edge of the veil, with the wrong side of the trim facing up. Adjust the trim to avoid wrinkles and ensure a smooth finish. Sew the trim in place, working close to the edge of the fabric and trim. Flip the trim over so that the right side is showing, and press with a low heat iron. Stitch the trim down again, close to the edge, to secure it in place.

Step 5: Gather the Veil

Gathering the veil is the next step. Decide if you want a single or double-layered veil. For a single layer, gather the fabric along the top edge. For a double layer, fold the fabric in half widthwise and gather the center portion or the entire width, depending on your desired style. Use a needle and thread to gather the fabric, creating a gentle ruffle.

Step 6: Attach the Veil to a Comb

To wear the veil, you need to attach it to a hair comb. Sew the gathered portion of the veil to the comb by hand, wrapping the thread around the comb's teeth to secure it in place. You can also wrap the comb with ribbon or fabric to create a neater finish.

Step 7: Embellish the Veil (Optional)

You can add embellishments to the veil, such as beads, pearls, or rhinestones, to make it more ornate. Sew or glue these embellishments onto the veil, focusing on the comb or along the edges. You can also add a blusher, a shorter layer of tulle that can be worn over the face during the ceremony.

Adding a comb or hair clip

Types of Comb and Hair Clip Attachments:

• Metal Comb: A 3-inch gold metal comb is the most popular option, especially for brides with thick hair. It is curved and sewn securely into the veil, providing a sturdy hold. There is usually no additional cost for this type of attachment.
• Plastic Comb: A clear plastic comb is a better option for those with fine or fair hair as the teeth are closer together, providing extra grip. It may also be less visible in lighter-coloured hair. This option typically incurs a small additional fee.
• Velcro Fastener: If you desire a detachable blusher or plan to pair your veil with a headpiece, velcro fasteners are a great choice. They allow for easy removal of the blusher and can also be used to attach the veil to a headpiece. This option usually has a small additional charge.
• Hairpins: For drop veils and mantilla veils, hairpins can be used instead of a comb to secure the veil to your hair. This method ensures the veil is not gathered and can also be used with a comb for a similar look.
• Elastic Bridal Loops: Elastic loops, similar to those on bridal buttons, can be sewn under the top of the veil as an alternative to a comb. Your hairstylist can then use hairpins to fasten the veil to your hair. This option is typically provided at no extra cost.

Attaching the Comb or Hair Clip:

When attaching a comb or hair clip to your veil, it is essential to consider the orientation of the fabric to ensure the right side is facing outwards. Here are the steps to attach a comb to your veil:

• Place the comb, curved side up, on a flat surface.
• Position the gathered edge of the veil on top of the comb, ensuring the side you want showing is facing up.
• Using a threaded needle, stitch the veil securely to the comb by looping the thread around each tooth of the comb. Ensure each loop is tight.
• For a sturdier attachment, thread the needle through the ruched section of the veil.
• Check the orientation of the fabric and style the veil to ensure it sits correctly.

Decorating the Comb or Hair Clip:

You can further enhance your veil by decorating the comb or hair clip. This adds a personal touch and complements your overall bridal look. Here are some ideas:

• Sew or glue embellishments such as pearls, silk flowers, beads, or rhinestones onto the comb. Ensure these match your dress or other accessories.
• Wrap ribbon around the comb, especially if you want to cover the gathered edge of the veil. Choose a colour that matches or complements your veil and hairstyle.
• If using a hair clip, you can decorate it with rhinestones, feathers, beads, or other embellishments that match your dress.

Embellishing the veil

• Trim the edges: You can use a beaded trim for a delicate look or sew on some narrow, white, satin ribbon. If you are using ribbon, sew it an inch or two away from the edge first, then trim off the excess tulle.
• Decorate the comb: Sew or glue pearls, silk flowers, beads, or rhinestones onto the comb. Choose embellishments that match your dress. If you are gluing, use fabric glue instead of hot glue, which can get messy and may melt on a hot day.
• Add lace or beading: You can glue or sew on lace, pearls, crystals, or other embellishments. If you are using lace, cut it to match the length of your veil and let it dry completely before wearing.
• Add ribbon: You can add a ribbon trim to the bottom edge of your veil. Choose a thin, satin ribbon and pin it to the bottom tier, 1 to 2 inches away from the edge. Sew the ribbon on using a straight stitch on your sewing machine, then trim the excess tulle.

Frequently asked questions