George Boyle
Making a princess wedding dress can be a daunting task, but it is not impossible. Whether you're creating a big princess dress or a small, simple one, there are many tips, tutorials, and hacks available to help you along the way. Before you begin, it is important to consider the type of fabric and the amount of fabric you will need. You should also decide on the style of the dress, including the shape of the skirt, the type of sleeves, and any embellishments you want to add. Once you have a plan in place, you can start bringing your princess wedding dress to life, using techniques such as sewing, embroidery, and quilting.
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What You'll Learn
Choosing a pattern and fabric
Pattern:
Firstly, decide on the style of the dress. Do you want a Cinderella-inspired ball gown with a hoop skirt, or a more fitted silhouette? Consider the type of sleeves you prefer, such as puffed sleeves or classic Snow White-style sleeves. If you're unsure, browse online platforms like Etsy, Instagram, or Reddit for inspiration and pattern ideas. You can also modify existing patterns to suit your vision, such as making the skirt bigger or adding corset detailing.
Fabric:
The type and amount of fabric required will depend on the pattern you choose. For a full and voluminous skirt, you'll need multiple layers of fabric, such as tulle, organza, or satin. For a Cinderella-style dress, consider using 5-6 layers of tulle over an underskirt. The underskirt is typically pleated or gathered to fit the bodice lining, and it requires less width at the top than the tulle layers. Remember that gathered skirts use more fabric than you might expect, so calculate your fabric requirements carefully.
If you're creating a bodice with a lace overlay, you may want to use cotton Lycra for the back and a combination of cotton Lycra and organza for the front, with lace topstitched on top. You can add embellishments like ruffles, ribbons, and flowers using the same or contrasting fabric. Keep in mind that certain fabrics, like satin, can add comfort and a bit of stretch to your design.
Practical Considerations:
Think about the practicality of your dress. If it's for a wedding, consider choosing a fabric that won't drag on the ground and ruin the hem. Additionally, keep in mind that some fabrics, like silk, may be less comfortable to wear for extended periods. Always plan to make a toile for the bodice and sleeves to ensure a perfect fit, as most people have unique body shapes that may require pattern alterations.
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Measuring and cutting
Before you begin measuring and cutting, it is essential to choose a suitable fabric for your dress. Satin, tulle, organza, and lace are popular choices for creating a princess-style gown. Consider the drape and volume you desire for your skirt and select a fabric that complements your vision.
Measuring:
- Skirt Measurement: Measure from an inch below the armpit to the desired hem length. Add 3 inches to this measurement to allow for the waist seam and bottom hem. This will be the length of your skirt. If you want a floor-length skirt, measure from the waist to the floor and add some extra length as desired for a dramatic effect.
- Waist Measurement: Measure the narrowest part of the torso, usually just above the belly button. This measurement will be crucial for creating a well-fitted bodice and attaching the skirt.
- Bodice Measurement: Measure from the armpit to the waist. This will give you the length of the bodice. Additionally, take measurements for the bust, including the fullest part, and the length between the apex points.
- Sleeves: Decide on the sleeve style, such as puffed sleeves or classic Snow White-style sleeves. Measure the arm length from the shoulder to the desired sleeve length. For puffed sleeves, consider adding extra fabric for volume.
- Fabric Amount: Determine the amount of fabric required by referring to the measurements taken. For a full skirt, you may need multiple layers of fabric, such as tulle or organza. Each layer should be cut to the full width of the fabric.
Cutting:
- Skirt: Cut the fabric for the skirt according to the measurements taken. If your fabric has a pattern or grain, ensure that the pattern pieces are placed correctly. Cut a full width of fabric for the skirt length and then cut this piece in half to create the front and back skirt panels.
- Bodice: Cut the fabric for the bodice front and back pieces. Consider cutting the bodice slightly larger to allow for adjustments during fitting. If using a pattern, follow the cutting layout provided.
- Sleeves: Cut the fabric for the sleeves, ensuring that the grainlines, if any, are straight. Cut the sleeves slightly longer than your measured length to allow for hemming.
- Underskirt: If your design includes an underskirt, cut the fabric according to the waist and hip measurements. The underskirt should have a narrower width at the top compared to the tulle layers.
- Fabric Strips: Cut fabric strips for any embellishments, such as ruffles or flowers. For example, cut 5-inch wide strips from the entire width of the fabric for ruffles.
Remember to plan and cut your fabric carefully, considering the grainlines and pattern directions. Always cut slightly larger than your measurements to allow for adjustments and seam allowances. It is better to have extra fabric that can be trimmed later than to cut too close and risk ruining your dress.
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Sewing the bodice
Plan and Prepare:
Before you begin sewing, it is essential to have a clear plan and all the necessary materials. Choose a bodice pattern that suits your vision and ensure you have enough fabric, allowing for any necessary alterations. Consider the type of fabric you will be using, such as satin, tulle, or organza, and whether you will be adding embellishments like ruffles, ribbons, or lace. It is also important to make a toile for the bodice to ensure a perfect fit, as most people have unique body shapes that may require adjustments to the pattern.
Cut the Fabric:
Using your chosen pattern, carefully cut out the fabric pieces for the bodice. Cut out the back bodice, side front bodice, and any sleeve pieces following the pattern instructions. If you are adding ruffles or other embellishments, cut the necessary strips of fabric. For example, you might cut 5-inch-wide strips of satin for ruffles or a flower embellishment.
Sew the Bodice:
With your fabric pieces ready, it's time to start assembling the bodice. Sew the front and back bodice pieces together at the sides and shoulders, ensuring precise stitching. If your design includes sleeves, attach them securely to the bodice. For a professional finish, consider the type of sleeve and the ease of wear—princess-style dresses often feature puffed or ruffled sleeves, which can be created using lightweight fabric.
Add Embellishments:
Embellishments add a unique touch to your wedding dress. Sew any ruffles, ribbons, or lace onto the bodice, ensuring they are securely attached. If using lace, consider topstitching it onto the bodice or straps after creating them to hide the seams neatly. You can also add a corset-style closure to the back of the bodice for an elegant and adjustable fit, or opt for a zipper or button closure.
Finalize the Bodice:
Once the bodice is assembled, carefully try it on or have your wearer try it on to ensure a perfect fit. Make any necessary adjustments, such as taking in seams or letting them out for comfort and ease of movement. Finally, secure all seams with backstitching or knots, and press the bodice to smooth out any wrinkles.
Creating a princess wedding dress bodice requires time, patience, and attention to detail. Take pride in your work and enjoy the process of bringing your vision to life!
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Creating the skirt
Creating a princess wedding dress is no small feat—even experienced seamstresses can take months to make such a dress. The skirt, in particular, requires a lot of fabric.
To create the skirt, you will first need to measure the length from an inch below the armpit to where you want the hem of the dress to fall. Add 3 inches to this measurement to account for the waist seam and bottom hem. Next, cut a full width of the fabric in this length. For example, if your fabric is 54″ wide, cut a piece of fabric that is 54″ by the length you measured earlier plus 3 inches. Cut this piece in half so that you have a skirt front and skirt back piece.
The type of fabric you use for the skirt is important. Normal tulle, for example, will make the skirt scratchy and bunchy, and it won't wash well. Instead, opt for foiled tulle, which will be softer and prettier, and will hold up in the wash. You will need multiple layers of tulle for a princess wedding dress—about 5 or 6 layers, with each layer possibly requiring 5 meters of fabric.
If you are using tulle, you will need to gather it with a special sewing machine attachment called a ruffler. You can then attach the gathered tulle to the bodice. For a more detailed look, you can add ruffles to the skirt. To do this, cut 5″ wide strips from the full width of the fabric and sew them to the skirt, securing it at the end with several knots of thread.
Finally, you will need to create an underskirt. The underskirt should be made from a soft and slightly slippery fabric. It should not have the same width at the top of the skirt as the tulle layers. The underskirt can be pleated or gathered to fit the bodice lining.
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Adding final touches
Once you have the basic structure of your princess wedding dress, it's time to add the final touches. This is where you can really make the dress your own and add some unique, personal touches. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Embellishments
Add some fun embellishments like ruffles, ribbons, and flowers. You can use ruffles and ribbons to create a romantic, whimsical look, while flowers can add a touch of elegance and sophistication. Consider using gold ribbon and stitching it to the centre of the bodice, as seen in some princess dress tutorials. You can also add corset detailing to the bodice for an old-school princess feel.
Layers
Princess dresses are often known for their full, twirlable skirts, and this is usually achieved through multiple layers. Tulle is a popular choice for creating volume, with some dresses using up to 5 or 6 layers. You can also add layers of organza, lace, and satin to create a luxurious and textured look. Remember to consider the weight of the fabric when creating these layers, as heavier fabrics will require less width.
Length
Most princess wedding dresses are designed to sweep the floor, but you may want to adjust the length for practicality. Consider your footwear and ensure that the dress is the appropriate length for your chosen shoes. You don't want to be tripping over your dress or having it drag on the ground.
Shoes
Speaking of shoes, don't forget to choose a pair that you can comfortably wear throughout your wedding day. It's important to strike a balance between style and comfort. You don't want to be in pain or constantly changing your shoes, as this can ruin your special day.
Accessories
Complete your princess wedding dress look with carefully chosen accessories. Consider a shawl, gloves, or a veil to add extra elegance and sophistication to your ensemble. You can also play around with different hairstyles and jewellery to find the perfect finishing touches.
Remember, the final touches are all about personalising your dress and making it truly yours. Take your time, be creative, and don't be afraid to ask for help or advice from experienced seamstresses or designers.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a lot of fabric, including several layers of tulle, organza, and satin. You will also need lace, cotton jersey, and fabric for a shoulder shawl. Additionally, consider embellishments like ruffles, ribbons, and flowers.
The amount of fabric required depends on the desired length and fullness of the skirt. For a full skirt, you may need between 2.33 and 2.69 meters of fabric length, or even more. For each layer of the skirt, plan for 1.25 yards of fabric.
Consider using a wedding dress pattern or a Cinderella dress pattern as a starting point. You can also add a hoop skirt for a more dramatic effect. Use patterns to visualize the shape and silhouette you want to achieve. Plan to make a toile for the bodice and sleeves to ensure a proper fit.
You can add corset detailing to the bodice for an old-school princess feel. Embellishments like ruffles, ribbons, and flowers can also be added for a whimsical touch. Consider using gold lace as an overlay on the bodice and skirt for a luxurious look.
