Create A Single-Comb Birdcage Veil For Your Wedding Day

Birdcage veils are a popular choice for brides, but they can be expensive. Luckily, they are easy to make at home. To make a single comb birdcage veil, you will need some veil or millinery netting, a comb, thread, and any embellishments you want to add, such as flowers, feathers, or rhinestones. You will also need basic sewing supplies, such as a needle and scissors. First, cut the netting to size, usually around 9 inches by 16-18 inches. Then, fold the netting in half and cut the top corner at an angle to create a trapezoid shape when unfolded. Next, sew across the top and angled edges of the netting, gathering the fabric as you go to create a scrunchy effect. Finally, attach the netting to the comb by wrapping thread or ribbon around the comb and stitching the netting securely. You can now add any embellishments you like to the comb or netting.

Cut the netting

To cut the netting for a single-comb birdcage wedding veil, you will need to start by measuring and cutting the netting material. For a standard birdcage veil, cut the netting to a height of 9 inches (22.86 centimetres) and a width of 16 to 18 inches (40.64 to 45.72 centimetres). If you prefer a veil that wraps all the way around your head, measure the circumference of your head and add a couple of inches to this measurement for the width.

When cutting the netting, try to cut straight across the connecting dots between the diamonds in the netting. This will give you a neater finish. You can use a rotary cutter or sharp fabric scissors to cut the netting material.

If you want to create a bandeau-style birdcage veil, cut a piece of 9-inch veiling material to a length of 36 inches. This will give you a relatively full veil with many gathers. You can cut the netting shorter for a veil that lays closer to your head with fewer gathers. If you are unsure, it is best to cut the netting longer, and then you can always shorten it later if needed. It is also a good idea to buy extra fabric so that you can experiment with different looks and allow for any mistakes.

Once you have cut the netting to the desired size, you will need to fold the netting in half widthwise. Lay the netting with one of the long edges facing you, and fold the right narrow edge towards the left narrow edge. Smooth the netting flat, and then you can proceed to cut the top-left corner of the folded edge at an angle. The amount you cut off will depend on how you want the veil to fall across your face. Typically, you will cut off about 4 inches (10.16 centimetres) at the corner. Again, try to cut through the connecting dots between the diamonds for a neater finish.

Now you have cut the netting to size and shape, you are ready to start assembling your veil.

Sew the netting

Now, it's time to sew the netting. Thread your needle with a thread that matches your netting. You can use clear thread if you want to make it less visible.

Start sewing at the bottom of the left angle, across the top straight edge, and down towards the bottom of the right angle. Sew through the last row of diamonds to avoid a scrunchy hem. Sew by hand, not on a sewing machine.

Gently tug on the thread until the gathered edge matches the length of your comb. In most cases, this will be about 2 inches (5.08 centimeters). Tie the thread off and snip off the excess. Adjust the gathers so that they fall between the knots at each end of your sewing for a neater finish.

If you prefer a less full veil, sew across the centre of the netting, leaving a gap on either side. Pull the thread tight so that the veil scrunches up, and adjust the length to match your comb. Make sure to re-adjust the way it's scrunched and where the creases fall before you tie your knot.

Gather the netting

To make a single-comb birdcage wedding veil, you'll need to start by gathering the right materials. Birdcage veils are traditionally made with wide "fishnet-style" netting, but you can also use tulle, lace, or multiple types of veil material for a unique look. You can find netting specifically marketed as birdcage veil netting, or opt for Russian or French netting, which has fairly wide mesh. You'll need about a yard of netting—enough to cut out a 12-by-24-inch rectangle.

When you've gathered your netting, cut a 12-by-24-inch rectangle of paper and cut off the top corners to create a template. Lay the netting on top of the template and cut the netting to match the template shape, making sure to cut along the natural lines of the netting.

Now it's time to gather the netting. Thread a needle with sturdy thread that matches the colour of your veil. Secure the thread to the netting at one corner, next to the longest edge, and make stitches through the netting along each of the three short sides. This will gather the netting into a rounded "cage" shape.

At this point, you can use a steamer to soften the fibres of the netting, making it easier to shape the veil.

Attach the comb

Now that you have gathered all the materials and cut the veil to your desired length, it is time to attach the comb.

Attaching the Comb

First, wrap the comb with a ribbon. This will give you a base to sew the veil onto. Choose a ribbon that matches the colour of your veil or netting. Starting at one end, wrap the ribbon through the teeth of the comb and tie a knot. Continue to wrap the ribbon between the teeth and over the top of the comb until you reach the other end, and tie another knot.

Next, sew the veil to the back of the comb. You can also use hot glue if you don't want to sew or have reached your sewing limit. Make sure the teeth of the comb are facing towards the top of the veil, so that you can secure it at the top or sides of your head. You can also attach the comb to the veil using a slip knot. Secure the thread to the end of the cut edge opposite the comb. Weave the thread in and out of the diamond patterns along the cut edge towards the comb, then thread it through the hole in the comb or wrap the thread at the base of the furthest comb tooth. Pull the thread tight so that the cut edge is gathered against the comb. Secure the thread to the underside of the comb so that it is hidden when you wear the veil.

If you are using a plain comb, you can decorate it with embellishments such as rhinestones, pearls, beads, or silk flowers. Sew these onto the comb, making sure to choose something that matches your dress. If you must glue something on, use fabric glue as hot glue can get messy and melt on a hot day.

Embellish the veil

Embellishing your veil is a great way to make your wedding veil unique to you. There are many ways to do this, from using trim and beading to adding crystals, pearls, or other decorations. Here are some ideas and instructions for embellishing your single-comb birdcage wedding veil:

• Choose your embellishments: Select from a variety of options such as rhinestones, crystals, feathers, flowers, or anything else that excites you. You can also choose to add trim to the edge of your veil, such as a ribbon, lace, or beaded edge.
• Decide on placement: Consider whether you want your embellishments clustered together in one area or scattered throughout the veil. You can also choose to add them to just the comb, using it as a base for your design.
• Attach the embellishments: This can be done in a variety of ways, depending on the type of embellishment and the effect you want to achieve. Sewing, hot glue, or even double-sided tape can be used to attach most embellishments. If you're adding crystals, a hot glue gun or sewing can secure them, and you can also use hotfix crystals with an applicator tool, iron, or heat press.
• Experiment and adjust: If you're unsure about the placement or amount of embellishments, it's a good idea to start small and experiment. This way, you can adjust the design as you go and ensure you don't overdo it.
• Finish securely: Ensure that all embellishments are securely attached, especially if they are heavier items like large rhinestones or crystals. You want to avoid any accidents on your big day!
• Step back and admire: Once you're happy with the placement and security of your embellishments, take a step back and admire your handiwork. You've now created a unique and personalised veil for your wedding day.

Frequently asked questions