Creating A Cathedral Wedding Veil: A Simple Guide

A cathedral veil is a nod to tradition, adding a touch of drama to the bridal look. If you're looking to make a single-tier cathedral wedding veil, you'll need some tulle, a comb, and basic sewing supplies. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you create your own veil:

First, decide on the length and width of your veil. Cathedral veils are typically between 108 and 120 inches long, but you can customise the length to suit your height and preference. The width of the tulle should be around 108 inches for a standard veil, providing a full veil without being overwhelming.

Next, lay out your tulle on a clean, spacious surface. Fold the tulle in half vertically and then in half horizontally. Mark the desired curve of the veil with pins, then cut the excess fabric with a rotary cutter or scissors. Unfold your tulle to reveal a beautifully rounded veil.

Now it's time to attach the veil to the comb. Cut a strip of tulle and wrap it around the teeth of the comb, securing it with stitches. Sew the top of the veil onto the wrapped comb, taking your time to ensure a secure fit.

Finally, add any desired embellishments. You can leave the edges of your veil as they are for a simple, ethereal look, or add a trim for a more defined appearance. Satin ribbon edging, for example, adds a regal touch.

And there you have it! Your very own single-tier cathedral wedding veil, ready to complete your bridal ensemble.

Choosing the veil length

Choosing the right veil length is crucial to achieving the desired look and feel for your wedding. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the length of your single-tier cathedral wedding veil:

Venue and Practicality:

Before deciding on the veil length, consider the venue and practicality of wearing a long veil. If you're planning a beach wedding, a backyard gathering, or an intimate wedding in a small space, a shorter veil might be more practical. A long cathedral veil can be cumbersome and difficult to manage in such settings. However, if you have your heart set on a cathedral veil, you can always drape it over your arm to keep it off the ground.

Dress Style and Proportions:

The style and proportions of your wedding dress play a significant role in choosing the right veil length. A single-tier cathedral veil can add drama and elegance to your look. Consider the silhouette of your dress—a ball gown, mermaid, or A-line dress will each pair well with different veil lengths. For example, a ball gown tends to have a defined waist, so a waist-length or fingertip veil can accentuate that feature. Meanwhile, a mermaid or trumpet dress often has a flared skirt, so a mid-length or fingertip veil can showcase that detail beautifully.

Hairstyle and Comfort:

Your hairstyle and comfort are also important considerations when choosing a veil length. A cathedral veil can be quite long and may require a supportive hairstyle, such as an updo or a half-up-half-down style, to ensure it stays in place comfortably throughout the day. Additionally, consider the weight and volume of the veil and choose a hairstyle that can securely hold it without feeling too heavy or restrictive.

Personal Preference and Vision:

Ultimately, the choice of veil length should align with your personal preference and vision for your wedding day look. If you want a dramatic and regal entrance, a longer cathedral veil will make a bold statement. On the other hand, if you prefer a more understated and elegant look, a shorter veil that falls gracefully at your elbows or fingertips might be a better choice.

Veil Length Options:

Cathedral veils typically range from 108 to 120 inches (270 to 300 cm) in length, but you can also find regal or royal cathedral veils that are even longer, measuring up to 180 inches (450 cm). Keep in mind that the veil should be at least 5 inches (13 cm) longer than the train of your dress. When deciding on the length, consider your height, the length of your dress, and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve.

Cutting the veil

Step 1: Prepare the Tulle Fabric

Before cutting, you need to measure and prepare the tulle fabric. First, decide on the desired length of your veil. Cathedral veils typically range from 108 to 120 inches (270-300 cm) in length, but you can customise it to your preference. Purchase at least 10 feet (3 metres) of tulle to give yourself ample fabric to work with.

Next, find a clean, spacious area to lay out your fabric. A large table or a clean section of the floor will do. Lay the tulle flat and fold it vertically, and then horizontally, in half. This ensures that your cuts will be symmetrical.

Step 2: Mark the Cutting Line

With your fabric folded, it's time to mark the cutting line. Use pins to indicate the curve you will cut. Start by pinning the fabric together at the desired angle, creating an arc. The sharper the angle, the more dramatic the look of your veil. A softer, smoother arc will result in a more conventional appearance.

If you need guidance, measure the width of your folded veil and note that distance from the bottom. That marked point is the end of your curve. Continue adjusting the pins until you're satisfied with the arc.

Step 3: Cut the Tulle

Now it's time to cut the tulle. Place a cutting board underneath the area you've pinned to protect your work surface. Use a fabric rotary cutter to carefully trim the layers of tulle just outside of your pinned line. Take your time and cut slowly to ensure a smooth edge.

Remember, it doesn't have to be absolutely perfect. The bottom of the veil will drag on the floor, and the top will be hidden by your hair and the comb, so minor imperfections won't be noticeable.

Step 4: Unfold and Inspect the Veil

After cutting, unfold your tulle veil and lay it out again. Check the curved corners for any stray fabric or flyaways. If you spot any imperfections, carefully trim them with fabric scissors to ensure a clean edge.

If you desire a thicker veil, you can repeat the entire cutting process to create a second layer. This additional layer can be sewn underneath the first layer near the comb for a fuller appearance.

Now that you've cut your veil, you're ready to move on to the next steps of assembling and decorating your single-tier cathedral wedding veil!

Sewing the veil

Now that you have your veil fabric, it's time to start sewing!

Firstly, you'll want to gather the veil, creating poufs and some fullness around where the material attaches to the comb. With a needle and knotted thread, start at the corner of the tulle and loop the thread through the netting a few times so it doesn't come loose. Then, move the needle in and out of the netting in large stitches, going across the width of the material. Periodically, pull the thread through and scrunch the already-woven tulle to the knotted end of the thread. When you reach the other side, adjust the gathers to the width of your veil comb and tie off the thread there. Repeat this process for the second layer of tulle, if you are using one.

Now, it's time to attach the comb to the veil. Line up the gathered area of the tulle along the top of the comb. Sew big loops around the top of the comb, at every second tooth gap, with several loops at each interval. Make sure that the sections of the veil you take are very small, so as not to create a pucker in the fabric. This might look messy, but the gathered tulle will cover up any odd or white stitching.

If you want to add lace trim to the veil, make sure it is oriented correctly. Turn the bridal lace so the embroidered part is facing down and any knots and netting are on top. Assure the veil is also backside up, so the velvety side of the Velcro is showing. Now, slide the trim under the edge of the tulle. You will sew with the materials in this position. When you turn the whole thing over, the beautiful part of the lace will be on top, covering the veil's edge.

Make large, loose stitches as you run the needle through the tulle and catch the embroidered back of the lace. Do not push the needle through the trim and do not overly tighten the thread. Continue around the veil until you reach the other side and tie off the thread underneath.

Finishing touches

To make your veil wedding-day ready, steam out any wrinkles with a hand steamer or by hanging the veil in a steamy bathroom. If your tulle is polyester or nylon, you can also use an iron on the appropriate setting.

Adding embellishments

Embellishments can be added to a single-tier cathedral wedding veil to make it unique and special. Here are some ideas and instructions on how to add embellishments:

Lace Trim

Lace trim can be added to the edge of the veil for a subtle, defined look. Choose a lace trim that complements the style and colour of the veil. It can be sewn on by hand or with a sewing machine, depending on your skill level and preference. If sewing by hand, use a running backstitch to attach the lace, as this will not put too much stress on the delicate fabric. If using a sewing machine, use lightweight or invisible thread.

Ribbon Edge

A ribbon edge is an elegant addition to a simple veil. Choose a colour that matches or complements the veil. Satin ribbon, in particular, will give a royal vibe to your veil. Sew or glue the ribbon along the edge of the veil. If gluing, do a small test area first to ensure the glue does not discolour or mottle the ribbon.

Pearls or Beads

Pearls or beads can be stuck or sewn randomly onto the veil for a dramatic effect. You can use pearl or bead trim, or attach individual pearls or beads by hand. If sewing, use a beading needle and invisible thread. Do not knot the thread, but instead, tie a square knot on the back of the fabric for each bead.

Floral Appliqué

Floral appliqué can be added to a veil for a romantic and dreamy effect. You can buy embroidered lace appliqués and sew them onto the veil by hand. Consider placing the appliqué along the top of the veil to frame the shoulders and hairstyle, or along the train of the veil if the top of the dress is detailed.

Sequins

Sequins can be used as embellishments on their own or in combination with other elements such as beads. They can be sewn on individually or in a pattern, such as a mini scalloped pattern along the edge of the veil.

Bows and Ribbons

Velvet or satin ribbons can be incorporated into the comb of the veil and tied into a bow for a playful touch. You can also add multiple ribbons in different colours if they suit the colour scheme of your wedding.

Attaching the veil to a comb

Now that you've gathered the veil, it's time to attach it to the comb. This process will involve sewing the veil onto the comb, ensuring that it is secure and can be easily worn. Here are the steps to follow:

Start by lining up the gathered edge of the veil with the top of the comb. You want the top of the comb to be aligned with the top of your gathering. This will ensure that the veil sits properly on your head.

Using a needle and thread, sew big loops around the top of the comb. Go through each tooth gap, making several loops at each interval. Continue sewing along the width of the comb and secure the thread at the end. Make sure that you only take small sections of the veil with each stitch to avoid creating puckers in the fabric.

When attaching the veil to the comb, it's important to use small stitches and to go slowly. This will help you achieve a neat and secure finish. Take your time and don't rush this step.

Once you've sewn the veil onto the comb, check that it is secure by gently tugging on the fabric. If it holds in place, you've successfully attached the veil to the comb!

At this point, you can also add any additional embellishments or decorations to the comb if desired. This could include things like ribbons, bows, sequins, or flower appliques. Get creative and add any details that suit your personal style and the overall look of your wedding.

Remember, this is your special day, so feel free to customise your veil however you like! You can keep it simple and classic or add some extra sparkle—it's entirely up to you.

Frequently asked questions