Crafting And Selling Wedding Veils: A Beginner's Guide

Making and selling wedding veils can be a fun and lucrative business, especially with the average wedding costing around $30,000. Veils can be expensive, and many brides are choosing to go the DIY route, so there is a growing market for people selling handmade veils.

The first step to making a wedding veil is to decide what style you want to create. Veils come in different lengths, from shoulder-length to cathedral-length, and different shapes, from oval to circle to rounded rectangle. You'll also need to decide on the fabric. Tulle is the most common choice, but veils can also be made from organza, cotton, or linen. The fabric should be soft, fray-resistant, and a coordinating color to the wedding dress.

Once you've chosen your style and fabric, it's time to start creating. Measure the bride's head where the veil will sit, then measure to where you want the veil to fall. Cut your fabric to size, then round out the corners. Gather the fabric in the middle or across the width, then attach it to a comb or barrette. You can also add embellishments like lace, beads, or ribbon.

When it comes to selling wedding veils, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure you have a clear understanding of the bride's vision for her veil. Second, use high-quality materials that will make the veil look and feel expensive. Finally, be patient and don't try to be perfect—handmade items are unique and full of character.

With the right tools, techniques, and marketing strategy, you can successfully make and sell wedding veils.

How to cut the tulle for a wedding veil

Cutting the tulle for a wedding veil is a crucial step in the veil-making process. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to cut the tulle for a wedding veil:

Step 1: Measure and Prepare

First, decide on the desired length of your veil. Common veil lengths include shoulder, elbow, fingertip, floor, chapel, and cathedral. Measure the distance from where you want the veil to sit on your head to the desired length. For example, if you want an elbow-length veil, measure from the back of your head to the top of your rear, which should be around 32 inches.

Purchase your tulle fabric, keeping in mind that a wedding veil is oval-shaped. For an elbow-length veil, the length of the fabric will be around 72 inches, while the centre of the arc (the width) will be about 42 inches. Double-check the width of your tulle; it should be less than or equal to the measurement you took in the previous step.

Step 2: Fold and Mark the Tulle

Lay the tulle on a large table or clean floor, keeping it folded in half lengthwise. Place the folded edge closest to you. At this point, you should have two layers of tulle.

Now, fold the tulle in half again, but this time crosswise. You should now have four layers of tulle.

Measure the desired length of the veil from the top of your head down and mark this length on the tulle with pins.

Step 3: Cut the Tulle

Use paperweights or heavy objects to keep the layers of tulle from shifting and separating. Cut the tulle along the marked length, ensuring that your cut is straight and precise.

Step 4: Round the Corners (Optional)

If you want rounded corners on your veil, create a gradual curve on the outside edge of the fabric, which is where the two sides meet, rather than the centre fold. The curve can be subtle, but it will help soften the ends for a graceful finish.

Step 5: Unfold and Trim

Unfold the tulle and inspect the edges. If there are any uneven or jagged edges, carefully trim them with sharp scissors to create a smooth, symmetrical shape.

Now you have a beautifully cut piece of tulle ready for the next steps in creating your wedding veil!

How to attach a comb to a wedding veil

Making a wedding veil is a great way to save money and ensure you get the exact veil you want. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to attach a comb to a wedding veil:

Step 1: Prepare the comb

Using leftover tulle, wrap the comb in fabric. This will create a platform to stitch the veil onto. Cut a strip of tulle about 1 inch wide and long enough to wrap around the comb. Starting at one end, hold the end of the strip in place and wrap it around the end of the comb 3-4 times. Continue wrapping the fabric around the comb, going over the teeth 2-3 times, and adjust the number of wraps depending on how much bulk you want. When you reach the other side, wrap the fabric around the end of the comb again, trim any excess, and fold under the end to hide any raw edges. Pin and stitch the end of the strip in place.

Step 2: Gather the veil fabric

If your veil has two layers of fabric, fold the veil in half widthwise. Play around with the length of each layer to get the desired effect. For example, making one layer 10 inches shorter than the other can highlight any lace edging. If your veil only has one layer, skip the folding.

Step 3: Pin the veil to the comb

Decide where you want to gather the fabric and mark with pins. 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 fabric along the entire width. Baste along the gather line and pull on the ends of the basting threads to gather the fabric to the size of the comb. Pin the gathers in place along the top of the comb.

Step 4: Stitch the veil to the comb

Using small stitches, stitch the veil to the wrapped fabric on the comb. Make sure to stitch down every gather. Remove the basting threads when finished.

Step 5 (Optional): Cover the gathered edge

Cut a length of ribbon the size of your comb, plus a few inches. Pin the ribbon in place along the comb, covering the gathered edge and stitching. Stitch the ribbon in place along the top and bottom, wrapping any excess around the back of the comb. Tuck under the ends of the ribbon before stitching to prevent fraying.

And there you have it! Your very own custom wedding veil with an attached comb.

How to add lace to a wedding veil

Adding lace to a wedding veil is a great way to embellish and elevate the bride's ensemble. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to add lace to a wedding veil:

• Prepare the Materials: Choose the lace you want to work with. You can opt for lace appliques or lace by-the-yard, which you will need to cut. Gather hand sewing needles, such as sharps, suitable for delicate lace work. If you want to add beads along with the lace, you will also need beads of your choice and invisible thread.
• Pin the Veil: Hang the veil as it would be worn, using a dress form or a live model. Pin the lace onto the veil where you want it to be attached. If the bride is not present, take a photo to ensure the placement aligns with their vision.
• Sew the Lace: Using a matching thread, sew the lace onto the veil by hand. A running backstitch is recommended as it creates secure seams without putting too much stress on the delicate lace fabric. Avoid using invisible thread for sewing lace, as it can cause unwanted kinks in the fabric.
• Add Beads (Optional): If you wish to add beads along with the lace, thread your needle without knotting the end. Bring the needle up through the veil, add a 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 each side of the knot. Repeat this process to add as many beads as desired.
• Finish the Comb (Optional): If you want to add beads to the comb, continue using the invisible thread. Stitch down each bead individually, and then go back and stitch them together in groups of 3 or so. At the end of the row, secure the thread by making a blanket stitch and then running the needle through the comb's fabric.

By following these steps, you can create a beautiful and personalised wedding veil with lace details. Remember to take your time, especially when working with delicate fabrics and embellishments. Happy crafting!

How to add beads to a wedding veil

Adding beads to a wedding veil is a great way to add some sparkle and glamour to your bridal look. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Materials:

• Beads of your choice (consider size, colour, and shine)
• Invisible thread (specifically for beads)
• Hand sewing needles (a beading needle is recommended)
• Veil fabric (usually tulle)
• Hair comb
• Scissors
• Measuring tape
• Fabric marker
• Thimble (optional)

Step 1: Plan the Design

Before you start sewing, it's important to plan the design and placement of the beads. Hang the veil on a dress form, mannequin, or ask a friend to wear it. Pin the veil in place, so it hangs as it will on the bride. Decide where you want the beads to go. You can add beads to the veil fabric, the comb, or both. Mark the placement of the beads with pins or a fabric marker.

Step 2: Sew or Glue the Beads

If you are sewing the beads, use a beading needle and invisible thread. Do not knot the thread. Come up through the veil fabric and into the bead, 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.

If you are gluing the beads, use a hot glue gun with glue that is specifically designed for fabric. Place a thin layer of hot glue on the back of the bead and gently press it down onto the veil fabric until the glue sets.

Step 3: Add Beads to the Comb (Optional)

If you want to add beads to the comb, you can use invisible thread. Stitch the beads individually in a straight line, then go back and stitch them together every few beads. At the end of the row, secure the thread by making a blanket stitch and running the needle through the comb's fabric.

Step 4: Finalize the Veil

Once you have added all the beads, check the veil carefully to ensure that all the beads are secure. If you sewed the beads, check for any loose threads and trim them neatly. If you glued the beads, make sure the glue is completely dry before handling the veil further.

Step 5: Try on the Veil

Finally, try on the veil and adjust the placement of the beads as needed. Make sure the veil hangs nicely and the beads complement the overall design.

Adding beads to a wedding veil can be a time-consuming process, but it allows you to personalize your veil and make it truly unique. Enjoy creating your dream veil!

Where to buy materials for a wedding veil

When it comes to buying the materials to make a wedding veil, there are a few key things you'll need to consider. Firstly, the type of fabric you want to use. Tulle is a popular choice and can be made from silk or nylon, or even organza or a very fine cotton or linen fabric. You can also opt for something more luxurious like satin or embroidered lace.

Next, you'll need to decide on any embellishments you want to add to the veil. This could include beads, rhinestones, ribbons, or even fresh flowers. If you're looking for something more simple, you may just need some sharp scissors and straight pins to create your desired look.

Now, let's take a look at some places you can buy these materials:

• Bridal Fabric: This website offers a wide range of bridal veil supplies, including various fabrics, hair combs, and lace trims. They carry different widths and colors of illusion fabric to match your dress, as well as plastic and metal hair combs.
• Etsy: If you're looking for unique embellishments like beading or lace, Etsy is a great option. You can find a variety of handmade and vintage items to add that special touch to your veil.
• Local craft stores: Depending on your location, you may have large craft stores nearby, such as Joann's. These stores often have a wide variety of fabrics, ribbons, trims, and other supplies needed for making wedding veils.
• Online fabric stores: If you're unable to find what you're looking for locally, there are many online fabric stores that offer a vast selection of fabrics, including silk, satin, organza, and more.
• Local vintage shops: For an antique or non-traditional veil, try checking out your local vintage shops. You may be able to find unique fabrics, embellishments, or even a pre-made veil that you can alter to your liking.

Remember to measure the desired length and width of your veil before purchasing fabric, as this will help you determine how much material you need. It's always better to have a little extra fabric than not enough!

Frequently asked questions