Creating A Two-Tier Wedding Veil: A Step-By-Step Guide

A two-tier wedding veil is a veil that has a layer of tulle that can be pulled down over the face. This part, which falls across the face, is known as the blusher and is usually 72 cm long. This length can easily be adjusted depending on whether you'd like it shorter or longer.

A two-tier wedding veil does not mean that you have to wear the blusher over your face. Many brides choose not to wear it like this, but simply love the 'waterfall' effect a two-tier veil can create when it is pulled back. This shape is highlighted even further when the veil is finished in lace.

Making a two-tier veil is easy and inexpensive. All you need is some tulle, a needle and thread, a comb or barrette to attach the veil to, and any trim you want to add.

First, decide how long you want the veil to be. Then, purchase your tulle. You need to buy twice as much tulle as what you measured. This will give you enough fabric to create a second tier. Look for something that is between 72 and 108 inches wide. The wider the tulle, the fuller your veil will be.

Next, fold the tulle into fourths. When you purchase your tulle, it will come folded in half lengthwise. Spread the tulle down on the table or floor, with the original folded edge facing you. Grab the right narrow edge, and bring it towards the left narrow edge. Smooth the fabric down and make sure that everything is even.

If the tulle is too long, you can cut it down at this point.

Now, round the top-left edge of the rectangle. Place something large and round, such as a serving platter, on the top-left corner of your fabric (the corner without any folds). Trace an arc using a marker, then cut it out.

Make sure that the arc is going towards the bottom-right corner (the one with all the folds). This way, when you unfold the fabric, you'll get a rounded rectangle.

Unfold the tulle, then fold it in half partway. Unfold the tulle first so that you have a rounded rectangle. Bring one of the narrow edges towards the other end. This is your second tier, so how far you fold it is up to you. You can fold it all the way over to the other edge, or leave a small gap.

Double-check the length again. If the veil is too long, cut it shorter, and adjust the layers as needed.

Your veil may look much wider than it is long at this point. Don't worry, this is how it's supposed to be! The next few steps will fix this.

Now, sew across the folded, straight edge. You can sew it by hand using a running stitch, or you can sew it on a machine using a straight stitch. If you choose to sew it on a machine, sew two rows, about 1/2-inch apart. Do not knot off the end of the thread just yet.

For a full veil, sew all the way across the edge.

For a less-full veil, sew across the center part, leaving a gap on either side.

Gently tug on the end of your stitch until the tulle gathers. Keep tugging until the gathered area is the same width as your hair comb, about 2 to 4 inches wide. Tie the thread off into a secure knot, then cut off the excess.

If you used a sewing machine, tug on the bobbin threads.

Sew the tulle to a hair comb. Match up the top edge of the veil with the top edge of the comb. Sew the veil to the comb, looping the thread around the comb and between the prongs. Tie the thread off in a tight knot when you are done, then snip off the excess.

And there you have it! A beautiful, handmade two-tier veil.

Choosing the right tulle

The composition of bridal tulle is typically made from nylon or polyester, as these synthetic fibres provide the necessary stiffness and structure for creating voluminous skirts and veils. Nylon and polyester are also the most affordable, durable, resistant to wrinkles, and easy to care for. If you're looking for a more natural feel, rayon is a semi-synthetic option that is made from wood pulp and can be softer and smoother. However, it may be more difficult to work with if you're creating the veil yourself.

For the ultimate in luxury, silk is the most expensive and delicate option. It has a beautiful drape and sheen, but it may be more difficult to care for and prone to snagging and tearing. If you're on a budget, nylon or polyester tulle is a great choice, as it will give you the desired stiffness and structure at an affordable price.

When selecting the right tulle for your two-tier wedding veil, consider the length and style of your veil. Two-tier veils typically have a blusher that can be pulled down over the face, which is usually 72 cm long but can be adjusted to your preference. The tulle should be lightweight and soft to create a graceful drape without weighing down your head or hair.

In addition to the fabric type and veil style, you may also want to consider embellishments such as embroidery, beading, or sequins to add a whimsical touch to your veil. You can also choose from different knits, widths, and finishes to create a unique veil that complements your wedding dress and personal style.

Cutting the tulle

Step 1: Purchase the Tulle

First, decide how long you want the veil to be. A typical veil would come down to your fingertips, but other popular lengths include shoulder, elbow, floor, chapel, and cathedral. Next, purchase the tulle. Look for something that is around 72 inches (182.88 centimeters) wide. If you are making a shorter veil (i.e. shoulder length), consider getting something that is around 55 inches (139.7 centimeters) wide. If you are making a really long veil (i.e. floor or chapel), consider getting 108-inch (274.32-centimeter) wide tulle instead. This way, it will be more proportionate.

Step 2: Cut the Tulle

Cut the bottom of your veil into a rounded rectangle, if desired. You can leave your veil rectangular, but a rounded bottom will give you a nicer shape. Lay your tulle out with the bottom edge facing you. Fold the tulle in half, then cut the bottom (loose) corners off so that they are rounded. Your veil may look a lot wider than it is long at this point, but that is alright. Use a rotary cutter to cut your tulle—not hand scissors. That will help eliminate the chance that the edges will appear choppy. If you're making a blusher veil, cut it in a circle.

Step 3: Add Trim to the Edge (Optional)

Consider adding some trim to the rounded edge. You can hand-sew a beaded trim for something more delicate. You can also sew some narrow, white, satin ribbon instead. If you are sewing ribbon onto the edge, sew it an inch or two (2.54 to 5.08 centimeters) away from the edge first, then trim off the excess tulle. If you're planning to add trim, use a tulle that has a stiffer feel to it.

Step 4: Sew Across the Top Edge

Sew across the top, straight edge. You can do it by hand using a running stitch or on a sewing machine using a straight stitch. If you choose to do it on a machine, sew two rows, about ½-inch (1.27-centimeter) apart. For a full veil, sew all the way across the top, straight edge. For a less-full veil, sew across the center part, leaving a gap on either side.

Step 5: Gather Your Stitching

Gather your stitching, then tie the thread off. Gently tug on the end of your stitching until the tulle gathers. Keep pulling until the gathered area is the same width as your comb, about 2 to 4 inches (5.08 to 10.16 centimeters). Tie the thread off into a secure knot, then cut off the excess. If you used a sewing machine, pull on the bobbin threads.

Step 6: Sew the Tulle to a Comb

Sew the tulle to a hair comb. Match up the top edge of the veil with the top edge of the comb. Sew the veil to the comb, wrapping the thread around the comb and between the teeth. Tie the thread off in a tight knot, then snip off the excess. Some people like to wrap ribbon or extra around the comb first.

Adding trim

Choosing the Right Trim

Before you start, it's important to choose the right trim for your veil. Consider the overall style and theme of your wedding, as well as the design of your dress. You want the trim to complement and enhance your look, not overwhelm it. Think about the colour, width, and texture of the trim. If you're using ribbon, for example, a thin satin ribbon in a matching colour can add a delicate touch, while a wider ribbon with a different texture, such as organza or lace, can create a bolder statement.

Preparing the Veil

Once you've chosen your trim, it's time to prepare your veil. Cut the tulle to the desired length and shape, following the instructions provided earlier. If you're making a two-tier veil, you'll need to cut and layer the tulle accordingly. Remember to allow for some extra length if you plan to gather the veil at the top.

Attaching the Trim

There are a few different ways to attach the trim to your veil, depending on the type of trim you've chosen:

• Sewing: This is the most common method and can be done by hand or using a sewing machine. If you're using a sewing machine, use a straight stitch and sew two rows, about 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) apart. If you're sewing by hand, use a running stitch.
• Gluing: If you don't want to sew, you can use fabric glue to attach the trim. However, avoid using hot glue, as it can melt the tulle.
• Adhesive: For trims like rhinestones or pearls, you can use an adhesive to attach them individually.

Positioning the Trim

When positioning the trim, consider the overall look you want to achieve. For a delicate, understated look, you may want to attach the trim close to the edge of the veil, leaving a small border of tulle showing. For a bolder look, you can attach the trim further in, covering more of the tulle. If you're using a wide trim, such as a ribbon, you may want to attach it along the edge of the veil, allowing the trim to extend beyond the edge for a dramatic effect.

Finishing Touches

Once you've attached the trim, take a step back and assess the overall look. If needed, you can trim the excess tulle close to the trim, being careful not to cut the trim itself. If you're using a ribbon trim, you can also add a finishing touch by sewing a thin ribbon on top of the raw edge of the ribbon, creating a clean, finished look.

Sewing the tulle

Step 1: Cut the Tulle to the Desired Length

First, you need to decide how long you want your veil to be. A typical veil would come down to your fingertips, but other popular lengths include shoulder, elbow, floor, chapel, and cathedral. Get a helper to measure down from the top of your head to where you want the veil to end. Then, cut the tulle to that length. If you want a rounded veil, cut the bottom of your veil into a rounded rectangle. You can also add some trim to the rounded edge, such as a beaded trim or a narrow, white, satin ribbon.

Step 2: Sew Across the Top Edge

You can sew the top edge by hand using a running stitch or on a sewing machine using a straight stitch. If you choose to do it on a machine, sew two rows, about 1/2 inch apart. For a full veil, sew all the way across the top, straight edge. For a less-full veil, sew across the center part, leaving a gap on either side.

Step 3: Gather the Tulle

Gather your stitching, then tie the thread off. Gently tug on the end of your stitching until the tulle gathers. Keep tugging until the gathered area is the same width as your comb, about 2 to 4 inches. Tie the thread off into a secure knot, then snip off the excess. If you used a sewing machine, pull on the bobbin threads.

Step 4: Sew the Tulle to a Hair Comb

Match up the top edge of the veil with the top edge of the comb. Sew the veil to the comb, wrapping the thread around the comb and between the teeth. Tie the thread off in a tight knot, then snip off the excess. Some people like to wrap ribbon or extra tulle around the comb first.

Step 5: Decorate the Comb (Optional)

You can decorate the comb with pearls, silk flowers, beads, or rhinestones. You can also glue something on, but use fabric glue instead of hot glue, which tends to get messy and can melt on a hot day.

Decorating the comb

When it comes to decorating the comb of a two-tier wedding veil, there are several options to choose from. Here are some detailed instructions and ideas to help you get started:

Selecting the Right Comb

Firstly, choose a comb that complements the veil's style and length. For short veils, a simple comb or vintage-inspired clip is ideal. Medium-length veils can be paired with various headpieces, such as tiaras, floral crowns, or statement combs. Longer veils often work best with more substantial headpieces like crowns. Consider the density of gathers on the veil and the width of the comb to ensure they are in proportion. If you have an extra-wide veil comb, pair it with a longer, narrower comb. Avoid plastic combs as they can appear heavy and chunky; instead, opt for fine metal combs that are stronger, sturdier, and more flexible.

Adding Embellishments

You can decorate your comb by gluing on embellishments such as rhinestones, crystals, pearls, or lace. Experiment with different patterns and arrangements to find what you like best. For example, scatter crystals randomly or create a pattern that is denser at the top and spaced farther apart at the bottom. If your gown is plain, consider adding more sparkle to your veil. On the other hand, if your gown is already embellished, opt for a more subdued veil to avoid overwhelming your look. Remember to keep the decorations on both sides of the blusher similar, as both sides will be visible at different times during the wedding.

Attaching the Comb

When attaching the comb to the veil, consider using thread instead of glue or felt. Sewing the comb provides a harder hold and ensures the veil and comb stay securely attached. Begin by wrapping a strip of tulle around the comb's teeth, then sew the comb to the veil where the blusher transitions into the main veil. Position the comb so that it curves toward your head with the teeth pointing backward. If you don't have a blusher, sew the comb onto the veil so that it flips back over the comb base, neatly hiding the raw edges.

Frequently asked questions