Creating A Lace Wedding Veil: A Step-By-Step Guide

A wedding veil is a small but important part of a wedding. It can be a symbol of tradition or a break from it. Making your own veil is a great way to save money and add a personal touch to your wedding.

1. Materials: You will need tulle (also known as netting), a comb or barrette, a needle and thread, and any lace, trim, or other decorative elements you want to add. Tulle is available in different widths, so choose the width that best suits your desired veil length and fullness.

2. Measure and Cut the Tulle: Decide where you want your veil to sit on your head and measure the length you want it to fall. Cut the tulle to the desired length, allowing for some extra fabric for gathering. Fold the tulle in half lengthwise and crosswise to create four layers. Cut the top left corner of the fabric to create a rounded edge, then unfold the tulle completely.

3. Gather the Tulle: Decide whether you want the sides of the veil to come up to your head or not. Gather the tulle in the middle or across the entire width, depending on your preference. Use a needle and strong thread to gather the tulle, pulling it together so that it is about 2 inches wide. Knot the thread securely.

4. Attach the Veil to a Comb or Barrette: You can use a simple French comb, a barrette, or any headpiece you prefer. Sew the gathered portion of the tulle securely to the comb or barrette. If you plan to wear a tiara, you can sew the veil to a simple French comb so that you can remove the veil for the reception while keeping the tiara on.

5. Add Lace and Other Embellishments: You can decorate your veil further by sewing a thin satin ribbon along the edges. You can also sew or glue tiny sparkling beads, gemstones, or other decorative elements onto your veil. Get creative and make your veil unique!

Choosing the right lace

• Consider the type of lace: There are two main types of lace: appliques and lace by-the-yard. Appliques are individual pieces of lace that can be sewn onto the veil, while lace by-the-yard is a continuous piece of lace that can be cut to the desired length.
• Choose the right colour: The lace should complement the colour of your wedding gown. If you are wearing a white dress, opt for white or ivory lace. For an off-white or cream-coloured dress, choose a lace that matches the shade of your gown.
• Select the right width: The width of the lace should be proportional to the width of your veil. If you are making a single-tier veil, a narrower lace will work best. For a fuller, more dramatic veil, choose a wider lace.
• Consider the length: The length of the lace should be at least one yard longer than the length of your veil. This will ensure that you have enough lace to go around the entire perimeter of the veil.
• Think about the trim: If you are adding a trim to your veil, such as ribbon or beading, make sure the lace complements the trim. For example, if you are using a thin ribbon trim, choose a delicate lace with a similar width.
• Go for a test run: Before committing to a particular lace, consider doing a test run by pinning it to your veil and seeing how it looks. This will help you visualize the finished product and ensure that you are happy with the overall look.
• Be creative: Don't be afraid to think outside the box when choosing your lace. You can use recycled materials, such as lace from an old wedding dress or beads from broken jewellery. This will add a unique and personal touch to your veil.

Cutting the lace to size

Step 1: Measure the Veil Length

Before cutting the lace, you need to determine the desired length of your veil. Common wedding veil lengths include shoulder, elbow, fingertip, floor, chapel, and cathedral. Measure from the point where you want the veil to sit on your head to the desired length. This will be the total length of your veil, including the lace. Mark this length on the lace with a pin or a fabric marker.

Step 2: Cut the Lace

Once you have measured and marked the desired length, it's time to cut the lace. Using sharp scissors, carefully cut the lace along the marked line. Ensure that the cut is straight and even. If you are using a scalloped or patterned lace, follow the pattern as closely as possible to maintain the design.

Step 3: Allow for Gathering

If your veil design includes gathering or pleats, you will need to allow for extra lace. Decide on the width of the gathering or pleats and add that length to the total veil length before cutting. This will ensure that you have enough lace to create the desired effect.

Step 4: Cut in Half

If you are creating a two-tiered veil or a veil with a blusher, you will need to cut the lace in half lengthwise. This will give you two pieces of lace, each half the width of the original piece. You can then attach these pieces to the veil separately, creating a layered effect.

Step 5: Hem the Edges (Optional)

Depending on the type of lace you are using, you may want to hem the edges to prevent fraying. Fold over a small portion of the lace edge and use a needle and thread to create a neat hem. This step is especially important if your lace is not finished or has raw edges.

Remember to cut the lace with precision and allow for any gathering or pleats. Cutting the lace to the correct size is essential to achieving the desired look for your wedding veil. Take your time, and don't be afraid to ask for help if needed. Happy crafting!

Attaching the lace to the veil

• Prepare the Veil and Lace: Before you begin, ensure that your veil is securely pinned or hung up, allowing you to work with it easily. If you are using lace by the yard, carefully cut it to the desired width.
• Pin the Lace: Take your lace and carefully pin it onto the veil, placing it where you want it to be attached. This step is crucial as it ensures that the lace is positioned correctly and securely before sewing.
• Sew the Lace: Using a hand sewing needle and matching thread, carefully sew the lace onto the veil. A running backstitch is recommended as it creates a secure and relatively invisible seam. Remember to sew by hand, especially if your lace is delicate, as machine sewing may damage it.
• Consider the Edges: When attaching the lace, pay attention to the edges of the veil. If you are using lace with a finished edge, ensure that it hangs over the edge of the veil slightly, covering any raw edges. This will create a neat and polished look.
• Secure the Lace: Once you have sewn the lace in place, double-check that it is secure and that the stitches are tight and even. If needed, go over the seams again to reinforce them and ensure that the lace lies flat and smooth against the veil.
• Add Embellishments: If desired, you can add beads or other embellishments to the lace. Use a beading needle and invisible thread for this step, as regular thread may be too thick and visible. Sew the beads individually, tying a square knot on the back of the fabric after each bead for security.
• Finish the Comb: If you are attaching the veil to a comb, carefully sew the veil to the comb, ensuring that the stitches are tight and secure. You can use clear fabric glue for this step if preferred, especially if you are using a plastic comb.

Adding lace trim

Step 1: Choose Your Lace

Select a lace that complements your wedding dress and suits your style. You can choose from a variety of options, such as lace appliques or lace by-the-yard, which you can cut to your desired width. Consider the amount of shine or glitter you want to include (or avoid) and play with colour and texture to create a unique look.

Step 2: Gather Your Materials

In addition to your chosen lace, you will need the following materials:

• Veil: Ensure you have your veil ready, preferably made from silk or nylon tulle.
• Nylon Micro-filament Thread: This type of thread is essential for sewing lace to your veil, as it is strong and invisible, creating a seamless finish.
• Sewing Supplies: Gather sharp scissors, straight pins, and a hand sewing needle. You may also need a sewing machine if you plan to attach the lace using a machine.
• Beads (optional): If you wish to add beads to your veil, choose beads that complement your lace and overall wedding theme. You will also need a beading needle for this step.

Step 3: Plan the Placement of Your Lace

Before you begin sewing, it is important to plan the placement of your lace. Hang your veil, either on a dress form or with the help of a friend, and pin the lace where you would like it to be. Consider the overall look you are aiming for and adjust the placement accordingly. Take photos to reference during the sewing process.

Step 4: Sew the Lace by Hand

Using a hand sewing needle and nylon thread, carefully sew the lace onto your veil. A running backstitch is recommended as it creates a secure yet flexible seam. Take your time with this step, as most lace is delicate and requires a gentle touch.

Step 5: Add Beads (Optional)

If you wish to add beads to your veil, this is the time to do so. Thread your needle with strong thread, such as nylon, and secure the beads one by one. 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 trim the excess thread close to the knot. Repeat this process until you achieve the desired amount of beading.

Step 6: Attach the Veil to a Comb (Optional)

If you plan to attach your veil to a comb, carefully sew the gathered portion of the veil to the comb using a needle and thread. You can also use clear fabric glue for this step, ensuring a secure hold.

Step 7: Enjoy Your Custom Veil!

With these steps, you can create a beautiful and unique wedding veil. Don't be afraid to experiment and add your personal touch to make your veil even more special.

Sewing on the veil comb

Step 1: Gather the necessary materials

You will need a veil comb, needle and thread, and your veil fabric. You can use a simple French comb, barrette, or any headpiece of your choice. Choose a thread colour that matches your veil fabric for a seamless look.

Step 2: Prepare the veil fabric

Before attaching the comb, you need to gather the veil fabric at the desired point. Decide whether you want the veil's side edges to come all the way up to the top or not. Gathering only the centre portion of the veil will give a less puffy look at the top, while gathering the entire width will create a fuller, puffier effect.

Step 3: Gather and secure the fabric

Once you've decided on the style, use a needle and strong thread to gather the fabric. Weave the thread in and out with small stitches and pull it tight so that the gathered portion is about 2 inches wide. Knot the thread securely. You can now hold the veil by the gathered area and give it a gentle shake to let the sides fall gracefully.

Step 4: Attach the comb

Place the comb on the gathered portion of the veil fabric. Using your needle and thread, sew the veil securely to the comb. Make sure to stitch through the comb's teeth and fabric for a firm attachment.

Step 5: Consider wearing a tiara

If you plan to wear a tiara and want the option to remove the veil during the reception while keeping the tiara on, sew the veil to a simple French comb. This way, you can easily detach the veil while still wearing the tiara.

Step 6: Finalise the veil

Your veil is now ready to wear! However, you can further decorate it by sewing a thin satin ribbon along the edges or adding sparkling beads or gemstones. You can also leave it as is for a simple and elegant look.

Making your own wedding veil is a fun and creative process that allows you to personalise your special day. Enjoy crafting your unique veil!

Frequently asked questions