Creating Crystal Wedding Veils: A Guide To Veil Making

Wedding veils with crystals are a great way to add a touch of sparkle and glamour to your bridal look. Whether you're looking for a subtle hint of magic or an all-out dazzling statement, there are many ways to make a wedding veil with crystals. From gluing flat-backed crystals or rhinestones to the veil, to sewing on beads, pearls, or flat-backed crystals, the options are endless.

If you're feeling creative and want to save some money, you can even make your own crystal veil at home. This can be a fun and satisfying project, allowing you to add as much or as little bling as you like. When creating your own veil, it's important to consider the overall style of your wedding and dress, as well as the length and shape of the veil.

For those who don't want to craft their own, there are many options available to purchase, from Etsy to speciality bridal shops. Whatever your choice, a crystal wedding veil is sure to make you shine on your big day.

Choosing the right crystals

There are several options to consider when choosing the right crystals for your wedding veil. Firstly, you can opt for non-hotfix flatback crystals, also known as rhinestones. These multi-faceted crystals usually come with a flat foiled backing, and can be easily adhered to the veil using a small amount of adhesive. The backing of these crystals is typically a platinum or light silver-grey colour, which may be visible through the veil fabric, but this is usually not noticeable. Clear crystal non-hotfix crystals are the most popular choice for white wedding veils.

Alternatively, you can use hotfix crystals, which have a similar appearance to non-hotfix crystals but feature a heat-sensitive coating on the back. To apply these, you can use an iron on a medium setting or invest in a hotfix applicator tool. Hotfix crystals are slightly shallower in depth than non-hotfix crystals and have a larger flat surface area.

Another option is to sew the crystals onto the veil using clear nylon thread or thread that matches the colour of the veil. This method allows for greater security and precision in the placement of the crystals.

When selecting the size and spacing of your crystals, consider the overall style and length of your veil. Smaller crystals can be used for a more subtle sparkle, while larger crystals will create a bolder, more glamorous effect. For a delicate and understated look, consider spacing out the crystals farther apart. If you're aiming for a more extravagant and glittery appearance, you can place the crystals closer together or opt for a denser concentration of crystals along the edges or in specific patterns.

Additionally, you can incorporate different colours and coatings to add interest and dimension to your veil. Crystal AB flat backs, for example, have an iridescent coating that creates a rainbow effect, while crystal shimmer flat backs offer strong orange and blue tones. Moonlight flat backs provide a vintage feel with their slightly milky clear appearance.

Remember to consider the overall style and colour of your wedding dress when choosing your crystals. If your gown has intricate beading or embellishments, opt for subtler crystal accents to avoid clashing. Conversely, if your dress is simpler, a more heavily embellished crystal veil can add a stunning wow factor to your bridal look.

Lastly, when purchasing crystals, look for high-quality options like Swarovski crystals, which are known for their long-lasting glitter and shine.

Veil length and style

Veil Length:

• Fingertip-length veil: This is a classic and versatile option that falls around the bride's fingertips when her arms are relaxed at her sides. It is a popular choice as it is not too long or too short and can be easily paired with various wedding dress styles.
• Elbow-length veil: This veil extends to the bride's elbows, usually ending between the waist and the hips. It is a good choice for brides who want a little more coverage without the veil taking away from the details of the dress.
• Waist-length veil: A waist-length veil falls to the bride's natural waistline, highlighting the waist and drawing attention to the dress. This length is often chosen for more formal weddings and can be paired with a variety of hairstyles.
• Floor-length veil: Also known as a ballet veil, this option grazes the floor and creates a dramatic effect without being too overwhelming. It is often chosen for formal or black-tie weddings and can be paired with a variety of dress styles.
• Chapel-length veil: Extending beyond the floor, this veil style is ideal for formal weddings and adds a touch of drama to the bridal look. It is often chosen for traditional or religious ceremonies and can be paired with a train on the wedding dress.
• Cathedral-length veil: The longest veil option, a cathedral-length veil, extends several feet beyond the floor and creates a stunning, fairy-tale-like effect. It is perfect for grand entrances and is often chosen for formal weddings in large venues.

Veil Style:

• Scattered crystals: One popular style for crystal veils is to scatter crystals throughout the veil, creating a subtle sparkle effect. The crystals can be spaced evenly or randomly, depending on the desired look.
• Crystal edges: Another option is to embellish the edges of the veil with crystals, creating a defined border. This style can add a touch of glamour to the veil without overwhelming the overall look.
• Crystal patterns: For a more unique and intricate design, crystals can be arranged in patterns or motifs on the veil. This could include creating shapes, words, or following the lines of an existing pattern on the veil.
• Crystal density: The density of crystals on the veil can vary depending on the desired effect. A veil with sparsely placed crystals will have a more subtle sparkle, while a heavily crystallized veil will have a bold and glamorous look.
• Crystal size: The size of the crystals can also vary, from small rhinestones to larger gems. Using a combination of crystal sizes can create a dynamic and interesting design.
• Crystal colour: Clear crystals are the most popular choice for wedding veils, but coloured crystals can also be used to incorporate the wedding colour palette or add a unique touch. AB (iridescent) and shimmer coatings are also available for crystals, adding a rainbow of colours or strong orange and blue tones.

Attaching crystals to the veil

There are several methods you can use to attach crystals to a wedding veil. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Method 1: Using Non-Hotfix Flatback Crystals

• Purchase non-hotfix flatback crystals, also known as rhinestones. These crystals have a multi-faceted design and usually come with a flat foiled backing.
• Apply a tiny dot of adhesive to the desired location on the veil.
• Press the crystal onto the adhesive. If you are applying a large number of crystals, consider using a cheap wax applicator tool to speed up the process.
• Allow the adhesive to dry completely before handling the veil.

Method 2: Using Hotfix Flatback Crystals

• Acquire hotfix flatback crystals, which have a heat-sensitive coating on the back.
• Place the crystals on the veil where you want them attached.
• Use an iron on a medium heat setting with the steam turned off to heat the glue on the back of the crystals. Alternatively, invest in a hotfix applicator tool, which looks like a soldering iron with a long, thin plastic wand and different-sized tips.
• Touch the faceted face of the crystal with the hotfix applicator to pick it up, then press it onto the veil.
• Allow the crystals to cool and the glue to set.

Method 3: Sewing on Crystals

• Purchase sew-on flatback crystals, which have a hole through the centre or tiny holes on either side of the faceted face.
• Use clear nylon thread or thread that matches the colour of the veil.
• Stitch the crystals onto the veil using a needle.
• Tie off the thread securely when finished.

General Tips for Attaching Crystals:

• Consider the overall style of your wedding and choose a veil length and crystal placement that complements it. For example, a cathedral-length veil with scattered crystals is perfect for a grand, fairytale-like ceremony.
• Ensure the crystals are securely attached to the veil, especially if using glue. Allow adequate drying or cooling time before handling the veil.
• Practice crystal placement on a spare piece of tulle or fabric before attaching crystals to the veil to ensure an even and aesthetically pleasing distribution.
• When gluing crystals, lay something underneath the veil to protect your workspace, as the glue may stick to the surface.

Veil assembly

Now that you have all the materials and have cut your veil to the desired length, it's time to assemble it! This part of the process can be a little tedious but seeing the finished product come together is extremely rewarding. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to assemble your DIY wedding veil:

• Mark the tulle: Using a marker, make small dots every half inch across the width of the tulle. This will be the guide for gathering the edge of the veil.
• Thread your needle: Go through the dots with your threaded needle, going up one and down the other to gather the edge. You can use a simple running stitch or any other stitch you're comfortable with. Make sure to knot the ends of the thread securely.
• Measure and tie off: Measure the length of your comb and, using this length, tie off your thread. This will ensure that the veil is securely attached to the comb.
• Gather the tulle: Scrunch the tulle along the gathered edge to create soft, even gathers. This will give your veil a beautiful, elegant look.
• Position the comb: Place the front side of the comb against the back side of the veil. This way, the veil will gracefully fall over the comb when placed in your hair.
• Secure the veil to the comb: Attach the sides of the veil to the ends of the comb. You can use small clothespins or any other tools you have on hand to hold it in place temporarily.
• Stitch the comb in place: Using your needle and thread, carefully whip stitch the veil and comb together. Go through the teeth of the comb to ensure a secure hold. Leave about a half-inch excess fabric for easier handling, and trim it off later if needed.
• Trim and finish: Once you've secured the veil to the comb, trim off any loose threads or excess fabric. Give your veil a final once-over to ensure all the rhinestones are securely attached and there are no loose ends.

And there you have it! Your very own DIY wedding veil with crystals. This project is a fun and inexpensive way to add a personal touch to your wedding ensemble. Enjoy your handcrafted veil on your special day and treasure it for a lifetime!

Sewing the comb

Step 1: Mark the Tulle

First, mark every half inch across the width of the tulle with a marker. Don't worry about making it perfect, as this will not be visible at the end.

Step 2: Thread the Needle

Next, thread a needle and go through the dots, going up one and down the other to gather the edge. You can use clear nylon thread or cotton thread that matches the colour of the veil.

Step 3: Gather the Tulle

Pull the thread to gently gather the edge of the tulle. Measure the length of your comb and tie off the thread. Scrunch the fabric until the gathers look nice and even.

Step 4: Position the Comb

Place the front side of the comb against the back side of the veil. This way, the veil will cover the comb when placed in your hair.

Step 5: Secure the Veil to the Comb

Secure the sides of the veil to the ends of the comb. You can use clothespins or small hair clips for this step.

Step 6: Stitch the Comb to the Veil

Finally, use a whip stitch to sew the comb to the veil. Go through the teeth of the comb, stitching the two pieces together. Leave about a half-inch of excess fabric for easier handling, and trim off any loose threads.

And that's it! You now have a beautifully sewn comb on your wedding veil.

Frequently asked questions