You don't have to be a master seamstress or an avid DIY enthusiast to make your own wedding veil. A basic veil is actually a very simple project, and making it yourself can save you hundreds of dollars.
How to Make a Simple Bridal Veil
A tulle veil looks incredible with almost any style of wedding gown, and if you have a couple of hours and about $25, you can make it yourself. Before you start, you'll need to decide on the veil style and length. Short veils are especially easy. Longer options like cathedral-length veils are a bit more difficult to work with, but the basic process is the same. These instructions are for a fingertip-length veil, but you can adjust for longer or shorter designs.
Things You'll Need
- One and half yards of 54-inch-wide tulle fabric in your desired color
- Two yards of narrow satin ribbon in matching shade
- Plastic or metal hair comb
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Needle and thread in a color to match fabric
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
What to Do
- Measure from the top of the bride's head where the veil will attach to the tips of her fingertips. Cut the tulle fabric to this length. You'll have a rectangle of tulle.
- Fold the tulle in quarters so all four corners are stacked together. Carefully cut the corners to round them gradually, easing them into the straight sides. Unfold the tulle.
- Use the needle and thread to sew along one of the long sides of the tulle, starting where the rounded corner eases into the straight side. Use big stitches and don't worry too much about neatness.
- Pull the thread to gather the tulle fabric. Gather until the gathered edge is about the same size as the hair comb. Knot the thread to hold it securely.
- Wrap the comb in the ribbon to cover the plastic or metal and give it a pretty look. Use hot glue to secure the ribbon ends.
- With the needle and thread, sew the veil to the ribbon-covered comb. Tuck the raw gathered edge under as you work so it doesn't show. You may want to use a double length of thread to make sure it is secure.
Embellishment Ideas and Tips
You can give your veil additional style with these ideas:
- Add beads, sequins, or pearls to the comb.
- Sew lace along the bottom and sides of the veil.
- Use a sewing machine to create a finished edge in a contrasting thread color.
- Add beads to the tulle for extra sparkle.
- Add a second, shorter layer for a fuller veil.
- Instead of a comb, attach the veil to a tiara by wrapping the comb portion of the tiara in ribbon and sewing the tulle in place.
Wedding Veil Patterns to Buy
If you're planning a more elaborate design, using a bridal veil pattern can help make this process a lot easier. Most patterns cost less than $10. Try these options:
- McCall Pattern M4126: This patterns has instructions for making six different veils, perfect for any style of wedding.
- Butterick Pattern B4487: Pick from several embellishment options, like adding a bow or ribbon, for your veil.
- Vogue Pattern V8569: This pattern includes a headpiece, tiara, and bridal veils in four styles.
- Simplicity Design 9826: Get three veil options plus several accessories in this vintage pattern.
Enjoy Making Your Veil
Making a veil for your wedding day is one easy money saving wedding idea, and it's a great way to add a personal, memorable touch to your ensemble. Whether you're making your own dress and need a veil to go with it or simply want a simple, DIY veil to complement your gown, this is a project anyone can do.
