Start with tulle, a comb, and thread that matches your fabric

A veil is one of the most forgiving sewing projects because tulle and netting don't fray, so you don't need to finish the edges. You need tulle or bridal netting (the fabric itself), a veil comb (a small plastic or metal comb that attaches to your hair), thread, a needle or sewing machine, and scissors. The comb is the anchor—everything else hangs from it. Most veils are sewn by hand or machine directly onto the comb, which means you're not making a garment so much as attaching fabric to a small object.

Tulle comes in rolls at fabric stores and online, usually 54 to 108 inches wide. Bridal netting is stiffer and holds shape better; tulle is softer and drapes more loosely. For a first veil, tulle is easier to work with because it's forgiving if your stitches aren't perfect. Buy enough to reach from your head to wherever you want the veil to end—floor-length veils need 2 to 3 yards, shoulder-length need about 1.5 yards. You'll also need a veil comb, which costs $2 to $8 and comes in white, ivory, or silver.

Key Takeaways

  • Tulle and netting don't fray, so you only need to attach the fabric to the comb—no edge finishing required.
  • The veil comb is the structural anchor; sew the fabric directly to the comb teeth using a needle and thread or a sewing machine.
  • Measure from your head to your desired veil length, then cut tulle into a rectangle or gathered shape before attaching it to the comb.
  • Hand-sewing takes longer but gives you more control; machine-sewing is faster and creates a stronger seam that won't slip.
  • Test the veil on your head before finishing to make sure the comb sits securely and the fabric hangs the way you want.

Measure and cut the tulle to length

Measure from the crown of your head (where the comb will sit) down to where you want the veil to end. If you're making a shoulder-length veil, measure to your shoulder. For a floor-length veil, measure to the floor or slightly past it. Add 1 to 2 inches to that measurement—this extra length gives you fabric to wrap around the comb teeth without the veil ending exactly where you measured.

Cut the tulle into a rectangle. The width depends on how full you want the veil: a narrow, sleek veil is about 36 inches wide; a fuller, more dramatic veil is 54 to 72 inches wide. If your tulle roll is 54 inches wide, you can use the full width. Lay the tulle flat, measure your length and width with a ruler or measuring tape, and cut straight lines with sharp scissors. Tulle cuts cleanly and won't fray, so you don't need to worry about raw edges.

Gather the tulle if you want a fuller look

If you cut a wide piece of tulle and want it to gather at the comb rather than hang flat, you can add gathering stitches. Run a line of long, loose stitches (by hand or machine) along the top edge of the tulle—the edge that will attach to the comb. Use a long stitch length (about 1/4 inch) and don't backstitch at the ends. Leave long thread tails.

Gently pull both thread tails toward each other, bunching the tulle along the threads. Adjust the gathers until the gathered edge is about 3 to 4 inches wide—roughly the width of the comb. Tie off the thread tails so the gathers don't come loose. If you don't want gathering, skip this step and attach the tulle flat to the comb.

Attach the tulle to the comb by hand or machine

Position the comb so the teeth face down and the handle faces up. Lay the gathered (or flat) top edge of the tulle along the comb teeth. The tulle should sit on top of the teeth, not wrapped around them yet. If you're hand-sewing, thread a needle with thread that matches your tulle. Sew small, tight stitches through the tulle and around each comb tooth, working from one end of the comb to the other. Aim for stitches about 1/8 inch apart. This takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on comb size, but the result is find and won't slip.

If you're using a sewing machine, set it to a straight stitch with medium length (about 2.5 to 3 mm). Place the tulle under the presser foot with the comb teeth facing up, and sew a line along the base of the teeth. Go slowly and keep the tulle aligned so the needle catches both the fabric and the comb. Machine-sewing is faster and creates a stronger seam, but you need a steady hand to keep the comb from shifting. After sewing, trim any loose threads.

Wrap the tulle around the comb handle for a finished look

Once the tulle is sewn to the teeth, you can wrap the excess fabric around the comb handle to hide it and create a finished edge. Fold the tulle down and around the handle, then sew it in place with a few stitches on the back of the comb. This step is optional—many veils are left with the raw tulle visible at the comb—but wrapping gives a more polished appearance.

Alternatively, you can cover the comb handle with ribbon or fabric tape before you attach the tulle. Wrap the ribbon tightly around the handle, securing it with a few stitches or fabric glue. Then attach the tulle on top. This creates a clean, finished look and protects the comb from snagging hair.

Test the veil on your head and adjust if needed

Put the veil on and check how it sits. The comb should grip your hair firmly without sliding. If it slips, you may need a larger comb or one with deeper teeth. Make sure the tulle hangs the way you want—if it's bunching awkwardly or one side is longer than the other, you can trim it with scissors. Tulle cuts cleanly, so don't be afraid to adjust the length or shape.

If you want to add a second layer of tulle for more volume, sew another piece of tulle to the comb the same way. You can layer different lengths or densities of tulle to create depth. Some veils have a short layer (blusher) in front and a longer layer in back—sew both to the same comb, with the shorter piece on top.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a regular needle and thread, or do I need special supplies?

A regular needle and all-purpose thread work fine. Use thread that matches your tulle color so stitches don't show. If you're sewing by hand, a needle size 7 to 10 works well for tulle. If you're using a machine, a standard needle (size 70/10 or 80/12) is sufficient.

What's the difference between tulle and bridal netting?

Tulle is softer and drapes more naturally; bridal netting is stiffer and holds its shape better. Bridal netting is better if you want a veil that stands away from your head. Tulle is better if you want a veil that flows and moves. Both work—it's a matter of the look you prefer.

Do I have to gather the tulle, or can I attach it flat?

You don't have to gather it. A flat veil is simpler and faster to make. Gathering creates more volume and a fuller appearance, but it's an extra step. Try both ways on paper or scrap fabric first to see which style you like.

How do I keep the veil from slipping out of my hair?

Make sure the comb teeth are clean and dry before you put it in your hair. Tease or backcomb the section of hair where you'll place the comb so it grips better. If the veil still slips, you may need a larger comb with deeper teeth, or you can add a small bobby pin through the comb handle into your hair for extra security.

Can I wash a veil made from tulle?

Yes, but gently. Hand-wash in cool water with mild soap, then lay flat to dry. Don't wring or twist the tulle. The comb itself should be removed before washing. If the comb is plastic, you can wash it separately; if it's metal, wipe it with a damp cloth and dry it.