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For an idea of what it takes to make a veil from silk
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Silk threads used in veiling are gossamer thin but when woven together they form a diamond pattern of net that drapes and falls beautifully. Should you decide on a veil made from silk, be aware of the delicate nature of the material and its limitations.  Glass beadwork cannot be supported on this type of veil unless it is heavily starched or combined with several layers and then attended to by your maid of honor or bridesmaids. Silk veiling will also go limp if exposed to a slight mist or sudden rain shower, so it's suitable for indoor ceremonies. It is very possible that an outdoor ceremony will increase the chances of your silk veil's demise in record time.  The solution? Use the most delicate Nylon Tulle for the sheer appearance of silk tulle, or an English Net.

ENGLISH COTTON NET

Antique Edwardian English cotton net veiling is often difficult to find, as it pre-dates most modern veils.  It's drape is similar to silk tulle but with more body. It is also slightly more opaque than silk.

Also known as English net, it is prone to water spotting and will tear easily when wet but it can be washed gently. Stronger than silk tulle but weaker than nylon, cotton net has a tendency to crease like nylon but unlike nylon, it can be pressed.  Historically, silk veils were very expensive for most turn of the century brides and for many, the cotton veil or "English Net" was the only affordable option.  English Net had beauty, but it became passé when successful silk cultivation produced beautiful silk veiling near the end of World War I.  For an Edwardian wedding appearance, English Net is the best.  Most veils are square cut and many are embellished with tambour floss.

NYLON NET

Can't find vintage? What about wearing a modern veil? Sure, nylon Illusion netting is easily found and comes in several sizes, the most popular widths being 72" to 108".  Being nylon, this net has a stiffer hand as it is a spun melt man-made thread.  All Man Made fiber is spun in three steps;  1) Dissolving the raw material to make a solution 2)  Forcing the solution through a spinneret to form a fiber 3)  Solidifying the fiber by coagulation, evaporation or cooling Nylon is less expensive and easier to produce but it has a tendency to have a grey color cast rather than a natural material.  Manufacturers have devised ways of dyeing the materials and generally offer shades of white and off-white. The three color choices commonly found are White, Diamond White, and Ivory. White illusion netting is perfect for the new, contemporary white gowns. Diamond White, which is a soft off-white, works well with vintage gowns, and Ivory illusion net has a deep yellow cast, which may be best for the very "yellowed" antique gowns.  Much of the ivory nylon tulle sold has a distinct yellow cast that does not look vintage, so it might be difficult to pair old and new without multiple selection.