How to Display a Wedding Gown in Shadow Box

Displaying a wedding gown in a shadow box is a beautiful way to preserve and showcase your special dress. You can personalize it to your own style and tastes. Here's a simple guide to help you get started:

Materials Needed:

1. Shadow Box: Choose a sizeable shadow box that fits the wedding dress. It should have enough depth to accommodate the dress's layers and embellishments.

2. Acid-Free Tissue Paper or Archival-Quality Paper: This is used to wrap and protect the dress.

3. Mannequin Form: A small dress form or mannequin will help you drape the dress and create a more natural look.

4. Pins: Use straight pins or T-pins to secure the dress to the mannequin and the shadow box.

5. Scissors or Craft Knife: For cutting the tissue paper or archival-quality paper.

6. Ribbon, Lace, or Embellishments: These are optional for adding personal touches.

Step 1: Prepare the Shadow Box:

- Open the shadow box and remove the backing.

Step 2: Attach the Dress to Mannequin:

- Place the mannequin or dress form inside the shadow box.

- Gently lay the wedding dress over the mannequin, starting with the bodice and working your way down.

Step 3: Secure the Dress:

- Use pins to attach the dress to the mannequin and inside the shadow box.

- Pin it at strategic points to keep it in place. Be gentle not to damage the fabric.

Step 4: Wrap in Tissue Paper:

- Cut the tissue paper or archival-quality paper into large pieces.

- Wrap the dress in the tissue paper, taking care to cover it completely.

- Tuck the tissue paper around the edges of the shadow box to create a smooth, finished look.

Step 5: Add Embellishments (Optional):

- If desired, you can add ribbons, lace, or other embellishments to enhance the display.

- Attach these embellishments to the shadow box or the dress using pins.

Step 6: Close the Shadow Box:

- Replace the backing of the shadow box and secure it.

- Make sure the dress is neatly arranged and stays in place.

Step 7: Hang or Display:

- Choose a suitable location to hang or display the shadow box.

- You can hang it on a wall, place it on a shelf, or display it in a prominent place in your home.

Remember, this is a creative process, so feel free to personalize it however you like. You can add accessories, photos, or other mementos related to your wedding day to create a truly unique and sentimental display.