Hemming a big ball gown can be intimidating, but it's actually pretty easy if you take it one layer at a time!
Start by hemming the two fabric linings. Use any method. I like to use this type hem, but you could even serge the very bottom lining.
Next you need to hang the dress so that you have access to all sides. I use a hook in the ceiling with a ribbon. It looks like this:
Don't you love the glow-in-the-dark stars on the ceiling! A reminder that this was once a little boy's bedroom.
Clip all the layers you aren't working on out of the way using chip clips. Start with the innermost
netting layers and trim one at a time.
If you have a sharp pair of scissors you can hold the bottom of the netting and slide the scissors right through. Continue until all layers of the white netting are cut.
Now let down the top lining and make sure it's straight. At this point I usually have to spray the top layers of netting with static spray. If your dress has been in a plastic bag, it's probably got lots of static cling!
This is what I use: smelly, but effective.
The top layers of tulle all get cut at the same time. In order to cut them evenly, I make sure all the seams of tulle are lined up and then line them up with coordinating seams on the lining and pin together. You will usually have pins holding the dress and tulle together in the back and on both sides.
Now you can do your final cut. Make sure you leave the tulle a little longer than the lining. Good luck!!