How to Make a Tulle Tutu
Tutus are whimsical, fun, and perfect for dress-up, dance recitals, or simply adding a touch of magic to an outfit. Making your own tulle tutu is simple, cost-effective, and allows you to customize it according to your preferences. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make a tulle tutu.
Materials:
– Tulle (6-inch wide rolls)
– Elastic (½ or ¾ inch wide)
– Scissors
– Measuring tape
– Needle and thread or sewing machine (optional)
Step 1: Measure the waist and length
Begin by measuring the waist of the person who will wear the tutu. Add an additional inch for overlap and cut a piece of elastic accordingly. Next, measure the desired length of the tutu – this will be the length of your tulle strips. Double this length to account for folding the tulle in half while attaching it to the elastic.
Step 2: Sew or tie the elastic
If you’re confident in your sewing skills, sew the ends of your elastic together using a zig-zag stitch. Otherwise, tie the ends securely together in a double knot and trim any excess elastic.
Step 3: Cut the tulle
Based on your earlier measurements, begin cutting your tulle into strips (double your desired tutu length). The more strips you cut, the fuller your tutu will be.
Step 4: Attach the tulle to the elastic
Now it’s time to assemble your tutu. Begin by folding one strip of tulle in half, forming a loop at one end. Place this loop behind the elastic band so it hangs down evenly.
Next, bring both loose ends of the tulle over the top of the elastic and pull them through the loop you created earlier. Gently tighten your tulle, creating a knot. The tulle should now be securely attached to the elastic.
Step 5: Repeat and fluff
Continue attaching tulle strips to the elastic, staying consistent with your knots and spacing. Slide the knots close together for a fuller tutu, or space them farther apart for a looser one.
Once all the tulle strips are attached, fluff each layer and trim any uneven ends if necessary.
Your tulle tutu is now complete! Try it on, twirl around, and enjoy your handiwork.