TuTus for my Ballerina!
Scarlet started dance this year, so naturally I had to learn to make TuTu's. Then I learned how to make bows to match the tutu! Fun and exciting!
This is a simple knot tutu around elastic alternating black and orange.
I then learned that using ribbon (instead of elastic) would give it the extra style plus...they tend to look better because you do not have to deal with the elasticity. I found with elastic, because it stretched, it was difficult to
make sure the size was right and I used more Tule than I had to. With a ribbon you are able to measure the size and make it fit, and as they grow add or remove if you wanted to! So I prefer the ribbon. You might have some problem if the little girl wearing the tutu has no hips. In this case you could do a combination of ribbon and elastic, just sewing the elastic to the ribbon. This still allows you to make the exact size but gives you some stretchy ability to stay up. I used the Tule as the wrap around for my bows just tie it all together a little more!
Then I wanted to make a little bit fancier one. So I simply made the same knot tutu and added an a-line cut sparkle organza over the tutu. I lined the organza with the ribbon sewing the showing side to the skirt. I then used a fabric glue to wrap the ribbon under, and I used it for 2 reasons. 1st, I did not want to try to make the seam invisible due to the sheer material. 2nd, the glue gives the tutu a certain stiffness to keep it "poofy"!
I added a bow to the back with a hook and eye to keep the tutu closed. Because the ribbon I used is slippery I needed to secure it. Quick Tip: After sewing the hook and eye to the organza, reinforce the fabric with either a dab of glue or fray blocker. And of course the matching bow. I seared the edges of organza with fire...just be careful not to apply too much heat, it sears quick.
I will post some other outfits I have worked on later. I love my tutus right now and have a couple more to make, and then I will be making another outfit to match the vans I bought my daughter.
Have a blessed day!