How to Make a Tutu

Twirling, skipping, jumping, and frolicking are all more fun with a snazzy tutu. Make yourself, your loved ones, or even a pet one of these frilly tulle skirts.

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Up next in How to Make Halloween Costumes (26 videos)

Put together a great Halloween costume with the ideas in this Howcast video series.

You Will Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Non-rolling 3/4" elastic
  • Needle and thread
  • 75 yd. of 6" tulle
  • Sewing machine (optional)

Steps

  1. Step 1

    Measure the waist

    Measure the waist of the person receiving the tutu.

  2. Step 2

    Cut elastic

    Cut a piece of elastic 2 inches shorter than the person’s waist measurement.

  3. Step 3

    Sew the elastic into a circle

    Overlap the raw edges of the elastic and sew them together to form a circle.

  4. You can use a sewing machine to sew the elastic together. Use a zig-zag stitch to allow the elastic to stretch at the seam without breaking the stitches.

  5. Step 4

    Determine length and cut tulle

    Determine how long you would like the tutu to be. Cut the tulle into strips that are double the length.

  6. The number of tulle strips you will cut depends on the waist size of the person wearing the tutu. A good rule of thumb is one strip for every ½-inch of the waist measurement.

  7. Step 5

    Fold the strip in half and loop ends

    Fold a strip of tulle in half and place the looped end behind the elastic. Then pull the ends in front of the elastic through the loop and pull it tight.

  8. Step 6

    Repeat process

    Keep folding and looping until you have completely covered the elastic with tulle strips. Give the tutu to that special someone and enjoy their happy dance.

  9. French Impressionist Edgar Degas completed more than 600 works showcasing ballet dancers.

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