How to Make a Tutu – Sewing Machines Los Angeles

Making a basic tutu can be fun and easy! Even your child can help. Follow steps below to make a basic tutu. Minimal sewing involved with needle and thread for waistband construction. No sewing involved in the actual tulle portion on making a tutu.

Material Needed:

Tulle From The Bolt (fabric stores sell tulle by the yard from a bolt, which is usually 54″ wide) or 6″ by 25 yard roll of tulle

If using tulle from the bolt, you will need to purchase at least 5-6 yard of tulle for a baby/toddler size. Ages 4 and up will need at least 8-10 yards of tulle.

If using tulle from the roll, purchase 6″ by 25-yard rolls of tulle. You will need 2-3 rolls for a baby/toddler size and 3-4 rolls for ages 4 and up. I personally love using tulle ribbon from a roll/spool. It’s normally used for wedding decorations and gift-wrap. It’s easier to work with and quicker to cut.

Fabric Scissors

1/2″-3/4″ Width Roll of Non Roll Elastic (Amount determined by waist size) or elastic headband for waist

Needle and Thread

Step 1:

Measure child’s waist and cut elastic 2″ smaller than measurement to allow for stretch. Sew both ends of elastic together by hand or with sewing machine.

Step 2:

You will need 4-6 yards of tulle for baby/toddler tutu if cutting from the bolt. Cut into 6″ strips. Purchase 6″ by 25 yard rolls to make it easier for you. The spool is already 6″ wide, so all you have to do is cut down the length.

Let’s say you want the tutu to be 14″ long. Double that length to 28″ and cut each strip to 28″ long. You determine length.

If using tulle from the bolt, the best way to cut strips is to leave the tulle folded as it came from the store and cut it down to 6″strips so you’re cutting though multiple layers. Saves you time. Or purchase 6″ by 25 yard spools to bypass cutting the tulle into strips. You will need between 1-3 rolls. Average toddler tutu will use between 1.5 to 2.5 rolls.

Some strips might not come out completely even, but it really is okay once all strips are tied on. Any mistakes can be hidden.

Step 3:

Fold your strip in half and bring it behind the elastic waistband to form a loop.

Step 4:

Bring the ends of the tulle strip through the loop. Pull down to tighten. Make sure not to pull it too tight.

Step 5:

Continue tying slipknots or regular knots around the entire waistband. You will probably use between 40-60 strips of tulle for a baby/toddler tutu. A good rule of thumb is to squeeze in at least 3 knots per inch of your waistband measurement.

And there you have a finished tutu!