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How to Make a Tutu *Easy No-Sew Tutu DIY Tutorial*

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Learn how to make a tutu! This is a simple DIY on how to make a no-sew tutu skirt that works for both babies and adults! Use my step-by-step (and super easy) no-sew tutu tutorial to make one or two (or ten!) of your very own.

A blue and pink tulle tutu with pink flowers on the front made by hand with a no-sew method.
This tutu looks complicated, but it was so easy to make! My no-sew tutu skirt is a winner for making DIY tulle tutus for dancers of any age.

These no-sew DIY tutus are perfect for dress-up time, a birthday party favor or theme, or even costumes for dance recitals. I see them on 5k and fun run runners all the time – so cute and easy! People all over the world are getting their tulle on!

The tutus you can make from these DIY instructions are very full and beautiful – great for quick Halloween costumes, too (I won’t judge).

As a professional crafter, I have made my fair share of tutus. And as a craft site, I am asked a lot about how to make a tutu, so I brought over some information from my tulle site to share with y’all!

Tutus are super easy and fun to make. You can buy nearly any type of tulle and create tutus for all of your costumes! No need to buy a tutu when it’s so easy to make one.

Now while this type of tutu is “no sew” keep in mind the elastic needs a small stitch to hold around the waist. Other than that, it’s so super easy to make a tutu, that even my 10-year-old can do it.

How Much Tulle for a Tutu?

I get 6-inch tulle if I’m making a single tutu. It’s easier to deal with because I don’t have to cut it to width. If you’re making several tutus, buy tulle by the bolt to save money. You’ll need about 20 yards of tulle to make a nice full tutu.

How to Make a No-Sew Tutu

I’ve broken down the process to make this tutu into simple steps.  This way you can do the whole thing in one sitting or a bit at a time. Scroll to the bottom for a free no-sew tutu tutorial guide that you can print.

SUPPLIES YOU’LL NEED: 

  • Tulle Fabric – I love to use 6-inch tulle, rather than big bolts when making just one tutu.  This way I only have to cut the tulle to length, not width too!  If you’re making for a crowd I suggest buying by the bolt to save some money.  If you go that route, you generally have to cut the length and width. You’ll need about 20 yards of tulle to create a full tutu.
  • Elastic – On elastic width, that’s preference. I find with older girls, the 1-inch width is a good size, but for the babies, you may want something less wide like a 3/4-inch elastic. They cost about $1.20 at Walmart and are in the fabric and crafting section. For an adult tutu, you can get wider elastic, understanding that if you go too wide it will fold over when you add your tulle. I would recommend between 1-1.5 inches wide.
  • Scissors or rotary cutter and mat
  • Needle and thread or sewing machine
  • Ribbon or bow
  • Measuring Tape

Tulle TIP: Bolts can be expensive at the craft or fabric store, so I highly recommend you purchase a bolt (or two or three, to mix colors) to make this craft. In the height of my tutu hairbow holder days, I only bought online.  Make sure you have your tulle ready for this craft because it takes a LOT. Buying it by the bolt is the smartest thing you can do.

It’s pretty inexpensive on Amazon and often with free shipping for less than half what you can get at craft or fabric stores!

Ever Shine Tulle Bolt, 54Ever Shine Tulle Bolt, 54Craft and Party, 54Craft and Party, 54Ever Shine Tulle Bolt, 54Ever Shine Tulle Bolt, 54Tulle Bolt, Apple Green, 54Tulle Bolt, Apple Green, 54

How To Make a Tutu Skirt

Let’s get started on your very own DIY tutu!

The first thing you need to begin making a tutu is to measure the waist the tutu will be going on.

No matter whether this is for a baby or an adult, the process is the same. Once you have a waist measurement line, subtract 2-3 inches from the measurement and cut your elastic band.

Your elastic will get stretched out while adding your tulle so if you don’t subtract those inches, your tutu will be too big. Making the band slightly smaller than the waist will make sure it stays put – no one wants a droopy tutu!

Tutu TIP: Instead of an elastic waistband, you can use a big satin ribbon and then just tie in a bow. This makes it a true no-sew tutu. This is a better design for ones you plan to sell, but they’re less flexible and a little more droopy than elastic ones.

Elastic is a lot snugger if you want it to stay on.

Up close view of an elastic waistband with pink and blue tulle tied around it to make a no-sew tutu skirt.
As you tie the tulle onto the elastic to make the tutu skirt, the elastic will stretch a bit. By subtracting a few inches from the final measurement you need you’re ensuring that the tutu skirt will fit when it’s done.

Now that you have your waist measurement line set, sew your two ends together to make a circle.

I like to do this by hand, as it’s hard on the sewing machine to run the thick pieces through, but you can do it either way. Set your circle of elastic to the side.

Now it’s time to get your tulle ready! Pre-cut your tulle, doubling the length from what you want the finished length to be.

  • For example, if you want a 12-inch long tutu, you will need to measure a 24-inch piece of tulle, as it will be doubled over. If you want a skirt that is approximately 20 inches long, your tulle will need to measure 40 inches long.
  • I like to cut all the tulle at once so I am ready to put together the entire skirt in one go.  This prep for your tulle is very important and will allow you to continue moving quickly while creating your no-sew tutu. But I do all the trimming of the ends of the skirt at the end so don’t worry so much about measuring it perfectly

Tip: Tulle comes in bolts and is already folded. Do not unfold the tulle from the bolt. Simply measure the length and cut, leaving your tulle doubled up. You can see an example of how to fold tulle for a skirt OR a tutu hairbow holder here on my video.

This video was made for a How to make a tutu hairbow holder article, but the concept for folding is exactly the same.

Add your elastic waist to a pitcher, the back of a chair, or even the legs of an upturned stool. (See demonstration below).

This allows you to continue working the tulle around the elastic or satin ribbon, hands-free.

How to make a Tutu DIY Tutorial Instructions in pictures showing the process from measuring the elastic waist to tying tulle in knots.
As you can see, the process to make a DIY tulle tutu skirt is really easy once you have your supplies prepped. I use something to keep my elastic in place so that I can knot the tulle on much more easily.

Create a loop at the center of each cut piece to set up a slip knot with your tulle and slip under the elastic band.

Tighten the knot of the tulle gently – you want the knot snug but not so tight it doubles over the elastic band.

Pink tulle held in a loop to being the slip knot for a tulle tutu skirt.
Step 1 for a slip knot is to make a loop in the middle of the strip of tulle.
Tulle loop being pulled through the prepared elastic waistband to begin tying it on in a slip knot.
Step 2 for a slip knot is to pull the loop of tulle up through the elastic waistband of the tutu skirt.
Finish a slipknot of tulle on a DIY tutu skirt by looping the tulle through the big loop that's tucked under the waistband.
Step 3 is to loop the loose ends of the tulle through the loop so that the tulle is knotted around the waistband. It’s quick to do, and makes it possible to create all sorts of color variations on your tulle tutu skirt.

Continue around the elastic waist, sliding your tulle pieces close to each other until your elastic is full.

TIP: Make sure you scrunch your tulle close together to ensure a fuller tutu!

A piece of elastic serves as the waistband for a tulle tutu skirt with big strips of tulle looped on it for fullness.
The more strips of tulle you fit on the waistband the fuller the tutu skirt will be. It’s so fun to make all different color patterns with the tulle strips for a unique tutu every time!
A no-sew tutu skirt looped on the back of a blue wooden chair to show how the waistband is looped with tulle strips to make the tutu skirt.
This tulle tutu skirt does need a few stitches to secure the ends of the elastic waistband together. If you want it to be truly no-sew, use ribbon instead and leave long enough tails to tie them on.

How To Make a Tutu for Adults

You can use this tutorial to make a tutu for adults. It’s so cute for baby outfits, little ballerinas, runners, and adult costumes too. You’ll simply use longer strips of tulle to ensure that the skirt is as long as you need to fit an adult.

How to Finish a DIY Tulle Tutu Skirt

Where you did the sewing of the elastic, it will be a little hard to knot the tulle and close the last few pieces over the top. I always put an embellishment in that area to cover up anything that doesn’t look perfect.

A little ribbon bow or flower works perfect here, as you can see on my tutu! Embellishments are a cute addition to a tutu made with satin ribbon, too!

A peach tutu embellished with a matching satin ribbon bow to cover the waistband where the elastic was sewn together.
I put a beautiful satin bow right over the spot where I sewed the elastic together on my DIY tutu because it’s a little lumpy. You can use silk flowers, bows, or pretty much anything you like!

Free DIY Tutu Guide

Download the free 3-page tutu tutorial guide so you can keep the instructions with you while you’re not on a computer! Just click the image below for an instant download!

Download link graphic for the DIY tulle tutu skirt tutorial.
If you want to keep the directions on-hand while you work, you can print them out here so they’ll be handy when you’re ready to get to work!

Fun Tutu Color and Theme Ideas

  • Red Tulle with Black Puff Balls glued on Make a LadyBug
  • Orange, Purple, and Black tulle for a witch
  • Yellow, Orange, and White for Candy Corn
  • Hot Pink and Lime Green for Strawberry Shortcake
  • White and Light Pink for a “50’s” Look
  • Purple and Light green for a Fairy
  • Yellow and Black for a Bumble Bee

Other Fun Tutu & Tulle Crafts

I hope that helps you when you make your new tutu for your little one! Or yourself. They’re fun for everyone!

A toddler girl wearing a yellow and pink DIY tulle tutu skirt.
This adorable DIY tulle tutu skirt was perfect for a summertime party with flowers and lemonade!
A toddler girl in a fluffy DIY no-sew tulle tutu skirt that's purple with a matching purple headband.
We made a purple DIY tulle tutu with flowers fixed into the skirt and a matching flower headband. Such cute pictures!
Photos showing how to slip knot tulle onto an elastic waistband step-by-step to make a tulle no-sew tutu skirt with flower embellishments.
The finished tulle tutu skirt looks like it was complicated to make. Nobody would guess it’s so easy!
DIY tutu skirt guide download graphic
Get your printable tulle tutu skirt directions by clicking this picture!


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Comments

  1. Kay says

    When will you have the instructions for the fairy tutu? I have to make a mardi gras outfit and wanted to the fairy outfit.Thanks

  2. Ali says

    Hi! I’m making a tutu for my sweet sixteen this upcoming saturday (its gonna be neon tool BC I’m having a black light glow party, just thought I’d share lol) and I’m more of a fan of the short fluffy tutus that don’t hang and look “perky” for sa . Similar to the pink and green one you made. Is that style done by squishing the tool together along the elastic and making the peices short? Any info would be great thanks!

  3. Ashley says

    How do you typically attach the bow at the end? Glue gun? How do you adhere the embellishments at the end? Trying to make my daughters 1st birthday tutu!

  4. Melissa says

    Hi Trisha,

    I really enjoyed making a tutu today using your instructions. The one I made was for a teenager, your post really helped me with the measurements.

    Thanks again!
    Melissa

  5. Trisha says

    Hello,
    I had a question…I know you mentioned just using the 6′ tulle..So, if you use a bigger thing of tulle, like on a bolt do you just cute it, say 6″ x 24″? Thank you!

  6. Crystal says

    Thank you for the instruction. I am having a hard time finding the crochet headband though. My girls have cheerleading competition coming up and I’m doing the most by making the cutest black and red tutu for myself and the girls as a fun project we can do together also.

  7. Meggan says

    How would you add pom poms or glitter to the tutu when done, and also howb ould you make a match headband for a newborn? Do you have a tutorial for one anywhere? Thank you.

  8. Andrea Myers says

    First of all, THANK YOU so much for this post! I was ready to buy a $40 Ariel inspired tutu online for my daughter to wear to Disney next month and with your help, I’m ready to make that tutu myself for about $10! I’m so excited! My question is this: I bought satin ribbon to use instead of the crochet headbands for the waist. I’ve measured the ribbon on my daughter and was wondering if I need to decrease the size by 2-3 inches as the instructions state for the elastic? The ribbon is not stretchy so I’m thinking not but just wanted to check. I’m planning on leaving extra ribbon hanging and then hot gluing a jeweled flower in the center.

    Thank you again…great TUTorial!

  9. Darlene Lewis says

    This would be a great tutorial that I can share with my daughter and her friends at her slumber party next weekend! It’s interesting that tutus have become a popular fashion trend among young girls and they’re not just for ballet anymore. They will be so happy to learnhow to make a tutu that they can show off at school!

  10. Robin Wilson says

    If I could, I would {{{hug}}} you! My great-niece has wanted a tutu to dress up in so bad. But we simply cannot afford one! One that would last anyway. This is so easy and I thank you so much!

  12. Sarah says

    Hi! This looks really amazing thanks so much!! I love the look of that light pink tutu! But was just wondering, when it’s on someone, does it just flop down??? Did the hoop actually work??? I’m scared that when I make it I won’t be able to get it to be a pancake tutu, one that goes out straight, or even straightish. I do ballet and am in need of a tutu, but would SO like to make my own without having to spend millions!!
    Thanks for help and also thanks so much for sharing this wow!

  13. Heather says

    I have made 2 tutus. The first one was great. The second one has bunched and stuck together so mad its just a huge mess. What did I do wrong and how do I keep it from doing that?
    I used hobby lobby tulle,
    the first one is black and sparkly purple with spots, no bunching problems
    second one is yellow and pink, plain, TONS of bunching and sticking problems

    • Helen says

      Use a spay with a water and fabric softener, spray a light mist as you finger it out. Leave to dry in bathroom- whenever you take a hot shower the steam should also help. 2) blow dry on low setting and finger comb.

  14. Zoe says

    I made one for my daughter and i measured her waist and got like 17 and for some dumb reason i only did it down to 16 and i ended up with one that was 3 inches bigger…. lol so IT DOES GET BIGGER i was just wondering can you pull the tulle to tight while i was doing it it like folded the elastic in half. cause how tight i was doing it…. and i just wanted to be sure that i wasn’t pulling it to tight thanks a million.

    • Trisha says

      The tighter you do it, the more it stretches the elastic definitely. You can always cut the seam and take some of your tulle off and then resew and put some more over the seam again. I have had to do that before.

  15. dawn says

    trying to figure out how to make the full layered tutu but all the links you have from sweetand sassy dont work. can you help me

  16. Doris says

    Just finished my first tutu per your instructions it turned out perfect. What length of tulle do you recommend for a 3 month old I was thinking like 18 inches?

    • Trisha says

      I think 18 inches might be a tad long, maybe not folded in half, but if you do it as 18 inch allt he way around it might be more like a long skirt! What i would do is make it longer than you think, so start at 18 inches if you want and then once its done you can trim to size once you see it on her.

  18. DesiraeF says

    Hi halloween is around the corner…and one of my friends and i wanted to do th whole 80s theme and wondered about how much tull we might need…and were to find all the stuff? Michael’s?

  19. DesiraeF says

    I have a question halloween is right around the corner and im thinking of doing the whole 80s theme… and want to know about how much tull do you think i might need

  20. Michelle says

    These instructions were perfect! I just finished a white and silver one for my oldest daughter’s halloween costume this year… the baby is so obsessed with it, looks like I’m making another one. Thank you!!!!

  21. Sherrie says

    Thank you for these tutu instructions, you may have saved my project. I was making a tutu
    tote for halloween and bough 1 yd of tulle, not thinking, it is not enough (duh!) but if I cut the tulle
    into 6 in wide and the length I need, I may have enough for the tote! Thank you so much!

  22. rebecca says

    Question … when you put the elastic around something to start putting the tulle on do you stretch the elastic so that it is taunt?

    Thank you

  23. Grandma Linda says

    I have Twin grand daughter coming soon and i want to make some for them and my 1 yrs old granddaughter and also 4 year old granddaughter i dont know about the 11 yrs old would wear it or not but on the infants how much tulle would i need since they wil be so little i dont want to over do it. Thanks for helping to know how i hope this works out, lol thanks

    • rebecca says

      I made a tutu today for my soon to be 1yr old. I bought the 6″ x 25 yd rolls and cut 20 in strips. When I put the tulle on the elastic I doubled up and used 2 strips for each one so that it was “thicker” and a little fluffier – the same effect that Trisha uses by getting the 60 inch and leaving it folded.

  24. April says

    Thank you for the directions. When you say, 20 yds of tulle in each one, is that 6 in, or 54 in wide fabric you are starting with?

      • Brittani says

        What is the width of the tulle pieces for the tutu? I know you said 24in long, but I’m not sure how wide to make the pieces. I’m not very crafty (i’m trying to get into crafts for my daughter) so i’m a first time DIYer. I apologize if this is a dumb question, but like I said, i’m a beginner… 🙂 Thanks

        • Trisha says

          I use bolt pieces and leave them folded so its thicker. Bolts are what you buy from the store. I believe they are about 60inch?

    • Haley says

      how much did it cost you to make this tutu? I want to make one for my daughter’s 1 st birthday. Thank you!

      • rebecca says

        I used the 6″ x 25yd rolls. I used one roll of pink ($2.99) and one roll of shiny white ($4.99). I bought them at JoAnn fabric – would have been less if I would have remembered my 50% of/ item coupon. I also bought the ribbon for the bow +/- $2.00. If you use coupons you could definitely make one for about $5.00.

  26. lisha says

    i love making tutus, today im making me one for school, lol thsnks for the instructions, n etc… it means a lot… XOXO

  27. Jc says

    Beautiful job!! I was just wondering approximately how many pieces of tulle were cut for your tutu. Thx.

  28. Amber says

    I Love this! I can’t wait to make them for my 2 girls! How wide do you cut your strips? And I’m new to Tulle so what is “the big Tulle on the bolts”?

      • Amber says

        Love this!! Can’t wait to make them for my 2 girls! How wide do you cut your strips?

      • Christina says

        I am about to order a roll of 6″ x 25 yards…Is that what you used? It’s so much cheaper than buying it off the bolt by the yard, so I want to make sure it’s correct!

        • Trisha says

          i buy bolts..i believe they are 60 inches across..so while what you are doing may work, it wont be as thick. I recommend getting a 40% off coupon from hobby lobby and using that.

  30. Constance says

    I just finished making my first tutu using your instructions. It turned out super cute! I have 5 altogether that I will be making for my soon-to-be two year old. She is having a Tinkerbell themed birthday party. I wanted to surprise a friend, by making her 3 month old, a tutu. Does anyone know what size waist for a 3 month old?

  31. Jamie says

    I just made a tutu and it turned out amazing!! So simple to make. My daughter is 3 weeks and is having her newborn pictures taken in a couples days and I have 3 of them for her to wear!

  32. heather says

    I have a question. It says to put a bow where you “sewed”. What sewing? Is there a need to sew?

      • Bev beach says

        Another idea that I do is instead of sewing the band together I put the hook and eye thing on each side.then sew a bow on one part.easy to take on and off and too small for the child to maneuver it off the hook.my daughter loves playing dress up and tutus are her favorite!Plus they are just too freakin cute

  33. Diane says

    Oh my gosh! I’ve been searching frantically for a tutu/tulle skirt for a tutu/top hats party. Everything is way out of my budget ($150 my butt!), and most things aren’t even guaranteed to get here on time. This simple tutorial just saved my butt, and satisfies my creative need. Thank you so much!

    • DancerChick says

      You were looking at the low end of REAL tutus that professional Pointe dancers wear. Obviously not what you needed.

  34. Veronica says

    Love it! We are working on creating the Cyndi Lauper look for the elders at the home for our halftime show of the 2nd Annual Wheel Chair Super Bowl in February. They will be performing “Girls Just Want To Have Fun!”. The instructions are so simple and we are gonna start putting it together in the next few days.

  35. Amy Cliff says

    I am if someone could please help me I made a tutu for my daughter and the strands off tulle keep coming loose. I have to tighten them repeatedly through the day as she is wearing it. Is there a better way to tie the tulle or stitch it? Please someone help me!!!!!

  36. laurie says

    i am on the board of an organization called Fairy Godmother Inc. we provide prom gowns for girls with finanical hardships. every year we hold prom fair where girls can get gowns for $10 …jewelry, makeup and purses and more…they’ll spend no more $20 and get every thing they need for prom…
    anyway…
    This year i decided to get a little more in the spirit and im making myself a white tutu. sure i might be 28 but I love my organization…and cmon what girl doesnt love a tutu!

    thanks for the tutorial! i cant wait to make it!!!

  37. Lesa says

    Wow.. this is so awesome! my best friend is having twins and I really wanted to make her game day tutus for her girls when they are older.. but I wasn’t sure if i’d get them in time for her baby shower. I saw this and not only does it save me money but It’s super simple to follow!

  38. andrea says

    Great tutorial. I have made a few and they look great; however, the ones I see on Etsy almost look as if they have different lengths of tulle and as if they are starch (to stick straight out)?? Do you try to keep you elastic straight, so you maintain the 1 inch waistband? Because it looks like you allow it to crimp….which is great because I have been pulling my hair out tring to keep the elastic straight!!

  39. Christina says

    I just made a Valentine tutu for my 1 year old with your directions! I cannot wait to see her in it! Thanks!

  40. jessicah says

    I made two. I used a roll of paper towel and pinned it to it while I worked on tying the tulle on, it worked great for me!

  41. christie says

    I made one for my daughter but when she sat with it on it all wrinkled up into a mess. Did I use the wrong kind of tiller?

    • Brittany says

      Tutus are made with delicate materials, such as tulle, so they tend to squish/wrinkle if sat on or placed in box, etc…
      Here are a few tips to straighten out your tutu:

      1- Lightly spray with starch, then run your fingers through the tutu until the tulle straightens out.
      2- Run a hot, steamy shower or bath and hang your tutu in the bathroom for 10-15 minutes then lightly run your fingers through the tutu until the tulle straightens out.
      3- Use a steamer while you run your fingers through the tutu until the tulle straightens out.

  42. Tara says

    Thanks for these simple directions- you saved my Halloween dreams of making a costume instead of buying one! They came out great!!!

  43. maggie says

    I just made tutus for my girls using your directions ~ I can’t wait for them to wear them in our Christmas pictures! Thank you~

  44. Marie says

    Just made the tutu’s tonight following your instructions! They look so cute! Can’t wait to make some more! Directions were clear and easy to follow…Thank You!

  45. Andrea says

    I would like to know how do u get the tutu from bunching up. I have made a tutu but the strands stick together

  46. Jenn says

    Hi! LOVE the tutorial. You mentioned using the 6″ wide tulle, but I don’t like the way that looks. I know each piece is about 22″ long, but how wide do you cut your pieces?

  47. ayah says

    That’s really a wonderful tutorial! Thanks Trisha. I love those cute tutus that I see worn by little girls, they’re so cute. Learning how to do it, I would definitely make a lot, in different colors for my niece 🙂 Love it! I can’t wait to start on my first tutu project.

  49. Charli says

    I love the instructions, I went for the creme de la creme of tulle (glitter tulle and shiny tulle) so it cost my a pretty penny. Making two for my daughter,it’s still cheaper then buying it, and I’m pregnant with twins and bored out of my mind so it keeps me busy without being very physical.

  50. Jack o says

    Awesome DIY tutu instructions. My daughter is nuts for strawberry shortcake, so I think I’ll try to make that one for Halloween. (I’ll let you know how it turns out!). Thanks!

  51. Renate says

    Thank you for the help in making tutu.. I am making some for a friend but, how do you fluff them when they look flat??
    Thanks for your help!

  52. Kate says

    Have spent the better part of today making tutus for my 2 dogs 😀 thank you for this tutorial, you made it so much easier as I was panicking over having to sew!!!

  54. Maria says

    I loved this tutorial! I want to make my baby girl’s birthday tutu! I might make 2 since she’s having 2 parties, one on my side and on on my husband’s side. My only question is that when using more than one color, how many pieces of one color do you do in a row before alternating to the next color? Thanks!

  55. Tina says

    Thank you for this tutorial. I love these tutus but they are pricey and I enjoy the idea of using them in photos and as gifts.

    Thanks!!
    Tina.

  56. Maggie says

    Hi Trisha- thank you so much for this, SO CUTE! I’m making tutus for the two flower girls in my upcoming wedding. I already tried starting one using a different tutorial but I think I’m making it more difficult than it has to be… One big question: are you cutting the tulle width or leaving it 6 inches across? The pictures look like you’re leaving it 6 inches.
    Thanks for your help!

  59. Sienna says

    Thanks so much for this (cute photos too!). I have to make a tutu for a niece for a school event and did not know where to start. You make it sound easy 🙂

  60. Cassandra says

    I have been making Tutu’s for a few months now!! I LOVE you tulle Wand.. ima make one for my Daughter to match all of her tutu’s i make her! thanks for the good crafty ideas. Ima Crafty person .. So ..TO MICHAELS i go to get my supplies!!! thanks!!!

  62. Lee says

    I’m not a crafty person at all but want to make one for my litle girls first birthday coming up. How much would this project cost me if I purchased the stuff at walmart or any other store? Just wondering how much cheaper it would be to try tomake this versus buying one already made. THanks

    • Heather says

      Lee, I made a tutu for my 4 month old today and the supplies cost me $6.81 at Hobby Lobby. I only needed 4 yards of tulle (2 yards each color) it was $1.49/yd. and the elastic was 69 cents.
      I did not make the tutu as long as hers though since my baby is still young and not as tall. And I didnt even use all the tulle I bought,

    • Savannah Renee says

      Lee,
      I just wanted you to know that I have a daughter that will be 4months old on the 15th of January 1 day after my birthday, which is the 14th. You can look on Ebay if you do not feel that you can make the actual TuTu your self, and when I was looking back In September a few days before my daughter was born I found a lady that would amke you whatever color you wanted with not only the TuTu, but the headband for $15 or the shirt part that can be made with the actual TuTu’s as well and maybe the headband as well for more like $25 for the whole set. You just have to shop around. I was going to buy one, but now that I have found this easy step by step instrustion guide, I want to tey to make one myself first to see if I can before I go out and buy one. I just wanted to let you know.

  63. Lilah says

    Laughed my butt off after reading your kitten tutu tutorial!! Hmm, I wonder how my dog would like one? 😉

  64. cristal says

    So I happen to find your how to make a tutu page today, I went out and bought my materials and have already made two. Of course my 12 week old daughter picks today to sleep more than two hours at a time so I cant try them on her tonight. Love the ideas you have posted, Im sure my daughter will have a tutu in every color by the end of the week. Thanks!!

  65. Vanessa says

    Hi trisha. I love the tutu in the picture, so I’m going to a 80’s theme party tomorrow & I need to make a tutu since i don’t want to buy one & I cant find one that blows me away, so i rather make one. my question is how many tulle strands do I buy to make the tutu ? I understand everything else but how many should I buy so it can go all around ? I’m thinking of pink, lime green & purple.
    Hope To hear from you. Thanks !

  68. Kaileigh says

    Thank you for posting this tutorial. I am going to make a tutu for my new baby cousin and I was worried about how to do it…but not now! The only question I have is: How do you make your tutus look so full? Mine always seem to fall limp. I want this tutu to stand out! Do you have any suggestions?

  69. Susan M Grimes says

    This is slightly off topic, but I was wondering if you knew how to make a tutu hair bow holder? If so, would you happen to have a bodice templete? I am a new fan and just LOVE your blog and tutorials!!!!

  70. MD says

    I have made several tutus &keep having the same problem- the elastic rolling when I’m tying the tulle on. How do you keep it from doing that?
    I gave up & just started making them on ribbon because then it doesn’t matter, but I would like to be able to do
    them on elastic.
    Thanks!

  71. Tina says

    I was wondering can you use another material instead of the tulle? This just seems so much easier than all the other patterns I’ve seen. Thanks for any info you can give.

  72. Amber says

    Thanks so much for the easy step by step instructions they were great and very helpful. Now hopefully my 2nd tutu will turn out better!

  73. Cathy Lewis says

    Hi, I just found this and want to thank you for posting it. I am just starting a photography business and am trying to make a lot of the items to use myself and was very happy to find your tutorial here for these! They sure couldn’t be any easier. LOL Also wanted to let you know that I am putting a link to your site on my blog right now so others in the business can check it out. I also love the tutu ball wand..I think I might be hanging out here a LOT for awhile 🙂
    Thanks again!

  74. Barbara Platt says

    I’ve never made anything with tulle, but I want to learn and want it to be good. What type should buy and where is the best place – cheapest place to buy it?
    Thanks,
    Barbara

  75. Michele says

    Hi there…I’m making my first tutu for my daughters. How do you attach the ribbon around the waistline? Or when you say you put ribbon on to hide discrepencies are you just covering that one spot? Thanks!! And your tutorial was SO much easier to understand than the other ones I looked at!

  77. Heather J says

    HI! I just discovered your website and I LOVE it! I have made my daughter a tutu using ribbon for the waist instead of elastic, but wanted to ask you how/why does your tulle stay down!? My daughter’s keeps creeping up and looks all crazy. Not sure if its just static this time of the year or what. Any suggestions are GREATLY appreciated!!!!
    ~Heather J

  78. Kris says

    Hi there, I want to make a tu tu for my new grand daughter who is 2 months old…af first I saw this
    and thought WHAT? but ok I can l see how you do it after looking again…..so with a infant….the same
    thing? and you sew the ends closed and pull over the tube? Before realizing I could get on here
    I just bought 1/2 yd of tulle….so I need how much more…..???
    Thanks for any tips…..My d in law would like one for each month’s picture/holiday…
    Thanks!!!!

  80. Amber says

    I have been making these tutus for my 2 yr old & 8 month old for a few months now. I made them matching tutus for thanksgiving & for christmas, I am planning on making one for my 2 yr olds birthday party but I am having trouble keeping the tulle “tight” on the elastic it always loosens up. Im just wondering if I am missing something or if there is a trick to it. Thanks! hope to hear back from you.

  83. Zaarascloset.com says

    I didn’t realize these tutus were so easy to make. I came here on the lookout for a large sized Tulle pom pom though. You do have one for a small one, but I’m not sure how to measure for something that I can hang from the ceiling on my lil’ girl’s birthday party. Would you please email me, if you can’t post something here? Thanks!

  84. To Sew With Love says

    Hi! thank you so much for this tute. The tutu is adorable and cute! Looking forward to more fabulous ideas. By the way we linked our post to your tutorial. Thanks a lot. have a nice day!

  86. Fun On A Dime Lady says

    Thanks for the tutuorial. I followed this a couple of years ago and am doing it again with a group of women. Very helpful to have somewhere to refer people and I love your extra links to other ideas. Thank you!

  87. Mrs. Army Wife says

    Thank you so much for the instructions. You’re absolutely right! It’s totally easy steps! I handmade the princess tutu for my daughter’s first birthday. Also, I sewed a satin rose petal with ribbons on the side, and sewed the satin ribbon to cover the elastic . It came out beautiful & adorable on her. Hope to see more of your creative works. Keep up the ideas!

  88. Eric says

    I wanted to say thanks for making this easy for me! I am a 30 year old father of 2 with almost no creative ability, but I can follow instructions. Because my incredible wife is busy taking care of everything else, she asked if I could make a tutu for our 5 month old daughter as part of her Halloween costume (Army cheerleader – her 2 year old brother is going as an Army football player). It turned out great thanks to you! And trust me, if you have made this easy enough for a man to do, there is no reason why anyone else couldn’t do it as well.

  90. Rosiee says

    Yourr So Great At Making Thesee Girlyyy Thingss(: I Needed To KNow How To Make A Tutu And Here It Is(: Thankss!

  91. Katrina Arthur says

    So I am making a tutu for my daughter and found that if you use an extra large Folgers can (Costco size) it makes tying the knot so much easier. The little indents/handle is the perfect size to get the tulle in there and no stretch the heck out of the elastic.

  92. heidi says

    okay, so i see that you say you use 20 yards of tulle, and like a few others, i guess, i’m hoping you can help me with a clarification. you use 20 yards on the big bolt and then cut it down? so how many yards of the 6 inch would you recommend?

  93. Mindy says

    How much tulle do you recommend using for a 3 month old, I know you said you use 20 yards but I am thinking that is way too much for a 3 month old??

  95. SuziQinTX says

    Remember that you can do the tutu to ponytail holders too and hot glue little pony beads or other things on the ends of a few of the peices of tulle to match the tutu!

  96. Lisa says

    I saw some asking how to make a pettitutu.. If you have Facebook and look up under pages Tiffany’s Tutus and “Like” her page. The profile pic is the back of a lil’ girl in a tutu running in some grass. She has a tutorial on how to do a layerd petti tutu that is great! She also has other links of great projects she did with pic and some of her tutus. They are AMAZING!

  97. maeghan says

    oh i dont sew either…

    i have seen on some websites where they are using the no sew tutus and tying them off at the bottom to make a makeshift petti… didnt know if you had any advice!

    I am going to try and make one this week… ill let you know how it goes…

    • amber freeman says

      i would try to make a tutu this weekend but i will let ya kno how it turns out if i follow your steps and dnt mess it up and have me to start all over again but juxx kno i will update you wen finished i hope it turns out to be so beautiful.

  98. maeghan says

    oh i dont sew either…

    i have seen on some websites where they are using the no sew tutus and tying them off at the bottom to make a makeshift petti… didnt know if you had any advice!

    I am going to try and make one this week… ill let you know how it goes…

  99. maeghan says

    I was wondering what you attach your embellishments with??? I have tried a few different glues but I was wondering if there was a better way???

      • maeghan says

        really???? ok… yay! one more silly question… do you put something behind the embellishment or just hot glue it to the tutu???

        • Trisha-admin says

          like a rhinestone for example, ill put it on the rhinestone and then press it on the tulle with either my finger on the underside (if its not too hot yet) or something like a pair of scissor blades on the back..i use scissor blades because it peels hot glue easy so it doesnt get stuck.

          • maeghan says

            thank you!!! I’ll try that for sure… i need to find some flowers or something to try as well… do you use the foam ones?? or what kind of embellishments do you use?

            Also, any advice on petti-tutus?

            • Trisha-admin says

              I like ribbons, premade bows from the craft section at hobby lobby, little puff balls for like snow flakes or dots, rhinestones…i also buy flowers w/ stems from the store and pop the flower off and throw the stem away..put the flower at the waist.

              i dont know how to make pettitutus..i mean i have never tried. I hate the sewing machine. HA

  100. Kellie says

    Im want to make one for my 13 Year old. is it kinda like making one for a kid only double the stuff or how should i do it?

  102. Ellen says

    I LOVE your tutus! Which instructions did you use to make them and how many yards did you use? I would like the one I want to make to be really full like the ones in your pictures. Beautiful!

  104. char says

    what if you are trying to make one that is really colorful and big but appropriate for a 13 year old at school

  105. Hannah Wingert says

    I’m trying to find instructions for a pettitutu, but I can’t find them anywhere? It’s a regular tutu with more tulle tied onto the bottom of the skirt and it’s super cute! Could you post instructions for that?

  106. Amy says

    I’m making an Alice in Wonderland costume for my adult self and this is very useful. Yeah, I know…

  107. Mandy says

    I used your info today and made my first tutu. My daughter is 9 months old and we are big Gator fans so I made her an orange, blue and white one. It is ADORABLE! Thanks for the great information!!

    • Mindy says

      How much tulle did you use for your 9 month old? I want to make one for my soon to be 3 month for her pictures and not sure how much to get, thanks!

  108. Aleksandra says

    I am so going to attempt to make one. I’m not super creative but this looks like a fun project! Thanks for all the great links and tips!

  109. jill says

    Such a cute skirt! How long of tulle should I cut for a 0-6 month old? And for a 6-12 month old?

  110. Rashelle says

    Hello,
    I made a tutu for my daughter birthday and it turned out really well, the only thing is it get’s knotty and bunched instead of smooth and pooffy, any advice??

  111. Michelle says

    You can use this method to make wigs as well – when I made a tutu for my daughter, I made a black and blue pirate wig for my 2-year-old son. Just cut the tulle a bit shorter (14-16″). I’m planning to make a brown-and-tan lion’s mane for him next!

  113. Kelly R says

    I’ve already made a couple of tutus and I’m happy with them except for the ends. I had purchased one and the ends are very even. Is there a trick to trimming the tutu once you are all done tying on the tulle? Thanks.

  115. Starla J says

    OK. I’m trying to make a tutu for my 5 year old. I made a red and black one with tulle from walmart on the bolt. I cut it in 2 inch or so wide strips and 24 inches long. I tried to make it really full with the tie method. but how do you get the strips to stand up o stiff out like in your pics? Mine just scrunched together. Do you use starch or stiff stuff? Please help I want to make her the perfect tutu for her birthday! Thank you for your help!!!

    • Trisha-admin says

      I did mine in layers…so i did like shorter and longer over the top of each other so it poofed out more. I also put a TON of tulle on there.

      trisha

      • Brandy says

        Ok, stupid question here…you said you make yours in layers- how do you do that ? I get how to make a no sew tutu but having trouble envisioning how to layer it without sewing…thanks

  116. Melissa says

    Hi,
    I’m just curious why you prefer the 6″ spool vs. the tulle on the bolt. I am having a hard time finding the colors I want in the spool! (I don’t want to order online because I want to see the fabric in person).

    Also, how many yards do you think I would need for a 1 yr. old tutu?

    Thank you so much!

    • Trisha-admin says

      Its pre-cut on one side on the 6″…the bolt is going to be like 3 yard across, so you have to cut it twice. If you get the spools, you only cut it at the length…it just makes it easier.

      🙂

  119. Kim says

    I doubled up my tulle and used the slip knot technique but my tutu is still coming out very thing and it’s all one layer. every tutu I see seems like it has multiple layers to it. How do I get this look?

  121. KB says

    Hi! Thanks so much for posting this! I want to make a couple of collegiate tutus for our daughter to wear this fall at football games. She’s not born yet, but she’ll be about 6 months old by the time football season rolls around. What’s the best way to know how much elastic to use? Would it be safe for me to measure the circumference of a size 6-9 month onesie and just use that?

  122. Marcie says

    Thanks for the awesome info!!! I have been eyeing some awesome tutu’s online and just couldn’t see myself throwing out all that money for 2 tutu’s for my daughters. A friend suggested making one and to google I went!!!

    My question is, when I go to JoAnn’s, how many yards of tulle do I need? I have an almost 4 year old and a 7 month old. Any ideas from experienced tutu makers would be much appreciated!

    • Momof2 says

      I used 100 yards of 6 inch tulle for a 21 inch waist band and they are very full ( I cut mine at 26 inches in length)

  124. Gina says

    I have 2 yr old twins so I have made a few tutus (thanks so much for the instructions they’ve saved me TONS!!!!) I started out making them on waistband wide elastic and I’ve even tried the very skinny elastic and no matter which i use the tulle stretches it out so much that there’s no elasticity left in the waistband… I have consequently started just making them on ribbon and sewing a hook and eye where each end of the ribbon “meets” at their bellies, then tying off the excess into a pretty bow in the front. I would like to know how to keep the elastic from stretching so much but still being able to keep the tulle taut and jam packed on the waistband so it keeps its fluff… any suggestions??

    • MOMof2 says

      You really can’t keep it tight – I measure their waist and take 3 inches off and use a safety pin to hold the elastic together. Then I put on the tulle and when I get close to the safety pin I measure it around them again and cut the elastic if I need to. But usually taking 3 inches off is about perfect.

    • alyssa says

      littlemissbeautifuldesigns.com for tutu dresses. custom made with yards and yards of tulle. awesome prices

  126. Tori says

    i am so excited i found these cheap and easy instructions. now i can be a REAL bumble bee ballarina!!!!!! 😀

  127. Sarah says

    Thank you so much for this! I was going to buy a tutu but they cost almost $30 here and I didnt know if the packaged one would fit. This is a great source and your directions are super easy. I used the ones for the layered tutu instead but alternated colors and just tied two of the same color together instead.

  128. Michaela says

    Great instructions! My tutu seems much flatter and more see through than yours any ideas on how i can make it stand out more and be thicker?

  129. Harley says

    Also, your tule seems like it has layers to it or something.
    Mine seems so transparent.
    What can I do to fix this?

    • Erin says

      It also depends on how you tie it. There were several websites that she sent listed. If you go to the third one, it tells you to tie it in just a normal knot. That will give you more layers and make it poofier than if you tie it with the slip-knot thing.

  130. Harley says

    Your directions helped me so much.
    The only problem I’m having is with cutting the tule. It never comes out nice and straight. Is there anyway to buy it pre-cut maybe?
    Help please!

  131. Heather says

    I have never made a tutu before and want to make one for my daughter. I’ve seen ones where the ends of the tulle are more pointy like a fairy type tutu. How do you do that?

  132. cheera says

    I just wanted to say this is a great tutorial! I am a mom of two boys and a girl and the girl is the yongest and she is very girlie, girlie. I am looking forward to making her a Tutu for Halloween. I am thinking of making a couple for some birthdays! Thanks for the info!

  133. jordann says

    This year I am making a blue and green tutu for my halloween costume as a fairy, except when i do the two colored tutu tutorial so far you can see my pants underneath…
    what do I do to fix that?

    I’ve got 3 yards of blue and 3 years of green.
    Advice Please…

  134. Jenny says

    I used your tutorial to make a red and black tutu for my daughter’s ladybug costume. I then took and extra yard of the red tulle and folded it until it fit her back from wrist to wrist then cut it into a half circle. I sewed black felt circles to the top layer and pinned it to a black shirt. It came out great – the tutu helps keep the back in the half-circle and my daughter loves the tutu (and keeps asking for it, but she has to wait until Halloween). Now I have a request for a Tinkerbell tutu – but she’ll have to wait until next weekend!

    • Tiffany says

      Is there anyway to post a pic of your lady bug? I am making my daughter a lady bug for halloween as well and I wanted to see your idea? Thanks tiffany

  135. peggy says

    Just made my 25 month old grandaughter a tutu and she and i love it, but the one thing that is driving me crazy is that averytime she moves it bunches up. Is there a way to keep that from happening?

  137. Nicole M. says

    I bought off the bolt. If I cut in strips of 6 inch wide and make them 20 – 24 inches long, will my tutu look that full? I think your pink and green one is perfect. I just look at the black one I have started and think it looks really transparent. I am trying to fluff. But, I’m worried.

  139. Krystyn says

    Thanks, Trisha!

    I used one of the links to make bows..but I am sooo not good at it. Any suggestions for the glue? I used a glue gun and the glue is so bulky!

    • Tiana says

      I use super glue GEL in making bows all the time and it holds fabulously! – dries almost instantly! – and zero bulk! Make sure you get the GEL though because the liquid will bleed through the ribbon and you will be able to see it. Not very pretty. Also, clean up any edges where the gel squeezed out when you press the two pieces together or it will dry to the next thing it touches. I use ribbon scraps to wipe it off quickly since I’m throwing them away anyway. :o)

  140. Trisha-admin says

    @ Tiffany:
    a lot of times, hobby lobby and joanns both do 50% off tulle yards during sales every 3-4 weeks. Just buy in bulk at that time.

  142. Tiffany says

    Where can I purchase Tulle for a low cost? Most sites are charging $6-$9 for shipping!!!! =(

  143. awwwww says

    Yes! I was thinking of spending like $30 on one from a dancewear boutique or something…Now I know that I can make something more original for cheaper. Thanks for this!

    btw is that your daughter? She’s really cute:)!!

  144. christina says

    they look great!! btw did you also make that headband in the second picture? if so, how?

  146. Robin says

    This is a great site! Thank you. We are having our Male executive director and assistant executive director dress as Ballerina’s for a fundraiser and this was brilliant! Thank you!

  147. Raven says

    I’d like to make a tutu with bunch of different skirts or cloth. and i was wondering would i just follow the regular directions, or is there something different? you see i have skirts laying around i don’t wear and i’d like to turn them into a tutu, because i want one so bad. And i’d like to wear it on my birthday which is next tuesday. so if anyone will help me? or you please.

  148. Amber says

    WOW that is great, I was thinking about buying my daughter who just learned to stand up a dress from a boutique, they wanted like 25 dollars but I’m sure I could make one alot cheaper thanks again.

  149. Krystal says

    It’s that easy! I know what I will be making for the little girls on my Christmas list this year! Thanks!

  150. Jen says

    I cannot believe that this is so easy. I spent $60.00 on eBay to have a tutu custom made for my daughter. When I received it, I realized that I probably could have done it myself. Now, after reading your instructions, I KNOW that I could have done it myself. I was going to have another made for her 2nd birthday… not anymore… I’m off to the craft store this weekend. Thank you so much!!!!

  151. Joell'e says

    Thanks so much for your help my SWEET 16 is comming up real soon and i was thinking really hard on something diffrent i could do and i decided that i wanted my outfit to involve a TUTU, but not just any TUTU, one of my own because i hardly ever buy my cloths and or accessories, i make them b/c i love being diffrent and since i could not every store that actually sells fashion TUTU’s want an insane price for them, i made the decision to make my own, and all the other websites give me the “run around” about a whole lotta nothing. I was just ECSTATIC when I saw your site. AND ONCE AGIAN ->THANKS!

    4RM: Joell’e FASHION EXTRAORDINAIRE!

  152. Kelly says

    Thanks so much for this, I was trying to find someone to make me one, but ran out of time. You’re awesome =)

  155. Estee says

    I just wanted to say *thanks* for this!! I have been looking all over the web for instructions on how to make a tutu and now I am ready to rock! Thanks!!! 🙂

  156. Abby says

    Oh mah gawsh.
    These instructions are just what I need!
    Im having a halloween party with lots of my friends and my best friend has the cutest outfit *Bumble bee*
    And I just love the tutu on her’s so now I can totally have one too :]
    Whew! The last time I tried to make a tutu my sewing machine like almost had a heart attack so Im’a stick with the “No-Sew” Directions.
    <3

  157. Sam says

    Thank you very much for the great sites. I need to make a tutu for myself (a 20 year old) and could not find anything suiting online. I need a black and yellow adult tutu, and I don’t have a sewing machine, so the “no sew” site was a great help. Thanks again!

  159. Marielle says

    Thank you so much for posting this. I am a college student and dont have money to buy a store baught tutu for clubing and raving. this is going to be such a big help!!!

  160. Yasmine says

    Thanks for the links!
    I love purple! but I didnt have enough purple on hand so i just used all the colors i had(blue/pink/purple/white) i dont like too many colors but for my first time, i think i did a pretty decent job! i cant wait for my daughterto get up from her nap!

  162. Augusta says

    OMG, super cute pix. I am going to try to make it for my daughter’s 2nd birthday party. Do you by any chance how to make a tutu halter dress?? Prob the same right?
    Thank you

  163. Tena says

    Adorable!!!
    Wish I had someone to dress in Tutu’s, maybe I can get the Dh nice and drunk and make him one?? No? Yeah, probably not likely!