I do a lot of posts on painted furniture – but one of the most popular posts on my blog continues to be my DIY No-Sew Toddler Tutu tutorial. It’s from way back in 2012 – and I am still making them – so thought I’d do an updated version! This year, I made an awesome unicorn tutu for my daughter for Halloween. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can make one too!!
Step 1: Gather your supplies:
- Tape Measure
- Scissors
- Tulle
- Ribbon
- Painters Tape (as a length marker)
Step 2: Decide The TuTu Size And Measure The Tulle
You can measure the person’s waist, or feel free to use this size guide below.TUTU SIZE GUIDENEWBORN:(0-6 months) 15-16″ waist ~ 5-6″ length INFANT: (6-12 months) 16-17″ waist ~ 6-7″ length TODDLER:(12-24 months)17-18″ waist ~ 8-9″ length PRESCHOOL:(2T-4T) 19-20″ waist ~ 9-11″ length CHILD:(4-6 YRS) 21-22″ waist ~ 11-13″ length
Next determine the length of tulle. This will determine how long the tutu is. I like to make mine a size or two bigger than I needl. You get extra fluffiness!!
Step 3: Measure and cut your ribbon.
After you determine the waist size, add and additional 20″ and cut your ribbon. The additional length will create a cute bow!
When you buy your ribbon, be sure to get a least 1 1/2″. You want a sturdy ribbon to handle all that tulle. Learn from my mistakes and DO NOT buy wired ribbon… it doesn’t work!!!
Once cut – from one end, measure 10″ and tie a knot, and from the other end measure 10″ and tie another knot.
Step 4:Making a Slipnot
Lay the tulle in a hoseshoe shape and then place the ribbon on top of it.
Step 5 : Pull Under And Through
Pull the two strands through the hole of the horseshoe.
Step 6: Pull Tight But Not Too Tight
A lighter not gives a better result – you want it tight but not too tight – like in the picture below.
Step 7: You Now Have A Perfect Tutu Strand
After you complete the first knot – the rest come pretty easy. Continue the pattern with whatever color tulle you are using. Space the knots out evenly and make sure they are tight but not too tight.
Step 8: Repeat The Process with Different Colors
Below is the Unicorn tutu I made my daughter for her Halloween costume. I used the colors that I had on hand and spaced accordingly. The number of knots per color will ultimately depend on the amount of material you have and your pattern design. Use the pictures below to help inspire your pattern design for your size tut. If you are still unclear check out my original DIY No-Sew Tutu post.
