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How to Make an Authentic Ballet Tutu

A classical tutu has a wide, flat skirt made of stiff tutu netting. The classical tutu is often called a pancake, platter, plate or Russian tutu. Classical tutus were first worn in the 1880s by Italian dancer Virgina Vucci. Previous to this, tutus were comprised of soft layers of tulle that were cut just above the ankle.This created a flowy, ethereal effect while dancing. However, as the years passed, audiences desired to see more of the intricate leg work that ballet dancers were performing. Out of this desire, tutus were redesigned to show more of the dancers leg and the classical “pancake tutu" was born.

Things You'll Need

  • Sewing Machine
  • Scissors
  • 2 rolls of stiff petticoat tulle
  • Dancing briefs
  • Sheet of sewing wire
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut 4-inch strips of tulle at four different lengths ranging from 12 inches to 2 inches. There should be a 2- to 3-inch graduation between the layers. Cut enough strips so that you have 40 layers of tulle altogether.

    • 2

      Beginning with the longest layer, use a sewing machine to sew the strips of tulle onto the base of the dancing brief. Work downward so that the longest layer is on the top and the shortest layer is on the bottom. Use the gathering foot attachment on your sewing machine to gather the layers of tulle at the base.

    • 3

      Insert a wired layer in the middle of the tulle layers to add stiffness to the tutu. Cut out a layer of sewing wire to be the same length as the middle tulle layer. Sew the wire onto the briefs to secure it.

    • 4

      To ensure the tulle layers stick together, steam the layers of tulle. Turn your iron onto the lowest setting. From bottom to top, run the iron over each layer of tulle, one by one, so that they lie completely straight.

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Ballet

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