*Tutu too FUN*

Okay, let me first begin by apologizing for not making this blog about my curtains.  I mentioned in my last post that I would be discussing that in the following post (next week).  I am still planning on doing that but have gotten several requests for bow and tutu tutorials.  So, I am doing a BONUS post this week to keep my followers (hopefully there's a few out there..hehe) happy!!!  If there is anything you are wanting to learn more about please message me and I would be happy to make a special post. 
Well, this is all possible through a good friend, Jessica Dimitro.  She was wanting to make some tutus and bows for her gorgeous little lady.  These bows and tutus pictured below were made together while she learned the basics.  She was kind enough to allow me to take pictures so I can teach you too. 

We will begin with the tutus because I have found it's easier to base the bow off the tutu after it's made and you can see the outcome.  The bows are much easier and less time consuming so those are better to change last minute when you have a better idea of what the entire outfit will look like. 

My bows are all made with that really popular and soft material that is stretchy or a soft headband.  I never want to do anything too tight that would maybe leave a mark on my baby's head.  I find mine at Walmart near all the headbands, bobby pins and hair accessories.  You can also find them at Hobby Lobby and Michaels.  You will see the different types in the pictures below.  You can get a bunch of them for only a few bucks or even order in bulk online for very cheap.  Next, you will choose the flower.  I like to get colorful flowers and the bigger the better.  You can find floral sales at the craft stores and get some beautiful flowers for a reasonable price.  Take the flower apart and separate the plastic from the silk flower.  You only want the soft fabric pieces. 

Then, you get to choose a fun button that matches the headband or even a cute rhinestone to place in the middle of the flower.  Glue the button/rhinestone first to the top of the flower and then glue the flower to your headband.  Be careful if you're using those holey ones that aren't solid.  I've burned myself too many times. ha

Stay tuned, I'll show you how to make the matching tutu. 

So to begin the tutu you want to choose your tulle color.  I like buying those spools because it's the perfect amount and great width.  You just cut your strips and then begin tying knots. 

Depending on low little your Princess is, you will determine your length.  Check the length you like and double it because we are tying it around the elastic.  To make the waistband, you just measure your the waistline (I just eyeball it with the elastic around her waist) and cut your elastic to fit.  You want it to be just a hair smaller than the actual waist because remember it's elastic and stretches.  I just love hot glue and use it constantly.  I hot glue the elastic together and begin tying the strips around it. 

This is kind of hard to explain so try to remain patient with me.  Take your tulle and fold it in half.  Take the loop (very center of tulle) and bend it over the elastic.  Feed the other end of tulle (two ends) through the loop and pull tight.  The tighter it is, the cleaner it will look.  If you leave it loose it may begin coming apart.  You will see the end product and have a better idea of what I'm talking about.  I also like adding different ribbon and/or yarn to add a little texture and another dimension.  It makes it look a little unique too. 

If you're adding ribbon or in this case, yarn, you will just tie it on like the tulle.  Now for bows or ribbon at the top of the tutu.  This is a great opportunity to add a splash of color or make it look even more fancy.  This bow is attached with Velcro.  How ingenious is that?  My neighbor Donna Pieber is to thank for this.  She made a tutu for her granddaughter and used this idea.  Now, this versatile skirt can be changed to look totally different with a change of a bow.  Again, just hot glue the Velcro onto the tutu and then on each bow that may be attached. Watch your female and male pieces.  All the bows will be one and only the tutu is the other.  If you like the tutus with the ribbon around the top, that can be done two different ways.  I either feed it under each tied piece and the elastic band.  You can also wind the ribbon around the top and end with making a big bow in the center.  I have pictures below of both methods.  The nice thing about making these is it's all trial and error.  Everything can be undone and redone. 

 Here is the same skirt with a yellow bow. 

Now check out these other skirts we did.  They are fun and just as easy to make. 

I know these look daunting but once you do it one time, it's so easy to repeat.  Follow these simple steps and write in with questions.  I would love to clarify something for you.