How to Make a Costume Tutu Without Sewing

If you need a tutu skirt for a costume party or other fun event, consider making your own rather than purchasing one. With some tulle, ribbon, tape, and scissors, plus a few hours of your time, you can make a tutu without having to sew. Here's how.

Step 1: Preparing the tulle.

Choose tulle fabric in whatever color you please. You'll need about 30 yards of the fabric. If you can purchase it while it's still on the fabric spool, that will make things a lot easier.

Cut the tulle into strips that are about 12 inches wide. If the fabric is still on the spool, you can simply remove it from the spool and then make a long cut through each of the folds at the sides. You should get about 90 strips of tulle from your 30 yards of fabric.

Step 2: Tie on the tulle

Thick, colored ribbon made from fabric is best for this project. Look for ribbon that's about an inch wide and that has a smooth texture. Avoid ribbon with a grippy texture, as it will make it hard to adjust your tutu.

Cut a piece of ribbon that's long enough to wrap around your waist and tie comfortably. It's better to go too long than too short. Once your ribbon is cut, start tying pieces of the tulle around it. Tie them tightly so there's not a lot of bulk around the ribbon. If you want your tutu really full, you can stack two or three pieces of tulle and tie them on as one unit. For a softer look, tie the tulle pieces on one at a time. Keep tying pieces of tulle, lining them up one next to the other.

Step 3: Arrange the tulle properly.

When you've finished tying tulle strips around the ribbon, wrap the ribbon around your waist. Then, slide the tulle strips over as needed to ensure they're evenly distributed and not lingering on the portion of the ribbon that you need to tie. You can use a little super glue or hot glue to hold the last tulle strips in place if they seem to be sliding. Then, tie your tutu ribbon in a bow around your waist and admire your tutu's beauty.

Your tutu should last through many uses as long as you take care of it! If it needs to be cleaned, hand-wash it in warm water with a little dish soap; don't put it in the washer. If you need a fancier tutu or don't want to make one yourself, head to a place such as BB's Boutique to check out their offerings.

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