Hey dancers and fashionistas! Emma here, your local ballerina and knit-obsessed blogger, back with another fashion-tastic post!
The summer is in full swing, the sun is shining, and the days are long. This means one thing – ballet season is about to get even more vibrant and playful! And what better way to celebrate than by embracing the most iconic ballet garment: the tutu.
But hold on a second, this isn't your grandma's old-fashioned tutu, no, this is tutu 2.0! Think hand-knitted masterpieces in every shade of summer imaginable, from sunshine yellow to sky blue to, of course, my absolute favourite, pink! 😉
I've always been drawn to the elegance of ballet, but let's face it, the traditional tulle tutus can be a bit…stiff, shall we say? 🤯 They don't exactly move with you on stage, let alone on a summer’s day. This is where the magical world of #tutuknitted and #tutuwool comes in!
Now, you're probably thinking "Knitting? That sounds time-consuming and complicated!" Trust me, it’s easier than you think and SO rewarding! It’s a way to make your unique artistic vision come to life, a canvas for colour, texture and endless creative possibilities! Imagine a vibrant coral tutu, knit with a chunky yarn for a modern, bold look, or a light-as-a-feather lilac tutu crafted from delicate laceweight yarn – it's just stunning! 🤩
Where to Find your Braintree Ballet Knitting Wonderland!
Luckily, you don't have to wander far to start your #tutuknitted adventure. Braintree boasts some incredible yarn shops that are brimming with the most fantastic colours and textures – it's basically a knitter’s dreamland! 🧶
Here are some of my favourite local spots to get started on your #tutuwool journey:
- The Yarn Basket, Braintree: This family-run shop is a hidden gem, overflowing with everything a yarn-lover could possibly need. They have a fantastic selection of natural fibres like merino wool and cashmere, perfect for a luxurious and beautifully flowing tutu. They’re also incredibly knowledgeable about knitting techniques, so if you’re a beginner, don't be afraid to ask for their advice!
- The Stitchery, Braintree: This haven for crafty souls boasts an impressive array of knitting needles and hooks in every size and material imaginable, not to mention the perfect tools for embellishing your tutu creation. They also hold regular workshops and classes, which are fantastic if you're just starting out and want some expert guidance.
- The Craft House, Braintree: This cosy shop is a paradise for anyone who enjoys working with their hands. They have an inspiring selection of yarns and fabrics, but it’s their helpful staff that really make the difference. They are always happy to share their tips and tricks, no matter how big or small your knitting project.
Ready to Design Your Dream Tutu!
Now that we've got the essentials sorted, let’s get down to business and create something truly spectacular! Here's a quick guide to creating the perfect summer tutu that will have you turning heads:
Step 1: Choose Your Yarn
- For a Flowing Look: Choose lightweight yarn like mohair, laceweight, or fine merino wool for a delicate and breezy feel.
- For a Bold Statement: Experiment with chunky or aran weight yarn to create a thicker and more textured tutu.
- For a Unique Touch: Combine different yarn weights and textures for a visually striking effect.
- Embrace the Summer Theme: Choose colours that embody the bright and cheerful energy of summer. Think sun-kissed hues of orange, yellow, coral, turquoise, or vibrant greens.
Step 2: The Design – Where to Begin
- Basic Shapes: Start with simple patterns for a classic look: A straight-across shape, A-line, or circular for a true tutu effect.
- Modern Touch: Play around with adding crochet details, knit appliqués, or woven elements to create a more personalized look.
- Adding Structure: Consider using thicker yarn for the bottom layer and progressively thinner yarn for the top layers to create depth and dimension.
- Think About Your Costume: Your tutu should complement the rest of your ballet attire.
Step 3: Get Your Knitting Needles Ready
- Size and Material: The needle size will depend on the yarn you’ve chosen, so check the yarn label for recommendations. You’ll find circular needles perfect for creating a smooth circular skirt for the classic tutu style, or use straight needles for more modern designs.
- Needle Material: Metal needles tend to have a smoother surface, but if you're using wool, wooden or bamboo needles might help the stitches flow better.
Step 4: Find your Knitting Style and Rhythm
- Basic Knit Stitch: The quintessential knit stitch creates a simple and elegant look, perfect for the classic tutu design.
- Variations for Texture: Experiment with purl stitches for added texture or play with cables for more complex and visually engaging details.
- Embellishing the Skirt: Adding tassels, pom-poms, beads, or sequin details adds personality and sparkle to your finished tutu.
Step 5: Creating the Perfect Fit
- Measure Twice, Knit Once: Take your own measurements carefully to ensure a perfect fit!
- Trying it on as you go: This will ensure it fits just right before you complete the entire piece.
- Using Elastic: You can create a secure waistband with elastic to give your tutu the perfect snug fit, and it helps the garment drape gracefully.
And Remember, There are NO Rules in the World of #tutuknitted!
Let your imagination run wild, embrace the bold, be creative and, most importantly, have fun! Experiment with textures, colour combinations, and don’t be afraid to push your knitting skills to new heights!
Sharing your Creativity:
Remember, social media is your best friend when it comes to showing off your amazing #tutuwool creations! Share your progress and finished products with fellow knitters and ballet lovers, and you might just inspire someone else to pick up their needles! 💖
Follow these social media tips to make a splash:
- #tutuknitted: This hashtag is all about showcasing the beauty of knit ballet garments. Use it in your photos to connect with a global community of fellow knitters and ballet lovers.
- #tutuwool: Highlight the magical world of wool yarn used for tutu-making. This hashtag allows others to discover your favourite wool choices and patterns.
- #balletfashion: A perfect hashtag for showcasing the stylish and elegant side of ballet, where knit tutus will shine!
- #braintreecrafters: Celebrate your local craft community. Share your progress and inspiration and show your pride in supporting your local shops.
- @YourFavouriteYarnShop: Give credit to the local shop where you bought your yarn and let everyone know where they can get amazing supplies too!
Now that we've been through all the exciting stuff, I'm eager to see the incredible tutu creations you will be working on. Remember to have fun, be creative and let your inner ballet goddess shine! Let’s turn Braintree into a buzzing hub of #tutuknitted magic! 🩰✨
Emma.
xx
