2024 Summer Knitting and Tutu Ideas in Islington

Hey fellow dance enthusiasts! Emma here, your resident ballet blogger, and this summer, I'm completely smitten with Islington's blossoming knitted ballet scene. I mean, who wouldn't be? Imagine a world where fluffy, vibrant knitwear meets the elegance of ballet – that's exactly what's happening right now in Islington!

You know how much I love tutues, and with the warm weather arriving, it's the perfect time to experiment with lighter, more summery styles. And you can't get more summery than knitwear – it’s breezy, it’s chic, and it’s just plain fun!

So, where do you go in Islington for your knitted ballet fix?

Located on Upper Street, this yarn haven is a must-visit for anyone who loves creating. The owner, Sarah, has a true passion for all things knitting and is always happy to offer advice, even for us novice knitters (guilty!).

The Yarn Bar boasts a stunning collection of yarn in a rainbow of colours – perfect for a summery tutu. Sarah also has a collection of vintage patterns and is always happy to help you find the perfect one to transform your dream tutu into reality.

Here’s what you can expect from a visit:

• Yarn galore: Sarah’s collection is a real treat. You’ll find everything from chunky wool to fine cashmere, perfect for layers, ruffles, or just a smooth finish.

• Free knitting classes: The Yarn Bar offers regular knitting workshops. Sarah's passion is infectious and you can learn techniques like lace knitting, cabling, and colourwork, giving your tutues a unique and textured look.

• A community vibe: Knitting can be a solitary activity but Sarah's warm personality brings people together. The store often hosts knitting circles, allowing you to bond with others over shared projects and share tips.

The beauty of knitted tutues is their versatility! They can be soft and fluffy for a fairytale look, or sleek and modern with a touch of sophistication. Here are a few summery ideas that are making me want to grab my knitting needles:

• The pastel cloud: Dreamy, airy, and light – this tutu is made using soft pink or light blue yarns for a cloud-like feel. This would be gorgeous in a floaty fabric like chiffon, giving it extra movement and a real summer vibe.

• The boho chic: Think natural fibres and boho-inspired patterns. This tutu can incorporate cotton or bamboo yarn and features tassels or fringe to create a relaxed, summery look.

• The geometric wonder: A more modern approach to the tutu! Use a brightly coloured yarn, in neon pink or sunshine yellow, and work it in bold geometric patterns like stripes or chevrons. The contrast will create a bold statement!

My favourite yarn for these projects? Bamboo yarn. It's soft on the skin, breathable, and has a natural, organic feel that’s perfect for a summery tutu.

There are plenty of amazing ballet communities online and I’m encouraging you to join the #Tutuknitted movement. Here’s why I think it’s so special:

• Show off your skills: Let’s face it, making your own tutu is a real achievement! So make sure to share it on Instagram and use the #Tutuknitted hashtag to connect with other knitters.

• A source of inspiration: Seeing what other knitters are creating is inspiring! This community can spark new ideas and motivate you to try out different styles and techniques.

• A fun way to connect: Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned knitter, there's a strong community feel in the #Tutuknitted world. You can find tips, advice, and even collaborate with other knitters to create unique pieces.

Why am I so obsessed with knitted tutus? It's more than just a fashion statement. For me, it's about the process – taking that yarn and transforming it into something beautiful and wearable. It requires patience, concentration, and a certain amount of creativity – all qualities that are crucial in ballet too!

The joy of creating something with your own two hands is a feeling I'm addicted to! It's like giving life to a piece of imagination, and the result, well, it’s just gorgeous.

Islington has really become the epicenter for knitted ballet fashion. So grab your knitting needles, find your favourite yarn, and get ready to #Tutuknitted!

Let's be honest, who doesn't love a little bit of glitz and glamour? Well, Islington is definitely getting a healthy dose of both. With more and more ballet schools popping up and a growing interest in ballet fashion, knitwear is taking center stage.

Here's the buzz I'm hearing on the Islington ballet scene:

More Than Just A Hobby: Knitting isn't just for grannies anymore. The ballet community in Islington is embracing the art of knitting and taking it to a whole new level. From creating bespoke pieces for classes to designing gorgeous costumes for recitals, knitted tutus are adding a personal touch and a dash of creativity to performances.

Ballet Stores Getting On Board: Some Islington ballet boutiques have embraced the trend and started selling knitted leotards, warm-up jackets, and of course, those incredible tutus. The selection is expanding quickly too, catering to a wider range of tastes and budgets.

A Boost for Local Businesses: Islington's knitters are being celebrated, too. Local yarn stores are seeing a surge in customers and the popularity of knitting classes has skyrocketed.

Knitting Communities For Every Dancer: Knitting circles specifically designed for dancers are sprouting up. They offer a chance for dancers to connect, share their passion for knitting, and exchange ideas. Imagine learning how to knit a ballet legwarmer with a group of like-minded dancers – pure magic!

I love the way ballet fashion evolves! From the classical lines to the modern silhouettes, there’s a lot of space for creativity in tutu design.

• The "Balletcore" trend: Inspired by the gracefulness of ballet, this fashion movement is all about flowing skirts, feminine silhouettes, and ballet-inspired accessories.

• The sustainable approach: Knitted tutus can be more sustainable than traditional tutus because you can recycle and upcycle yarn. The focus is on using natural fibers, and there are even sustainable yarn brands making waves in the industry.

• Custom made: The best thing about knitted tutus is the customization. You can create a tutu that perfectly reflects your personality and your style, adding details like fringes, sequins, or even incorporating your favourite ballet moves into the design.

Maybe you think knitting is an impossible art, but I'm here to tell you it's not. It just takes a little patience and the right guidance.

The key is to start small:

• Pick a simple pattern: There are countless easy patterns available online, focusing on simple stitches and basic shapes.

• Use thicker yarn: Chunky yarn is much easier to handle for beginners.

• Join a class: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Join a beginner’s knitting class – the community can be so welcoming and encouraging.

• Don't give up: Even the most experienced knitters make mistakes. The important thing is to learn from them and keep practising.

I'm convinced that everyone can knit, and who knows? You might even be creating your own stunning ballet costumes in no time.

In the heart of Islington, I’ve encountered some remarkably talented ballet knitters:

• Ellie: Ellie started knitting as a child and it quickly became her passion. She uses her knitting skills to create intricate tutus that are both functional and beautiful. Her designs feature delicate patterns and a soft, ethereal feel, perfect for ballet performances.

• James: James is a pro ballet dancer with a love for the craft of knitting. He found a creative outlet in knitting and designs innovative warm-up wear for dancers – practical and stylish.

• The Islington Knitting Club: This group of knitters offers classes for all levels of experience, from beginners to advanced. They have a passion for creating not only beautiful, functional ballet costumes, but also for supporting local artists and promoting a strong sense of community within the ballet scene.

Their creativity and commitment to knitting are truly inspiring and they’re helping to transform Islington into a vibrant hub for knitted ballet fashion.

This summer, I’m fully embracing the #Tutuknitted wave! Islington has become a haven for ballet knitters, a place where creativity meets passion and fashion is just a yarn away.

I hope you’re ready to join me in this knitted ballet journey! What’s your dream knitted tutu? What colour will you use? What patterns are you dreaming up?

Share your #Tutuknitted designs and stories with me on Instagram and let's knit together a beautiful summer of ballet fashion.

This is Emma signing off – stay stylish, stay creative, and most importantly, stay inspired!