2024 Summer Knitting and Tutu Ideas in Portsmouth

Hey gorgeous gals! It's Emma here, your resident tutu enthusiast and ballet-loving blogger. Today, we're diving deep into a world of pastel pinks, intricate stitches, and the ultimate summer statement: knitted tutus!

I’m super excited to be talking to you all about something close to my heart – bringing a bit of tutu magic into the everyday with handcrafted knitwear. And what better place to talk about it than Portsmouth, with its beautiful seafront and the perfect seaside vibe? I love the energy of this place, especially in summer! So, grab your favourite ice cream and a big scoop of inspiration – we’re going to be getting super creative today!

We all know that the world of ballet and fashion go hand in hand. It’s a magical combination of grace and elegance, and let's face it, the sheer joy of tutus. But sometimes, the conventional store-bought tutus can feel a bit... predictable.

That's where our knitted beauties come in. We’re not talking about your grandma’s chunky woolly cardies here. We’re talking about beautifully intricate, delicate knitted designs that transform traditional ballet wear into modern, statement-making outfits. Think intricate floral patterns, gorgeous pastel shades (my favourite!), and oh-so-feminine shapes, with the softness and comfort of wool making them perfect for twirling and leaping with absolute joy.

Now, if you're like me and absolutely love getting creative with your wardrobe, you're going to adore the whole handmade, knitted-tutu concept. You can really tailor the look to suit your individual style and colour preferences! For summer, it's all about soft, dreamy colours. Imagine a pale pink, delicate knitted tutu that's perfect for an evening picnic on Southsea Common. Or think about a breezy, ivory-coloured creation for those balmy, late-night strolls along the beach.

In Portsmouth, I've got a few secret spots I want to share with you all:

• Knit Wit. This is a haven for the yarn-loving soul! They stock everything from classic wools to the most incredible textures and colours. The best part? They offer workshops and classes – perfect for learning the art of creating your very own tutu! Imagine crafting your own one-of-a-kind masterpiece while chatting with other enthusiastic crafters. What’s not to love?

• The Stitch Studio. If you prefer to learn from a true master, The Stitch Studio is your go-to. They offer workshops focusing on a variety of knit and crochet projects. I highly recommend their ‘Knitted Tutu for Beginners’ class. It's a great way to pick up a new skill while making a truly unique, stunning piece.

• The Wool House. This little treasure trove is all about finding the finest wools. The staff are amazing, too. They are true experts and will gladly offer guidance and tips if you’re a beginner. And, let’s be honest, it’s the best excuse for an afternoon spent getting lost in an array of amazing textures and hues.

Outside Portsmouth, there’s also some fantastic resources:

• Knit and Natter Online Community. If you’re more of a self-starter and love getting involved with an online community, Knit and Natter is your dream spot! With loads of pattern ideas, tutorials and inspiration, this platform is packed full of helpful advice for making your own unique knitted tutus.

Here are a few tips to get you twirling into summer:

• Keep It Simple: For that effortless summer look, choose a knitted tutu with a simple silhouette, allowing the beautiful fabric to take centre stage. This is especially good for warmer days as it's more comfortable and airy.

• Play With Texture: Think about using a range of textures to make your knitted tutu even more special. I'm obsessed with mixing different types of yarns. You can go for a silky-smooth mohair top and combine it with a coarser textured wool for the tutu's main body.

• Get Bold with Colours: As we head into summer, try a bold colour combination! Pairing your pale pink knitted tutu with a vibrant coral top will make for a playful and summery look. For a bolder touch, try mixing different colours of yarn throughout your project. I recently found a pattern using turquoise, lavender and sunshine yellow - how gorgeous is that!

• Add Some Accessories: Elevate your look with statement jewellery like delicate silver or gold chains, colourful beads, or a sparkling headband. And don’t forget about adding a cute headband to compliment your ensemble.

• Dance In Comfort: You’ll find that a knitted tutu is wonderfully lightweight and allows your skin to breathe. Opt for comfortable fabrics for your tops, keeping them loose and flowy to enhance your effortless ballerina vibe. You can layer with sheer or lightweight scarves for those chilly evenings, giving you ultimate styling flexibility.

Remember to capture your finished pieces and post them on social media! You can even use the hashtag #tutuknitted or #tutuwool. There are so many amazing crafting communities on platforms like Instagram and TikTok where you can share your creations and get inspired by other talented crafters. Who knows, you could even be the next tutu trendsetter!

So there you have it, my lovely dancers. Get ready to take your summer style to a whole new level! Knitting your own tutu allows you to unleash your inner creativity and embrace the unique beauty of this trend. Let’s turn those twirls into a fashion statement that embodies summer's carefree energy, bringing a touch of magic and whimsy wherever you go.

Now get out there and get crafting, beautiful!

Love, Emma