Hey gorgeous dancers, Emma here! It’s the time of year for picnics in the park, lazy days by the pool, and – let’s be honest – dreaming about that perfect summer ballet outfit.
This summer, I'm ditching the usual black leotards and throwing some seriously pink colour into the mix (sorry, not sorry!), and it all starts with a tutu. Yes, you heard me right – a knitted tutu!
For the past few months, I’ve been on a quest to discover the ultimate summer tutu, one that breathes, moves, and reflects that sunshine feeling. Forget those itchy, scratchy store-bought tutus! This summer, it’s all about handmade, unique, and seriously comfortable tutu fashion.
And you know what? I've found some absolute gems right here in Salford! It seems like the entire city is embracing the knitting trend, and my heart is bursting with excitement (and maybe a little bit of pink glitter).
Knitted Magic in the Making:
My first stop on this tutu-licious journey was at the “The Yarn Shoppe” on Chapel Street. This place is a haven for all things yarn, with every colour of the rainbow (including the pinkest pinks you’ve ever seen!), plus a helpful owner, Sarah, who knows her wools inside out. I spent hours browsing the shelves, my mind already overflowing with ideas for custom designs.
The second you step into Sarah's shop, it feels like stepping into a vintage fairytale, with rainbow yarn hanging like shimmering threads from the ceiling. There's a whole section dedicated to natural fibres, perfect for breathable and sustainable tutus, and another brimming with shimmering metallic yarns for a touch of ✨ sparkle ✨.
With the help of Sarah, I finally settled on some light and airy bamboo yarn. It feels like silk on your skin – and the perfect summer fabric for twirling. Sarah is teaching a beginner knitting class in the coming weeks, so I signed myself up right away! My new knitting project is officially a pink ombre tutu, the colour gradually transitioning from bubblegum pink at the top to soft coral at the bottom. I'm so excited!
A Celebration of Craftsmanship:
Next up on my tutu quest was a visit to the "Creative Collective" in Salford Quays. This hidden gem is a bustling community space filled with artists, makers, and creators. I wandered past a colourful display of pottery, handmade jewellery, and the most beautiful knitted accessories I've ever seen.
I met Amelia, a talented knitwear artist with a passion for all things tutus. Amelia explained to me the concept of “ballet-inspired” fashion. It's about designing pieces that combine the fluidity of ballet movement with the elegance of knitwear. Her own creations were simply breathtaking. Imagine a tutu made entirely of fine crochet lace, or a soft knit leotard that feels like a second skin.
Amelia even showed me her latest collection – a set of tutus and leotards made entirely from recycled materials! Each piece was unique, using salvaged fabrics and upcycled materials. It felt good to know I could be supporting ethical fashion, while also looking tutu-fabulous!
A Workshop of Tutu Dreams:
Inspired by the vibrant creative scene in Salford, I decided to host a tutu-knitting workshop! I’ve got an exciting space all lined up – a converted vintage double-decker bus in the heart of the city centre!
We’ll be using yarn sourced from Sarah’s shop, plus plenty of inspiration from Amelia’s recycled masterpieces. Think custom designs, rainbow colours, and plenty of pink. Participants can bring their own pre-existing tutus for a quick knit revamp, or learn how to make their very own. I’m really looking forward to seeing what these talented dancers create – it’s going to be a tutu-tastic explosion of colour!
More Than Just a Dance Outfit:
Let's be honest, a knitted tutu isn't just about ballet. It’s a statement piece, a celebration of creativity and individuality. Wear it to a picnic, a summer festival, a special event, or just for a day of fun in the sunshine. This is more than just a dance outfit – it’s a piece of personal expression.
As the sun shines and the days get longer, the knitted tutu is here to stay. Let’s celebrate creativity, individuality, and a whole lot of fun. This summer, we’re rocking our handmade tutus with pride!
Don’t forget to follow along on Instagram for updates on the workshop, tutu-knitting inspiration, and lots of #tutuwool #tutuknitted pictures. And if you’re ever in Salford, pop in and see Sarah and Amelia!
Let’s bring a little bit of pink magic into our summer wardrobe. What are you waiting for? Let's knit a tutu!
