Hey everyone, it's Emma here! 🙋♀️ You know me, I'm obsessed with ballet and all things tutu. And this summer, I've got a real passion project: knitting my own tutus! 🧵 It’s all about taking those delicate layers of tulle and turning them into something more unique, more sustainable, and more... well, just me.
From Classic to Cutting Edge
This summer, the ballet world is all about taking the traditional and making it your own. Think custom-knit leotards that hug your curves in colours inspired by a summer sunset. Think sparkly hand-knitted tulle that shimmers like the waves at sunset. That's where my heart lies! ✨
Worksop’s Secret Source for Tutu Wools
You might think I'm just dreaming, but Worksop, our very own town, has some incredible wool shops that are fueling this knit-tutu revolution! From super fine merino for the smoothest leotard to textured yarns that give your tutu that extra dimension, these shops have everything.
Here are my faves:
1. "Yarn Heaven": This shop is truly a haven! You'll find the most delicate, silky threads perfect for fine-gauge leotards and everything from cotton and acrylic to luxurious alpaca. Plus, they've got an amazing range of sparkly, iridescent yarns that make for truly dreamy tutus. They also offer beginner workshops to get you started, and the staff are really friendly and helpful!
2. "The Woolly Sheep": Don't let the name fool you, this place is anything but ordinary! They stock unusual, textured yarns that are perfect for adding a unique twist to your tutus. Think cables, crochet textures, and those gorgeous hand-dyed colours that add a pop of personality. The shop owner is an absolute treasure and her passion for all things yarn is contagious!
3. "The Fabric Emporium": This isn’t solely a yarn shop, but they have a hidden gem - a section dedicated to beautiful and unusual fabrics perfect for tulle and chiffon layers. I love it for finding that delicate, ethereal tulle to complement my knit pieces. They’re incredibly helpful with their knowledge of sewing and suggest amazing combinations for knit and tulle!
Knit-a-long:
And speaking of creating your own tutu masterpieces, I’m hosting a series of knitting workshops at my local community center! We'll be turning everyday yarns into stunning balletwear, learning the art of layering, and sharing some seriously fun design tips. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of crafting your own leotards and tutus, this is the time! It's about more than just making something with your hands; it's about making a statement about individuality, creativity, and the beautiful dance between fashion and function. You don’t have to be a professional knitter – everyone’s welcome!
"It’s All About the Details" – My Summer Style Diary
Okay, so enough about the yarn and into my current obsession: pastel pink! 😍 I've always loved this colour, and it’s perfect for summer. Imagine a delicate knitted leotard in a dusty rose, perfectly complemented by layers of shimmering pink tulle, the perfect combination for my summer choreography, "Enchanted Summer”.
My new tutu inspiration isn't just about the colours, it's about the details:
Scallops and fringes: Think graceful, hand-knitted lace edging that brings an ethereal vibe to any tutu.
Unique stitch patterns: Using different types of stitches creates texture and interest. My current obsession? Bobbles! They add a fun dimension, reminding me of bubbles popping in the summer breeze.
Upcycled elegance: I'm even experimenting with incorporating vintage ribbons and laces into my knit pieces to give them that truly special vintage charm.
Knitting into your choreography: Forget about restrictive tutus! Knitted layers allow for more freedom of movement. For my latest summer dance piece, "Under the Summer Sun," I designed a layered knit leotard that is all about flow and movement, inspired by the wild freedom of a summer meadow. It’s light and airy, making each leap feel effortless.
Summer Fabrics:
Forget stiff, itchy tutus. The latest trend? Lightweight, breathable, and eco-friendly materials.
Organic Cotton: I’m loving this for my leotard base layers. The breathable cotton is comfy to wear and looks amazing on stage.
Recycled Silk: I found some incredible ethically sourced silk that gives a silky sheen, making my tutu layers even more glamorous and soft against the skin.
Hemp Blend: Who needs plastic for that silky tulle effect when there’s eco-friendly hemp blend? It’s incredibly sustainable and keeps your body cool under the stage lights!
A Little Sparkle goes a long way
I'm all about a little sparkle, but not over the top. You don't need to drown yourself in glitter to have that magic feel. Just a touch of something special can elevate your look. My secret weapon? Hand-stitching sparkly sequins onto a few key areas of my leotards and tutu layers, adding a touch of glitter to those graceful movement points that will catch the light in the most magical way! ✨
Tutu Knitting and the Power of the DIY Dance
It's not just about making something beautiful; it's about owning your style and expressing yourself through creativity. It’s empowering! There's a magic in making your own dance wear - that moment when you finally finish a piece, and it fits like a glove. And to see how others are inspired by your own creation – well, that's the best reward of all.
This summer, let's rewrite the rules of dancewear. It’s time to step into our power and express our individual styles. It’s all about taking our creativity to the stage.
Want to join the #tutuknitted #tutuwool movement?
Here’s how:
1. Explore your local wool shops! Many yarn stores offer "tutu-inspiration" collections – discovering them will help your design ideas bloom. It’s fun to go and discover unusual textures and color combos.
2. Check out my tutorials online! 🎥 I’m launching a whole series of knitting and tutu-designing tutorials, perfect for anyone just getting started! (Find the links at my blog - you’ll see them on the #tutuknitted banner).
3. Share your own creations: Tag me on Instagram! (@emma.tutu.lover), use the #tutuknitted #tutuwool, and join this amazing community of dance-loving crafters!
See you at the ballet bar!
Emma
