Tutus are skirts worn by ballerinas in classical ballet. It allows the full length of a dancer's legs to be visible while retaining the elegance and shimmer of a full skirt. Professionally built tutus should be designed to retain their rigidity throughout movement, but some forms of will need a little bit of help. Stiffening the soft, netted material called tulle will be the ideal way to create the angular effect of the tutu.

Dampen the tutu material with a little water in a spray bottle. Spray the tutu skirt with just enough water to allow the material to be slightly damp.

  • Tutus are skirts worn by ballerinas in classical ballet.
  • Spray the tutu skirt with just enough water to allow the material to be slightly damp.

Spray the tutu material with the spray starch, making an even layer over all of the fabric. Be careful not to swamp the material in the starch material. Ideally, the starch should create a damp veil over the tutu tulle.

Hang the tutu upside down on a hanger. Use the material at the crotch of the tutu and place a pinch of fabric inside two clothespins. Attach the clothespins to the hanger. Allow the tutu to dry completely before removing it from the hanger. The starch should stiffen the fabric, and the hanging will ensure the fabric stays straight.

TIP

Buy spray starch that works well with sensitive fabrics. Never wash a tutu in hot water, as this will make the cloth sag.