See-through fabrics are everywhere, it's a trend you can't ignore this summer. But volume is also extra present this season, and what better fabric to combine these two trends than tulle? We all know tulle from the typical ballet outfits and maybe fancy dress parties, but this season it is quietly creeping into your everyday wardrobe ???? Play with volume and transparency and take your me-made outfits to the next level.
Here are some tips and tricks to get started and achieve great results.
1. FRENCH SEAMS
Tulle doesn't fray and so you don't need to overlock (hooray!). But then why not use a regular seam? You can, but you will soon realise that tulle can be quite prickly and therefore you do want neatly finished seams along the inside. French seams are your best friend here.
2. BIAS TAPE TO THE RESCUE!
Finishing seams with bias tape is a great option. You can opt for a ready-made bias that you buy from your fabric shop, these usually come in a variety of colours and even different fabrics. For example, how about a shiny satin as a luxurious finish ???? Or of course you can make your own.
3. LONG LIVE THE ROTARTY CUTTER
No way, no hemming needed? True story! Use a rotary cutter to get a neat finish on the edges, then just leave them. No jagged edges with your scissors, with this practical tool that is completely a thing of the past.
4. JERSEY NEEDLE
You might not have known it, but tulle is a kind of knit fabric. So it follows that a jersey needle is also handy. This needle has a blunt tip, so it easily pushes through the fabric and doesn't pierce the fibres (= no laddering).
5. LONGER STITCH LENGTH
To sew tulle, adjust the stitch length to a longer length and sew at a slow and slower pace. If the stitch length is too short, your seam may tear more easily. Test your stitch on a scrap piece of fabric before starting your masterpiece. Is the result not 100% what you are looking for? Then you can try using a narrow zigzag stitch.
Keen to make your tulle creation? Here are our favourites to make in tulle: Nyla, Zinnia, Vinny, Eza, Nikka and Judy!
Be sure to share your design afterwards under the 'Your creations' tab or share them on Instagram with #fibremood. We can't wait to see the results!
