Tutu nets and Tulles

Types of Tulle for Dance Costumes

We offer different tulle fabric material types for various dance costume needs:

• Stiff tulle (27 gsm): This is the lightest weight recommended for proper ballet tutus. It’s ideal for upper layers of tutus, providing structure without excessive weight.
• Super stiff tulle (50 gsm): This heavier net is excellent for creating supportive base layers in tutus. It’s particularly useful for professional tutus that need to withstand frequent, rigorous use.
• Italian net (40-60 Denier): Made from polypropylene, this lightweight yet resilient tulle is a popular choice for tutus. It requires different handling techniques compared to English nets but can create beautiful, professional results.
• Soft tulle: While not typically used for classical tutus, soft tulle is great for romantic tutus, overlays, and contemporary dance costumes.

Tulle for Different Dance Styles

Tulle usage varies across dance styles and costume types:

• Classical Ballet: Stiff and super stiff tulle are essential for creating the iconic pancake tutu.
• Romantic Ballet: Softer tulle is often used for romantic tutus, creating a flowing, ethereal effect.
• Contemporary Dance: A mix of stiff and soft tulle can be used to create interesting textures and movements in contemporary dance costumes.
• Character Dances: Depending on the character and style, a range of tulle types might be used.

Tips for Working with Tulle

When creating costumes with tulle fabric, consider these tips:

• Be mindful of steaming: Over-steaming can remove the stiffening properties of the tulle.
• Consider layering techniques: Combining different weights of tulle can help achieve the desired stiffness and shape.
• Adapt to the tulle type: Different types of tulle require different handling.
• Choose the right tulle for the job: Consider the purpose of the tutu when selecting your tulle weight and type.

Caring for Tulle Costumes

To maintain your tulle dance creations:

• Store in a dry environment to prevent the net from softening.
• Handle professional tutus with care, as they often face more wear and tear.
• Clean according to the specific tulle type’s requirements.
• Avoid crushing or compressing tutus during storage to maintain their shape.

FAQs

What is tutu netting called?

Tutu netting is often referred to as tulle or net fabric. In the dance world, you might hear terms like ‘English net’ or ‘Italian net’. These refer to different types of tulle used specifically for making tutus.

What is the difference between tutu and tulle?

Tulle is the fabric used to make tutus. It’s a lightweight, fine mesh material that comes in various stiffnesses and weights. A tutu, on the other hand, is the finished skirt or dress made primarily from tulle.

What material is a tutu made of?

Tutus are primarily made from tulle or net fabric, but the specific type can vary. Classical tutus often use stiff nylon or polyester net, typically around 27 gsm (grams per square metre) or heavier.

What is the difference between tulle and netting?

While both are mesh fabrics, tulle typically has a finer, softer texture, while netting is often stiffer with a more open weave. In tutu making, ‘net’ often refers to stiffer types of tulle specifically designed for dance costumes.

Why is tulle so expensive?

High-quality tulle for dance costumes can be expensive due to several factors. The manufacturing process is specialised, especially for stiffer nets used in tutus. The materials used, such as nylon or polypropylene, contribute to the cost.