How to Sew a Dog Tutu

A tutu is an easy costume to make for a dog.

Ballerinas, fairies and princesses are trendy ways to dress up a pooch for Halloween, a photo shoot or any other day. One costume that is extremely uncomplicated and inexpensive to make is a tutu for a dog. The tutu, with the right accessories, can complete other costumes. Make the tutu out of any color of tulle to transform the look from glamorous to Gothic.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• 1-inch-thick elastic
• Tulle
• Scissors
• Sewing machine
• Thread

Instructions

1. Measure the circumference of the dog’s body where you want to place the tutu. Measure the distance from the stomach to the ground.

2. Cut a strip of elastic 1 inch smaller than the waist measurement.

3. Cut 2-inch-wide strips of tulle twice as long as the desired finished length. Cut about 30 for a small dog and up to 60 for a larger dog.

4. Fit the strips over the elastic like a sandwich. Pin the strips in place down the length of the elastic. Leave a ½-inch blank spot on either side of the elastic.

5. Sew the two sides of the tulle strips together just under the elastic band, securing the tulle in place around the elastic.

6. Overlap the bare ends of elastic and sew the elastic together into a circle. Add one final strip of tulle over the joint.

7. Put the tutu on the dog and adjust the size as necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the strips of tulle shorter than the distance from the dog's stomach to the ground to avoid tripping the dog.

References

• Tuscany Design; Dog Costume – Ballerina Tutu; September 2010
• Make and Build Dog Stuff; Doggy Tutu; Teresa