DIY Double Layer Tutu Anklets: The Fastest & Easiest Method

Ankle jewelry adds a touch of whimsical charm to any outfit, and DIY anklets offer a fantastic way to personalize your style without breaking the bank. This guide focuses on creating adorable double-layer tutu anklets, perfect for adding a playful pop to your summer sandals or even elevating a simple pair of sneakers. Forget complicated techniques and endless hours of crafting; we’re focusing on speed and simplicity. These delightful anklets are surprisingly easy to make, even for complete beginners.

Forget fumbling with intricate knots and confusing patterns. This tutorial presents the absolute fastest and easiest method for crafting stunning double-layer tutu anklets. Get ready to unleash your inner artisan and create beautiful, unique accessories in minutes! Let's dive into the step-by-step process and learn how to make these delightful anklets.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Measuring tape
  • Scissors
  • Lighter
  • 1 1/2 inch and 7/8 inch ribbon
  • 3/4 inch elastic
  • Sewing machine
  • 6 inch tool (optional, safety pins can be used)
  • Clips (optional, safety pins can be used)
  • Fabric hot glue
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise young children when crafting. Small items like ribbon or elastic can pose a choking hazard.
  • Use sharp scissors carefully to avoid cuts. Keep scissors away from children when not in use.
  • Ensure the elastic is not too tight around the ankle to prevent discomfort or restricted blood flow. Adjust as needed for a comfortable fit.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Measure and Cut Materials

    • Measure 2 yards of ribbon for each anklet (4 yards total for two). Use the first piece as a guide to measure and cut a second piece of the same length for each anklet. Repeat for a second color.
    • Measure and cut two 5-inch pieces of elastic.
  2. Seal Ribbon Ends

    • Use a lighter to lightly burn the edges of all ribbon pieces to prevent fraying.
    Seal ribbon ends: Use a lighter to lightly burn the edges of all ribbon pieces to prevent fraying.
    Seal Ribbon Ends
  3. Sew First Layer

    • Fold the tool in half. Layer the first ribbon onto the tool, leaving space at the top for the elastic channel. Sew the ribbon and channel simultaneously.
    Sew the first layer: Fold the tool in half. Layer the first ribbon onto the tool, leaving space at the top for the elastic channel. Sew the ribbon and channel simultaneously.
    Sew First Layer
  4. Sew Second Layer

    • Add the second ribbon to the tool, leaving space between the layers. Sew both layers together.
    Sew the second layer: Add the second ribbon to the tool, leaving space between the layers. Sew both layers together.
    Sew Second Layer
  5. Trim Excess Tooling

    • Carefully cut away the excess tool from the back of the anklet, leaving space for the elastic channel.
    Trim excess tool: Carefully cut away the excess tool from the back of the anklet, leaving space for the elastic channel.
    Trim Excess Tooling
  6. Clean Up Anklets

    • Trim and burn any frayed edges to neaten the anklets.
    Clean up anklets: Trim and burn any frayed edges to neaten the anklets.
    Clean Up Anklets
  7. Attach Elastic

    • Attach clips to the ends of the elastic. Using a bodkin (or safety pin), thread the elastic through the channel created in step 4.
  8. Secure Elastic Ends

    • Once the elastic is through, use fabric hot glue to attach the two ends together. Press firmly for a few seconds to ensure they adhere properly.
    Secure elastic ends: Once the elastic is through, use fabric hot glue to attach the two ends together. Press firmly for a few seconds to ensure they adhere properly.Secure elastic ends: Once the elastic is through, use fabric hot glue to attach the two ends together. Press firmly for a few seconds to ensure they adhere properly.
    Secure Elastic Ends
  9. Finish and Neaten

    • Evenly distribute the ribbon and tool along the elastic, trimming any excess ribbon and burning the ends to prevent fraying.
    Finish and neaten: Evenly distribute the ribbon and tool along the elastic, trimming any excess ribbon and burning the ends to prevent fraying.
    Finish and Neaten

Read more: DIY Anklets: Easy Beaded Anklet Tutorial

Tips

  • Prepping materials beforehand makes the process much faster.
  • Using fabric hot glue is recommended for secure and long-lasting results. It's better than using regular hot glue for fabric.
  • Be cautious when using hot glue, as it can cause burns.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Tutu Lengths

Reason: Cutting the tulle strips for the two layers inconsistently leads to a lopsided anklet.
Solution: Measure and cut all tulle strips to the same length before assembling.

2. Too Tight or Too Loose Anklet

Reason: Incorrectly estimating the needed elastic length results in an anklet that's either too constricting or too loose.
Solution: Measure your ankle circumference and add extra elastic for comfortable stretching and tying.

FAQs

What materials do I need to make these double-layer tutu anklets?
You'll need two colors of tulle ribbon (or two spools of tulle cut into ribbons), elastic cord (thin and stretchy), scissors, and optionally, decorative beads or charms.
How do I ensure the anklets fit comfortably?
Measure your ankle before starting. Leave a little extra elastic length (about 1-2 inches) to allow for comfortable stretching and fastening. You can also use a safety pin to initially test the fit before permanently tying off the elastic.