Frequently Asked Questions

Do you only make Tutus?

Despite the name, I make all types of dance costumes. Check out the gallery for examples of previous work.

Do you do alterations?

Yes, I can cover most things. Making contact to talk about your needs is the best place to start. Sometimes I need to see things to be able to make suggestions. However if you have had a costume made by a local maker I strongly suggest that you get in touch with them first. This is partly because each person will construct a costume in a slightly different order. Knowing how you put something together makes it easier to know how to fix any issues. It is also a mark of respect to my fellow local costume makers and their work.

I just want something tiny done. Will it cost much?

I have a minimum labour time of 1 hour. Plus materials used.

I have a photo of a Jazz costume. Can you make it in a different colour?

Out of respect for other costume makers I do not directly copy others work, unless it is something that is out of stock and is fitting into a group of costumes. After all, why would you want something that someone else has. Think about what it is that you really like about that costume, and others. Combining those elements helps us to come up with something more unique to your dancer.

How should I store my costume?

There are multiple ways to store costumes and generally hanging them up works best. However, if your costume has a lot of weight, or a large amount of stonework that can get caught in other fabrics then laying it flat with protective tissue paper can be effective too. Tutus should be stored flat in a tutu bag. I find the best way is upside down so that the top layer of the skirt is on the hard surface. This allows the net to rest without any pressure.

How do I wash my costume?

Generally costumes are covered in stones and other embellishments that mean conventional washing is not recommended. Sard Soap is found in most supermarkets and is amazing for getting out stains and smells. Moisten a colour fast rag or face cloth and rub some soap onto it. Gently massage on the affected fabric and carefully rinse this section only. Generally recommended for crutch areas. Dry in the shade, lying flat. Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions or concerns before any spot cleaning.

What happens if something changes and I don’t need the space I booked?

Firstly, thank for being organised and booking ahead. Things don’t always go according to plan, people get busy, dances are not started yet, or life just gets in the way. No problem. You can choose to shift the booking to the next available slot (this could be up to 6 months away) or drop the booking entirely. Often there is a way to work around and discussing this together is the best way to move forward.

Do you just make bases?

No, at this stage the service is full, which includes all base, lace, and stoning work. Costumes are required to leave ‘stage ready’ which means stones added if that is required for the costume. Discussing your needs and budget fully helps to define this early.

Can I pay off my costume?

Of course. I know first hand how expensive it is to have a dancer. The costing given to you during the design process helps you to know what to allow for. You are welcome to make payments as you can. These are tracked and added to your final invoice.

Do the Tutus have hoops?

This is dependent on many factors. Whether the tutu is a stretch or traditional bodice, how heavy the embellishments will be on the skirt, how many layers of skirt there are etc. all factor into a hoop being required. This is discussed as part of the design and a hoop casing is often added for future proofing the tutu.

I want a headpiece to match, is this possible?

Absolutely. Tiaras, flowers, and other head pieces can be made to match any costume.