When I make beaded appliques, I like to mix in a rhinestone chain. 🙂 Rhinestone chains are great for defining the shape of the applique, which is a big plus for dance costumes. (Vague shapes don’t show well on stage.) And of course, rhinestone chains add lots of shine, and they are much quicker to sew on than… Read more →
In my last video, you saw how to make a heart shaped beaded applique. And this week I want to share with you this paisley beaded applique. I love paisley designs, and they look great on costumes in every colour. Let’s get started! Download the free paisley patterns here! To make these paisley appliques, you need: Felt – to use… Read more →
A couple of months ago, I asked on Sparkly Belly’s FB group what everyone wanted to see on Sparkly Belly. And the most popular request was plus size costuming tips. So! Here are my take on plus size costuming. I focused on the 3 plus size costuming challenges I hear from Sparkly Belly readers most and used their words to… Read more →
A few months ago, I treated myself to a new phone – Samsung Galaxy S7. I wasn’t even going to get the latest & greatest (I was using Galaxy S2 at the time), but the store (and my fiance) convinced me into getting this smartphone. I must say, I’m so happy they did! The phone comes… Read more →
I like Princess Jasmine. Her typical look is not a floor length dress like other Disney princesses. She’s in rather simple harem pants, but she is still gorgeous and that’s what I find unique and attractive about her. And to me, the best part of her outfit is the sleeves. Her sleeves are so flowy, and simply romantic.I’ve always wanted… Read more →
The weather is getting warmer, and it’s time to think about costumes for summer performances! Or in you’re in the southern hemisphere, think about winter holiday performances 😉 Either way, now is a good time to start making costumes for the upcoming season. So in that spirit, I have 3 big announcements for you today. Announcement #1… Enrolment of the… Read more →
Here’s an honest disclaimer – This post contains some affiliate links. This means that if you click on the links and purchase products, I earn a small commission (no additional cost to you). The small commission I earn keeps all the Sparkly Belly tutorials free 🙂 No obligation, just an option. Thanks! Last week I showed you how to make… Read more →
Want to finally learn how to sew? And make your own costumes? And save money? If you said yes to any of the above, you are in the right place! 🙂 The #1 Costume Challenge I’ve been sharing my DIY belly dance costume tutorials for a while now, and during this time, I have been fortunate enough to get to… Read more →
Sewing on sequins one by one by hand takes time and patience. It is doable for making appliques or decorating costume bras and belts, but if you want to add a little sparkles on the hem of a circle skirt, you can easily be sewing 6m worth…. I don’t have the patience for it! 😛 So here’s a quick tip… Read more →
Alteration is a big part of belly dance costuming, and continuing from last week’s alteration project, I have one more example to show you. Last week I showed how I altered my beaded belt and made it shorter. In this week’s video, you’ll see how I changed the shoulder straps of the matching bra from over-the-shoulder style to criss-cross at… Read more →