When I create a costume, I always think about making matching accessories. That’s because matching accessories really complete the overall look. Often they turn a “homemade” looking costume into a professional one. So in this video, you’ll see how to make this pretty drape armband that’s super easy to make, and you can make one to match any costume. Let’s… Read more →
I have to admit, I’ve been putting off making a 25-yard skirt for a long time even though I love the skirt and many people requested this tutorial. That’s because this skirt has too many hurdles: Lots of sewing Lots of fabric = expensive Too much calculating and planning (how many tiers? how long for each tier?) You need a… Read more →
As a belly dancer, you can’t have enough hip scarves. They are great for practice and of course for easy costuming! So today I want to go back to basics and create this cute and simple fringe hip scarf. Let’s get started! 😀 Click here to sign up for my FREE email course Belly Dance Costume Making 101! 😀 To… Read more →
Earlier this year, I shared my Plus Size Belly Dance Costuming Guide which became a very popular post on Sparkly Belly. 🙂 One of the tips I included there was what I call the “Belly Drape” – It’s a design created with fabric that drapes from the bra and provides light coverage over the top of your torso. It’s really easy… Read more →
As a belly dancer, it’s important to wear a cover-up before and after performance so you make a great impact when you’re in your magical costume on stage. 🙂 I did a Caftan inspired cover-up tutorial a while ago, but I wanted to make one that opens in the front. It makes more sense especially when you are wearing a… Read more →
A few months ago I did a review on Swarovski’s shimmer effect rhinestone series, which was initially introduced to me by Alisa at Har-Man Importing. And last month, she sent me another new line of rhinestones, called Star Bright. Thanks, Alisa! Sign up for the free course & start making costumes! Star Bright is an Austrian Crystal collection, and Har-Man… Read more →
I picked up super cute spandex fabric when I visited the garment district in NYC last year with Mahin, and I knew I had to make a playful baladi dress out of it. I did a baladi dress tutorial before with a keyhole neckline, but this time I wanted to make one to pair with a Dina style bra. So… Read more →
Since I launched my latest costume making course, Aurora Convertible Skirt Premium Course, I received questions about what to wear under this type of skirt that has cutouts. Click the image to check out how to make this skirt! Generally, you can either wear nude colour underwear that doesn’t show, or some dancers wear boy shorts in nude colour. For… Read more →
Some tools can make a world of difference 🙂 Today I want to share with you 3 of my favourite sewing tools that made a world of difference to my costume making. After I met these tools, costume making has become easier, faster and more fun! 😀 If you are looking to upgrade your sewing tools, I highly recommend these. I’ll include… Read more →
I like belly dance costumes that have decorations sewn onto the skirt. 🙂 For this type of skirt, you don’t have to wear a separate belt, which can be more comfortable for some of you. At least for me – less opportunity for costume malfunction 😉 But how do you sew decorations to the stretch waistband of… Read more →