🎨 Have you ever had this worry: the color of the ballet leotard is too light, easy to see through, or the wrapping and support are not enough? Don't worry, DIY lining is here to save you! Today, taking Yumiko's Micah leotard as an example, I will teach you how to add lining to make your performance more perfect!
Issues to consider before adding lining
Will it become tighter after adding lining?
If your leotard is already tight, adding lining may make you feel tighter. At this time, you can consider making a half lining, or choosing a fabric with good elasticity. However, if the leotard is the right size, the wrapping will be stronger after adding lining, and the visual effect will be better!
What color lining to choose?
For light-colored leotards, white lining or lining of the same color is preferred, especially white lining will make the leotard color brighter! However, the anti-see-through property of white lining is slightly poor. If you mind this, you can consider skin-colored lining. However, even white lining is much better than without lining!
Choice of lining fabric
Yumiko's nylon fabric is 80% nylon + 20% spandex. I bought a piece of the same fabric, which has a good touch and elasticity! In terms of size, a piece of 45cm x 150cm fabric can make 2 full linings + 1 half lining (matching the size M body suit). If you don't leave margins in advance, it's just enough for three full linings.
Sewing lining (no sewing machine version)
First, lay the lining fabric flat on the body suit, leaving enough margins around, and then start sewing after fixing the edges and corners. I sewed along the inner edge of the body suit to prevent the thread from showing from the outside. The simplest straight seam will do, but be careful to stretch it after sewing a few times to loosen the stitches, so as not to affect the overall elasticity. During the sewing process, you can adjust the body suit and lining at any time to ensure that they are always laid flat and aligned. After sewing one edge, cut off the excess fabric. Like Micah, the original Yumiko lining is also stitched up and down. I was lazy and sewed it into one piece, and it felt fine!
Tips
It may become tight after adding lining, so be sure to try it on in advance to ensure comfort.
When choosing colors, both white lining and skin-colored lining can be considered. It doesn't matter if the anti-see-through property is slightly poor. After all, it is better to add lining than not.
When sewing, pay attention to the tightness of the stitches to avoid affecting the overall elasticity.
I hope these tips can help you and make your ballet performance more perfect! 💪✨