Make and customize your own belly dancing belt.
The Middle Eastern art form of belly dance is a whirling series of hip shimmies, undulations and snakelike arm movements. Even more elaborate are the decorated, beaded costumes worn by belly dancers. Some dancers choose to make and customize their own costumes. A typical belly dance costume consists of a bra or corset, a flowing skirt, a weighted belt and accessories such as arm bands, toe rings and bracelets. The weighted belt is often decorated with coins or beads to create a jingling sound when the dancer shimmies her hips.
Instructions
1. Measure the circumference of your hips and record this figure. Cut a 9-inch-wide piece of pattern paper to match the length that is the measure of your hips plus 4 extra inches.
2. Place the cut pattern around your hips and secure in the front with pins or tape. Mark the center front and the center back for future reference.
3. Pin and dart the pattern closed at the side of your hips and twice in back where it doesn't lay flat against your body.
4. Remove the pattern and remove the pins and tape. You should be able to see the curvature of the pattern. Fold it in half to make sure it is symmetrical on both sides.
5. Cut a curve in the pattern along the unfolded darts. The curve in the pattern will allow the belt to sit low on the hips without falling off. The larger your hips are, the larger the curve in the pattern will be.
6. Use the pattern to cut out a piece of thick felt. Cut out additional layers of chiffon, tulle or any other fabric you choose to use. You can match your belt to a belly-dancing costume or use colors and fabrics that you like.
7. Sew or glue the fabric layers to the felt base.
8. Customize the belt using coins, beads or sequins. Attach the adornments using glue or a needle and thread.
