How to Make a Weight Belt for Belly Dancing
- 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.
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