For decades, brides have drifted down the aisle in a romantic cloud of tulle, and prom girls—not to mention debutantes—have worn ladylike dresses with fluffy net skirts. Tulle skirts are classic for dressing up, and now they’re having a high-fashion moment.

Learn to build a full, fluffy tulle skirt in the color and silhouette you prefer, with materials you can purchase affordably online or from an independent or chain fabric store. I’ll show you how to cut the tulle panels and how to assemble the skirt.

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Tulle school
Tulle is a sheer, net fabric. It’s made in a range of fibers, from silk to cotton to synthetics, but nylon is the most readily available, as well as the most affordable. You’ll find it in a wide variety of colors and widths.

For the full, light skirts shown, stick with a fine, soft tulle. Other net fabrics don’t offer the right amount of body. Nylon net and crinoline are much stiffer and scratchier than tulle. They’re useful for underlining full skirts, or for petticoats.

To minimize tulle’s transparency, plan to use several layers. They can be the same color, or they can be different hues to create a unique effect. Experiment for the look you want.

Try two styles
For a floor-length version with a sweeping hem, follow the basic directions—this style is perfect for a prom dress or wedding gown. You also can make a shorter, unlined, bell-shaped skirt with a slimmer line through the hip. Dress it up with a fancy top, or style it with leggings and a cardigan for casual elegance.

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Calculate the yardage

The amount of fabric needed is based on the desired number of tulle layers. Each layer comprises four panels that are the width…