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Making Costumes: Turkish Edging

© Shira

The two belly dance costumes that I bought in the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, Turkey in July 2000 both had an edging made of cup sequins and rocaille beads along the edges of the skirt and veil. Here are instructions on how you can put this quick-and-easy trim on your own costumes.

This edging is so easy that even someone who is new to sewing can quickly master it!

First, a look at a Turkish costume that uses this trim:

I paid $450 U.S. for the complete set of bra, belt, pair of wristbands, neckpiece, headband, skirt, and veil. The skirt and veil were both made of double georgette fabric, and edged with this trim. Practicing in the costume, I found the skirt to be just a little too skimpy, so I made myself a pair of georgette pantaloons with slits up the front center of each leg. I used this edging along those slits to make the pantaloons blend in with the rest of the outfit.

Would you like to get a better look at this red Turkish costume? Click here to see it from several angles!

And now, on to instructions on how you too can decorate your costumes with this edging!

Supplies Required

• Rocaille Beads. Size 8 or 10 (this is the size sold in the plastic packages labelled as rocaille beads in most craft stores). Look for these in craft stores such as Michael's, or the craft departments of fabric stores. They're also sold in stores that specialize in beads.
• Sequins. My costumes were made using the faceted cup-shaped sequins, 8 mm in diameter. I suppose you could use the flat style or a different size if you wanted to, but I really liked the effect of the cup-style and 8 mm size, so I encourage you to use the same. Look for these in craft stores such as Michael's, or the craft departments of fabric stores.
• Thin Needle. It needs to fit through those tiny beads!
• Thread. Any thread will do, but for strength you might consider nylon beading thread, called filo.
• Beeswax.This is optional. Its purpose is to prevent your thread from tangling and knotting. If you don't sew very much it's a good idea to use this because it'll make your thread easier to manage. It is sold in the "Notions" department of fabric stores--ask a store employee to help you find it.

How To Do It

Cut a length of thread no longer than about 24 inches. Thread the needle. If you choose to use beeswax to prevent tangles, run your thread across the edge of the cake to lightly coat it. Knot the end of your thread.

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