Introduction: EZ-EL Wire Tutu & Shirt Step-by-Step Tutorial
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About: Electroluminescent Wire is an amazing technology. Working like a fluorescent light bulb in wire form, it can be applied to just about anything. The possibilities are endless; you can bend it, cut it, splice it…
Here is a skirt decked out with EL wire. It can be used for fun events like Halloween, a night dance performance, or a party. The EL wire is attached under each layers of tulle to give a groovy look. There are different colors to create a color scheme, and the inverter is attached to the elastic waste band inside so it is not visible. Overall, this project was fun to do and it's not high maintenance.
Enter coupon code INSTtutu at checkout for a discount!
Or if you prefer a video tutorial:
If you like tutorials like this, get more inspiration at http://www.ez-el.com/tutorials
Materials:
Scissors
Wire Cutters
U-Shape Needles
Translucent Thread
Green Tutu
10' El wire (3)
9v Inverter
X-Acto Knife
Black T-Shirt
4 way Splitter Cable
Enter coupon code INSTtutu at checkout for a discount!
Or if you prefer a video tutorial:
If you like tutorials like this, get more inspiration at http://www.ez-el.com/tutorials
Materials:
Scissors
Wire Cutters
U-Shape Needles
Translucent Thread
Green Tutu
10' El wire (3)
9v Inverter
X-Acto Knife
Black T-Shirt
4 way Splitter Cable
Step 1: Sewing the EL Wire Into the Skirt
Sew the EL wire under the 2nd layer of the tulle onto the elastic band. You will only need to sew the center of the loop about 3 inches apart. Repeat for the next color of el wire under the 4th layer of tulle.
{Things to consider: When tying the clear thread. Don't pull too hard on the thread because it will snap.}
{Things to consider: When tying the clear thread. Don't pull too hard on the thread because it will snap.}
Step 2: Make a Slit for the End of the EL Wire
As demonstrated in my video, you will need to make a slit that is big enough to put the end of the EL wire and output inside the elastic.
Don't make a huge slit, you want to make just enough room. When making the slit, make sure you stretch out the elastic to do so.
Don't make a huge slit, you want to make just enough room. When making the slit, make sure you stretch out the elastic to do so.
Step 3: Cut the Excess EL Wire
Using the wire cutter, cut the excess wire at the end once the EL wire is completely threaded through the slit. Make sure you cut it at a horizontal angle because if you don't the wire won't work (if it doesn't work just cut again and you should be good to go).
Step 4: Cap the End of the Cut EL Wire
Cap the ends of the EL wires after cutting them.
Step 5: Sewing EL Wire
Before sewing the EL Wire onto the shirt, use chalk to make an outline of the number. Make sure you double the layer so your number can be more visible.
Step 6: Powering the Wires
You will need a 4-way splitter cable in order to power all of your wires. Since we are using 3 different colors, this is the best solution for a 9V inverter. Connect and clip the 9V inverter onto the tutu or velcro to the shirt.
Step 7: Enjoy!
