Burlesque/Bellydance Headdress – How-to

Costuming is rarely something you can scrimp on and still look wonderful, unless you are VERY clever. I have a gig coming up and wanted a new headdress. Whilst its easy to request someone else make it I thought I would see what I could come up with.

I am lucky to be somewhat of a hoarder when it comes to pretty things like hair flowers and bits of bling. Its normally stored in pots and sorted by their colours.

With my trusty mannequin head Toyah, I set about creating my new headdress.

If you want to have a go here is a guide:

You will need:

1. Hot glue gun and glue. (careful this will get hot n messy if you dont take care).
2. Pilers.
3. Scissors.
4. Headband. A wide solid one as opposed to an elastic one works best. I got mine from Claire’s Accessories or online sometimes. Fabric coated is best due to helping with the glue.
5. Rhinestones/bits of bling.
6. Hair flowers (the more the merrier).
7. Pins (like the ones you use on material).
8. Mannequin head. Optional but recommended. Hobby shops or online.
9. Hair combs.

Step 1

Place your mannequin head on a level surface with plenty of room about it to work around. Put the head band on it ensuring it is level. Please note mine came with rhinestones already on it.

Step 2

Using the pins start placing the bling on the headband. The pins allow you to move the pieces until you are satisfied. I am using some Indian jewellery I had left over. It is available cheaply online but be warned the metal loops that often fix it together can be very weak and so may need replacing. Use the pliers to ‘snip’ bits off the bling if necessary.

When you are ready,using the hot glue fix into place. Too much glue can be detrimental to the overall look and a bugger to cover up so be careful. Be sure to remove all holding pins too.

Step 3

Start placing the hair flowers onto the headband using the pins to position until satisfied. It is worth remembering to balance it otherwise it will be too heavy on one side and may fall off.

Step 4

When you are happy with the positioning of the adornments start to glue them into place. Be sure to remove the pins and keep the balance of weight. Be sure to hide the gluing points. Snip off any extra pieces you dont need or dont work with the look.

Step 5

Start applying the rhinestones (or feathers or whatever you have) to complete the look.

Step 6

The final piece is to fix two combs onto the inside of the band facing to the back to help fix the headband onto the hair.

ENJOY!

I worked out that this only cost me £20 in additional materials to make. Not too shabby! I have made a few of these now. The cost depends on what you add and how much. Just remember to keep the weight balanced to stop it slipping.

I will make loads more no doubt. I have sold a few on.

Perfect for burlesque/bellydance or about town.

Love

Khandie

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