Illusion Tulle

What is illusion tulle?

• Fine, but very strong. A light hexagon-weave tulle that's much stronger than it looks.
• Soft, not stiff. Unlike most tulles, it has no stiffness, so it drapes softly against the body.
• Made to disappear. It's the tulle behind illusion necklines, sleeves and backs, where lace looks as if it's floating on the skin.
• Two versions. Nylon illusion tulle, and a recycled illusion tulle made from 100% recycled polyester.

Which soft tulle?

Our softer tulles and mesh, side by side.

What to make with it

• Illusion necklines, sleeves and backs
• A base for lace appliqué and motifs
• Soft skirts and overlays
• Bridal and evening gowns

Cutting

• Cut on a large, clean table, on top of a sheet of paper so the fine net doesn't shift.
• Use pattern weights rather than pins, and sharp scissors or a rotary cutter.
• For illusion panels, cut a little extra all round and trim once the lace is in place.

Sewing

• Use a fresh, fine needle (size 60 or 70) and a fine thread in a matching colour. Test on a scrap first.
• Sew with tissue paper underneath if the net catches, then gently tear it away.
• To appliqué lace, tack the motifs in place by hand, then sew around their edges with small, hidden stitches. Trim the tulle away from behind the lace only where you want it to show through.
• For an illusion neckline, try the bodice on with the tulle tacked in place before you finish it, so it sits smoothly.

Edges

Tulle doesn't fray, so you can leave edges raw. For a neat finish on necklines and armholes, bind them with a narrow strip of tulle or fine bias binding.

Pressing

Use the lowest setting, with no steam, through a pressing cloth: a hot iron can melt it. A handheld steamer held at a distance is a gentle way to relax creases. Test on a scrap first.

Questions