Intro to Bum Rolls

I know it sounds totally silly, but bum rolls are the best. I do not profess to know the whole history and such of them, but they are basically used to give your skirt some oomph.

For example, here is my behind without a bum roll.

And here it is with a bum roll.

It's like an old-school booty-pop.

For any sort of costume or skirt that requires a bit of scaffolding around the mid-section, they are the way to go. No need to make a complicated bustle skirt when you can tuck a bum roll under a pleated or gathered skirt for much the same effect, and much less hassle.

Even if you have the skill, time, and energy to make a full bustle skirt, a bum roll will still give it that extra pop that the style demands.

Best part is, they are crazy easy to make.

You will need:

• a few yards or scrap fabric (or 2-3 old t-shirts)
• scissors
• a needle and thread
• ribbon or string

You can make these a few different sizes and such, but the method remains the same. The one I am wearing wraps from the front of my hips around, with only a small section missing in the front, across my stomach. I wear it under Renaissance-style costumes. You can also make these so they just sit directly above your bottom, to go for a more Victorian look. They can be as large or small as you want.

Step one: Measure how long you want your bum roll to be.

Step two: Fold 2/3 (or 2 of your t-shirts) to this length.

Step three: Fold the remaining 1/3 so it is about 4 inches shorter. Place it on top of the longer fabric, in the center.

Step four: Roll all of your fabric together, as tight as you can, and pin in place.

Step five: Hand sew along this line, with doubled thread for strength. **It does not matter if your stitches are pretty, no one will see them.**

Step six: Sew a length of ribbon onto each end, long enough that you can tie the roll just below your waist.

Step seven: Wear and enjoy!