Thread: Belt Building - Help?

I want to build a hip belt with a rigid structure so it can have a definite shape rather than a basic "band" style. I'm a bit curvier than average and want to mimic my hipline and do an off-center "V" or notch in the front. Something like this:

Any suggestions?

It looks like that one (pretty!) closes where the notch is, so the top borders of the ends of the belt would angle downwards. To make the belt conform to your body, you will need to put darts in it. I'm a primitive sewer, but was able to successfully enough sew darts using online tutorials like this one Sewing Basics: How to Make a Dart: How to Sew | eHow.com.
Shira has some nice articles on making a fitted belt on her website Ask the Belly Dance Costume Goddess: Fitting a Belt
and
Ask the Belly Dance Costume Goddess: Making a Belt Pattern

2 layers of pellon., then cover with fabric. i sew/sell costumes, thats how i start.

hmmm, have never used a dart...a slight gathering thread on one once...thanks for that !

If you're worried about getting the shape right, you can make a pattern with sturdy paper first and see how it will fit to your hips. I make sure my belts have a nice curve to the shape to make sure they'll fit.
I usually make my belts by sewing two pieces of fabric (with fusible thick interfacing) right sides together. I'll trim, zigzag, and then flip the belt right-side-out.

What kind of fabric do you use?

I always use cotton or cotton blend on the inside layer so the belt has some grip and won't slide around over silky skirts and pants. (I sometimes use old khaki material on the inside because it is very sturdy.) The outside layer is usually something with cotton in it, but I've used satin on the outside.

the easiest way to say everything would be: get this bookhttp://www.shira.net/books/breviews/cg3-brabelt.htm
^_~
you definitely want to shape it with darts or seams. otherwise, if you are more curvy as you say, you get the muffin-top-over-a-can-of-tuna look.