If you have ever seen a competition leotard and wondered how that level of detail is created, this article is for you. At Tanitex, we have spent years perfecting a proprietary technique that combines pattern making, lycra painting, and rhinestone application to achieve unique and spectacular leotards.
This design starts with a dark base with light-colored applied decoration, a very powerful technique that allows for spectacular visual effects without losing cleanliness or fit.
🖤 1. Rhythmic gymnastics leotard base
We start with a base leotard made of black lycra, already cut from a good pattern (key for the entire design to work later). A well-graded pattern is the difference between a leotard that fits perfectly and one that doesn't work in movement.
- Front
- Back
- Sleeves
👉 IMPORTANT: Everything is worked in separate pieces, never assembled yet.
✂️ 2. Preparing the decoration
The decoration is created on a lighter-colored lycra. This color combination is what gives depth and contrast to the final design:
- White lycra
- Neon lycra (yellow, green, etc.)
This is where we transfer the design from the leotard pattern to the fabric.
✔ We draw the shapes
✔ We cut each piece with precision
✔ We respect directions and symmetries
🧵 3. Application on the black base
Once we have all the decoration pieces prepared:
- We sew them onto the black lycra
- Always piece by piece
- Maintaining continuity between the front, back, and sleeves
💡 This step is key in the construction of the leotard:
👉 The aesthetics of the leotard are built here
👉 If this fails, the design does not "flow" when assembled
🎨 4. Setting for painting
Before applying the paint for lycra, it is essential to properly set each piece:
- We place each piece on a cork base
- We secure them with pins
- We stretch the lycra well
⚠️ This is FUNDAMENTAL so that the paint does not deform the fabric and the result is clean and professional.
🌈 5. Painting and shading on lycra
This is where the leotard comes to life. We use specific painting techniques for stretch fabrics:
- Neon paint special for lycra
- Fine brush or airbrush depending on the area
- We start with soft tones → then we intensify
✔ Shading
✔ Color transitions
✔ Visual integration between pieces
💡 This is where the design gains life, volume, and a unique personality.
💎 6. Rhinestones on leotards: the final finish
Rhinestones are the touch that transforms a pretty leotard into a competition leotard. Once dry:
- We apply crystals strategically
- We play with sizes (SS16, SS20, SS30…)
- We reinforce key areas: neckline, center, lines of movement
✨ Result: shine, depth, and a theatrical effect that makes the difference in competition.
Do you want to learn how to create rhythmic gymnastics leotards like this from scratch? At Tanitex you will find the best leotard patterns and grading to start with a professional base. 🎽