Have you ever seen a competition leotard and wondered how that level of detail is achieved? At Tanitex, we have spent years perfecting our own technique that combines pattern-making, lycra painting and rhinestone application to create unique, show-stopping leotards.
This design starts from a dark base with light-colored applied decoration — a very powerful technique that achieves spectacular visual effects without losing cleanliness or fit.
🖤 1. The rhythmic gymnastics leotard base
We start with a base leotard in black lycra, already cut from a professional pattern. A well-scaled 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 leotard decoration
The decoration is created on lighter lycra. This color combination is what gives depth and contrast to the final design:
- White lycra
- Fluorescent lycra (yellow, green, etc.)
This is where we transfer the design from the leotard pattern onto the fabric.
✔ We draw the shapes
✔ We cut each piece with precision
✔ We respect directions and symmetries
🧵 3. Application onto the black base
Once we have all the decoration pieces ready:
- We sew them onto the black lycra
- Always piece by piece
- Maintaining continuity between front, back and sleeves
💡 This step is key in leotard construction:
👉 This is where the leotard’s aesthetic is built
👉 If this fails, the design won’t “flow” when assembled
🎨 4. Securing for painting
Before applying lycra paint, it is essential to properly secure each piece:
- We place each piece on a cork base
- Pin it down firmly
- Stretch the lycra well
⚠️ This is FUNDAMENTAL to prevent the paint from distorting the fabric and to achieve a clean, professional result.
🌈 5. Painting and blending on lycra
This is where the leotard comes to life. We use specific painting techniques for stretch fabrics:
- Fluorescent paint specially formulated for lycra
- Fine brush or airbrush depending on the area
- We start with soft tones → then intensify
✔ Blending
✔ 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 beautiful leotard into a true competition leotard. Once dry:
- We apply crystals strategically
- We play with sizes (SS16, SS20, SS30…)
- We reinforce key areas: neckline, center, movement lines
✨ Result: sparkle, depth and stage effect that makes a real difference in competition.
Want to learn how to create rhythmic gymnastics leotards like this from scratch? At Tanitex you will find the best leotard patterns and sizing guides to start with a professional base. 🎽