Tail without stretchy fabric?

[skarla]

Hey guys :)

So I found this fabric that I'm absolutely in love with, it has sequins on it and it looks just like scales. I really want to make a tail out of it but it isn't stretchy, so I was wondering if having a zip down the back would work? I think that it would be easy to hide with a dorsal fin down each side of the zip. The fluke won't be made out of the sequinned fabric.

Thanks :D

[Echidna]

There are plenty of tails which are done with a zipper down the back.
It can be hidden by a dorsal or such.

So yes, I think it can be done, your weight must be stable though
(and don't make it so tight you cannot do the dolphin undulation).

[PearlieMae]

You might consider cutting the fabric on the bias to make the fabric more flexible. But if the sequins' pattern is square to the selvedges, it might not lend itself to being cut on an angle.

Check http://www.burdastyle.com/ or other sewing sites about sewing on the bias. You will need a zipper, regardless. Good luck!

[skarla]

Thanks guys :) I'm going to be buying the fabric tomorrow, I'm so excited to make this tail! :D

[PearlieMae]

Good luck! You might want to buy some inexpensive muslin and make a test tail before you cut into your expensive sequined fabric. It could save you a lot of money and aggravation!