DIY Hula Hoop Tent Tutorial: Create a Magical Play Space
Transform a simple hula hoop into a whimsical tent for kids or adults with this easy step-by-step guide.
Have you ever wanted to create a cozy, magical play space for your kids or even for yourself? With just a few simple materials and some basic sewing skills, you can transform a humble hula hoop into a whimsical tent that’s perfect for playtime, reading nooks, or even a fun photo backdrop. This DIY hula hoop tent tutorial walks you through every step, from cutting fabric to assembling the final product. Whether you’re crafting for children or looking for a unique decor piece, this project is both fun and rewarding.
Materials You’ll Need
- Hula hoop (standard size, about 36 inches in diameter)
- Drapery or lightweight fabric (about 6 yards, depending on desired length)
- White cotton or contrasting fabric for the tent top
- Thread and sewing machine
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Pins
- Safety pin
- Velcro strips
- Ceiling hook (optional, for hanging)
Step 1: Cut the Drapery Fabric
Begin by cutting your drapery yardage into 2-yard sections. If you’re using a smaller hula hoop, you may need to connect two sections with a middle seam. This will ensure the fabric is long enough to drape elegantly around the hoop. Lay out your fabric and use sharp scissors to make clean, straight cuts. This step is crucial for achieving a polished look in your finished tent.
Step 2: Stitch the Drapery Sections
Once your fabric is cut, stitch the straight edges of the connected strips together using a wide stitch about 1/4 inch from the open edge. This will prevent the pieces from shifting apart when you attach them to the rest of the tent. Use a sewing machine for a strong, even seam. Press the seam flat with an iron for a neat finish.
Step 3: Create the Hanging Strip
For the tent to hang from a ceiling hook, you’ll need a fabric strip. Cut a piece of fabric about 24 inches long and 2 inches wide. Iron the strip in half lengthwise, then stitch it closed about 1/4 inch from the raw edges. This creates a tube of fabric. Use a safety pin to flip the tube right-side out, then iron it flat. This hanging strip will be attached to the top of your tent, allowing it to be suspended from a hook.
Step 4: Cut and Prepare the Tent Top
The top of the tent is made from eight fabric triangles. To determine the size of each triangle, use this formula:
- Base width: 1/8 of the hula hoop’s circumference + 1.5 inches
- Length: 3/4 of the hula hoop’s diameter
For a standard 36-inch hoop, this would be:
| Measurement | Calculation | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Base Width | 1/8 × 113.1 + 1.5 | ~15.6 inches |
| Length | 3/4 × 36 | 27 inches |
For a more whimsical look, curve the edges of the triangles slightly. Fold each triangle in half before cutting to ensure symmetry, then use one as a template for the rest.
Step 5: Assemble the Tent Top
Pin together and stitch four triangles to make one half of the tent top. Repeat for the other four triangles. Keep your hem stitch about 1/4 inch from the edges for a clean finish. Before connecting the two halves, attach the hanging strip you made in Step 3 to the peak of the conjoined triangles. Arrange it as shown in the reference images and stitch it securely in place.
Step 6: Join the Two Halves
With the hanging strip tucked inside, pin together the two halves of the tent top. Stitch them together with a flat stitch at the peak, perpendicular to the center stitch of the four triangles that make up one half. This creates a seamless, circular top for your tent.
Step 7: Trim the Tent Top
Lay the hula hoop over the finished tent top and trim the edges to make a circle about 1 inch larger than the hoop. This extra space allows the tent top to drape over the hoop without being too tight. Use sharp scissors for a clean, even edge.
Step 8: Gather and Attach the Drapes
To attach the drapes to the tent top, first gather the fabric at the top edge. Do this by hand-stitching a loose running stitch along the top of the drapes, then pulling the thread to gather the fabric. Loosen the gather to match the circumference of the tent top’s zigzag border, then pin the drapes in place. Stitch them together on your sewing machine for a secure connection.
Step 9: Connect the Tent Top and Drapes
Pin the right side of the tent top to the right side of the border and drapes. Stitch them together on the sewing machine. If the tent top is slightly larger than the border, pin the border a bit inside the edge of the tent top, staying true to the circle. This ensures a smooth, even fit.
Step 10: Add Velcro for Easy Assembly
Stitch Velcro pieces to the inside hem where the tent top and border are connected. Make sure the Velcro is facing the correct direction so it can securely attach to the hula hoop. Use two Velcro pieces per triangle base for extra support. The more Velcro, the better the stability!
Step 11: Final Assembly and Hanging
Once all the pieces are sewn together, attach the tent to the hula hoop using the Velcro strips. Hang the tent from a ceiling hook using the fabric strip you created earlier. Adjust the length of the hanging strip as needed for your space. Your hula hoop tent is now ready for playtime, reading, or even as a photo backdrop!
Tips for Success
- Use lightweight, flowy fabric for a soft, dreamy look.
- Choose colors and patterns that match your decor or your child’s preferences.
- Double-check all measurements before cutting fabric to avoid mistakes.
- Press seams flat with an iron for a professional finish.
- Test the tent’s stability before letting kids play inside.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different size hula hoop?
Yes! Just adjust the fabric measurements using the formulas provided. Larger hoops will require more fabric, while smaller hoops will need less.
What type of fabric works best?
Lightweight drapery, cotton, or muslin work well. Avoid heavy fabrics that might make the tent too bulky or difficult to hang.
Can I make this tent without a sewing machine?
Yes, but it will take more time. Hand-stitching all the seams is possible, but a sewing machine will make the process faster and more durable.
How do I clean the tent?
Spot clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid machine washing, as it could damage the fabric or seams.
Is this tent safe for young children?
Yes, as long as it’s securely hung and supervised. Make sure the tent is stable and the fabric is free of sharp edges or loose threads.
Why Make a Hula Hoop Tent?
A hula hoop tent is more than just a fun craft project—it’s a way to create a special space for imagination and play. Whether you’re making it for kids, for a cozy reading nook, or as a unique decor piece, this tent adds charm and whimsy to any room. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover fabric and repurpose a hula hoop that might otherwise sit unused.
Final Thoughts
Creating a hula hoop tent is a rewarding DIY project that combines creativity, sewing skills, and a touch of magic. With this step-by-step tutorial, you can make a beautiful, functional tent that’s perfect for play, relaxation, or decoration. Gather your materials, follow the instructions, and enjoy the process of bringing your vision to life. Happy crafting!
