I Made It Monday - Simple Skirt Tutorial - Perfect for Beginners!

Top: New Look Pattern 6194, neckband omitted & made longer /
Fabric: Gifted, purchased in 1970's.  100% genuine 70's Polyester!

I often make a skirt & top in the same fabric so I have the versatility of wearing it as a dress or separates.

Photos c/o my wonderful Husband

This skirt is really easy to make and perfect for beginners as it is hard to mess up!  It is basically a rectangle with elastic in one end.  I suggest you use a soft fabric so it has nice drape.  Here I've used a fabulous 1970's polyester which was given to me.  I love it! 

Here is how to make it:

1. Measure your waist, and multiply that number by 1.5. This will be your skirt width measurement. Measure from your waist to your knee; this is your length measurement.
Cut two rectangles of fabric using these measurements. Then cut two waistband rectangles using the same width measurement, and making it 10cm in height.

 

2. Sew the sides of the skirt up with right sides together, then sew the sides of the waistband up with right sides together.  Finish seams on skirt (you don't have to finish waistband seams). 

3. Fold the waistband in half (5 cm tall) and has a folded edge on one side and two raw edges on the other side. 

4. Pin the waistband around the top of the skirt. Make sure the raw edges of skirt & waistband are together. Sew around the entire waistband with a straight stitch and a 1.5cm seam allowance, but leave 5cm open so you have a spot to slide your elastic inside.

 

5. Measure your waist where you want your skirt to sit and cut a piece of elastic to this size. Attach a pin to one end and use it to feed the elastic through the waistband casing you just created. To ensure the other end of the elastic doesn't slide into your casing -- secure it with a safety pin at the opening. Once the elastic is completely fed through, sew the ends of the elastic together really well. 

6. Sew the opening in the waistband closed.  Finish your seams with an overlocker (serger) or zig zag stitch. 

 

7.  Hem your skirt to your desired length.  You can hand sew or machine sew the hem.

8. Press your seams, hem and skirt well, it helps the stitches set and gives a professional finish.  Do not skip this step! 

 

 

Ta da!  You have made a skirt!  Put in on and feel fabulous and proud every time you get a compliment on it!