I love to sew. I have learned to make clothes without using conventional patterns from friends over the years. It’s a lot of fun. When someone hands me a few yards of a cool-looking fabric, I begin to think about what to make of it. The length is often not enough to use a conventional pattern. Making clothing without patterns is the perfect way to use odds, ends and short lengths of fabric.
This article assumes the reader knows how to sew. There are books and internet sites with instructions. Local community classes or a friend can also teach you to sew. This is a great project for beginners.
You will need:
- · Measuring tape
- · Notebook and pencil
- · General sewing equipment
- · Fabric for skirt, lining and interfacing if desired
- · Zipper
- · Closure for waistband
Step One:
To begin, record a few measurements:
- · Your waist
- · Your hips
- · The desired skirt length
Add 12″ to the largest measurement you have. This will give the skirt ease. Add 2″ to the desired length for seam allowances. Add 5/8″ to each side for seam allowances.
For the waistband, add 2 inches to your waist measurement.
Step Two:
Prepare your fabric by pre-washing and drying it. Your skirt will not shrink when it is washed. You can use any kind of fabric for this skirt. Lightweight, flowing fabrics will look fantastic. Denim or other heavy materials will look sturdy and well-made.
Step Three:
Lay your fabric out flat and mark your cutting lines according to your measurements. Cut along the cutting lines and lay your pieces out. Cut your waistband measurement to length and make it 4″ wide. You can make a wider or narrower waistband if you wish.
Step Four:
Pin and sew your back seam up to the point where your zipper will be. Insert your zipper according to the manufacturer’s directions. Some sewers do this in reverse order; either way is fine.
Attach interfacing to the inside of the waistband up to the seam allowances. Attach the waistband to the skirt.
Put the skirt on and mark the length. Hem the skirt. If you are using a lining, attach it to the skirt before attaching the waistband.
Step Five:
Put your finished skirt on and admire your work. You now have a skirt worthy to walk into a board room or a party.
Notes:
- · Create a different look by using buttons to close the skirt instead of a seam and zipper.
- · Add pockets using your favorite method and pocket type.
- · Add belt loops and a stylish belt.
- · Create a luxurious skirt by using several layers of sheer and flowing fabrics. Use a scalloped or other uneven seam edge for a designer look without the price tag.
Your skirt will pop every time you wear it. Instead of trying to find something off the rack that “fits close,” you will have custom fitting clothes every time if you sew it yourself.
Source: The author of this article has over 40 years of experience in diverse forms of DIY, home improvement and repair, crafting, designing, and building furniture, outdoor projects, RV’ing and more.
