how to sew a simple flirty skirt

I love wearing skirts, and I have a stash of pretty cotton fabrics just waiting for a purpose. But I don’t like the high cost of sewing patterns. So I’ve come up with my own instructions on how to sew a simple skirt (sans buying a new pattern!) The instructions are easy to follow and perfect for beginner sewists.

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supplies needed:

• fabric – 1 yard of 45″ wide
• elastic
• sewing machine

step 1 – cutting

First of all, please prewash the fabric. I know you want to get right to the project, but this is an important step! The size of the skirt in this tutorial fits a size 6 woman. However, it can be adjusted for slightly larger or smaller sizes by taking larger or smaller seams. Unless you adjust it for a larger size, it can be made with 1 yard of 45″ wide fabric. To do this, first cut the fabric 30″ long. Then cut that piece in half lengthwise, so you end up with two pieces that measure approximately 22.5″ x 30″. Fold each of these pieces in half lengthwise to use for cutting the two skirt body pieces.

With the remaining fabric, cut the casing.

step 2 – sewing

With right sides together, pin the two body pieces together. Stitch together at side seams. Press seams open.

Next, with right together, pin two casing pieces together. Stitch one side together at seam. Stitch the other side seam, leaving a gap open in the middle, as shown below.

Press seams in casing open. Then fold casing in half lengthwise with wrong sides together; press.

Pin casing to skirt body matching side seams. (You may have to adjust the size of the casing as needed. I suggest cutting it a little larger then pinning it to skirt top to determine sizing before stitching.) Stitch casing to skirt top; then stitch a second time just above the first stitching to reinforce. Trim, then press casing up.

step 3 – finishing touches

Cut a piece of elastic approximately 30″ long. It can be adjusted to fit properly. To run it through the casing, attach a large safety pin to one end of elastic. Insert through the opening in one side of the casing and gently run through. Once it is pulled through, stitch the two ends of elastic together.

Determine the length you desire for the skirt. Use a narrow machine-stitched hem to finish bottom. Press.

With only a yard of fabric and less than two hours of time, learn how to sew a simple skirt. Now this is the fun part… pair it with a favorite tee and some cute boho earrings and you’ve got a whole new outfit!

The biggest compliment is a little share – please pin the photo below!