Do you want to sew a skirt? In this article, you will find all the information you need, including pattern recommendations for beginners.
The most important things at a glance
- In this post, you will find all the information and the right patterns to sew a skirt
- I recommend various skirt patterns (all perfectly suitable for beginners) and have a nice list of free skirt patterns in store for you as well
- Stretchy fabrics like jersey are excellent for sewing your own skirt
- Many skirt patterns can also be implemented very well using cotton and other woven fabrics
- Beginners need about 1 hour to sew a skirt
Can beginners also sew a skirt?
If you are a sewing beginner wanting to make your first garment or you don't have much experience in sewing clothes yet, a skirt is the perfect entry-level project.
As a beginner, it's best to choose a very simple skirt pattern so that you definitely have a sense of achievement and don't lose your enthusiasm for sewing clothes.
My tip: Even with skirt patterns, there are big differences in terms of beginner-friendliness and quality. It's better to invest a few euros in a high-quality pattern rather than cutting corners—otherwise, there is a risk that the sewing experience will turn into a marathon of frustration. With a good pattern, sewing skirts becomes a fun project with a result you can be proud of (and that you will love to wear!).
Below, I have linked our various patterns for all kinds of skirts; feel free to take a look, they are all great for beginners.
The patterns for our skirts are clear, uncomplicated to cut out, and assembling them is also child's play.
If you are still unsure about using patterns, you can find lots of information here on the topic of reading and understanding patterns. We also look at questions or stumbling blocks you might encounter on the way to the perfect skirt (or any other garment you've always wanted to sew yourself) in our post about common pattern problems.
After you have transferred the pattern to your chosen fabric, it's time to cut out the fabric and then you can start sewing.
What do I need to know before sewing a skirt?
Before you get started with sewing the skirt, you should determine the required size. To ensure everything fits perfectly in the end, you should measure yourself (or the person you are sewing for) exactly. It's often hard to do this perfectly on your own. If someone else helps you, it works much better to guide the measuring tape exactly horizontally across the fullest part. Because that is often the crucial point when measuring. Carefully note down your measurements and compare them with the size chart of the pattern. Every one of our patterns includes a body measurement chart for this purpose.
Our patterns also include a finished garment measurement chart. Why is it useful? If you are unsure about the size, you can take a well-fitting piece of clothing that is similar in cut and fabric type (especially the stretch factor is important here) to the skirt (or pants, shirt, etc.) you want to create. Note down those measurements and compare them with the finished garment measurement chart. Then you can be sure that your self-sewn skirt will fit you perfectly.
Once you have chosen a pattern, read through the sewing instructions in peace before you start. This way, you can familiarize yourself with the cut and the procedure and know what to expect. This is a great way to avoid many sewing mistakes.
Be sure to check whether the seam allowance is already included in the pattern. If a different seam allowance is set on your sewing machine or overlock, you can take that into account when cutting. Or, take a quick look at your machine's manual and adjust the seam width. ;)
Furthermore, you should familiarize yourself with the chosen fabric. Is it rather firmer, softer, thicker, or thinner? In the end, this also depends on whether the chosen size is appropriate. And not only that: The stretchiness of elastic fabrics can vary greatly. If size 42 fits you perfectly for a garment made of modal jersey, you might need a 46 for the same pattern made of sweatshirt fleece.
To know which seams look good on your fabric, you should grab a small test piece. With jersey, make sure you don't use the edge strip reinforced with sizing. It is pre-treated with starch so that it doesn't curl up on the fabric bolt.
Due to this treatment, the edge strip has completely different fabric properties than the actual fabric you will use to sew your skirt. So, buy a few centimeters extra and use the additional fabric as a test piece. And do this for all types of seams that will appear in your sewing project. Even for hem seams! As you might know from my blog post, there is quite a lot to consider when sewing hems, right?
Feel free to read my article which fabric for what, in which I introduce more than 50 different types of fabric with their respective characteristics, processing, and application possibilities. Truly very informative and worth reading!
Perhaps you are a bit insecure because you have little or no experience with sewing stretchy fabrics? Then I have a few more tips for you:
When sewing elastic fabrics, a walking foot can be very helpful. It helps you transport the fabric evenly and thus sew it evenly. This is especially helpful for sticky, thick, elastic, or slippery fabrics. You can find much more information on the topic of walking feet in this post: Sewing with a walking foot.
For a beautiful and, above all, durable sewing result, it is very important to use a jersey or stretch needle when sewing elastic fabrics. To get an overview of the functions of different sewing machine needles, feel free to take a look at this great guide to sewing machine needles by Sabine.
Especially at the beginning, it is advisable to sew slowly. This is the only way to keep control of your machine and enjoy clean seams in the end. To sew slowly, simply use the gas pedal very gently.
Many sewing machines also have a lever that can be used to set the speed. If it is set to the slow or medium level, no mistakes can happen even if you accidentally press the foot pedal too hard.
If you don't own an overlocker, you can use an elastic stitch or the overlock stitch that many sewing machines have. You can read all about it here: Overlock stitch with the sewing machine (here's how it's done!).
Sewing a skirt for beginners: How much fabric is needed?
You have already done the most important preparatory work: You have determined your correct size by measuring yourself. Based on this size, you can now consult the fabric consumption table of your chosen pattern. It looks like this, for example:
Very important: Pay attention to the fabric width specified in the consumption table. The fabric width is not standardized and can vary greatly. With narrow fabric bolts (often the case with fine designer or patchwork fabrics), this can lead to needing significantly more fabric than specified.
Also, consider beforehand what length your finished skirt will have. You can see in the table that different amounts of fabric are required for the different versions.
Important tip: Hemming correctly
When you have finished sewing your skirt and only the hem is missing, I have a few tips for you. Since you will need this technique for practically every skirt, I will show you how to hem it here in a short, easy-to-understand photo tutorial.
Reading tip: You can find waaaay more info about different hems here: Sewing hems (these 20 hems you need to know).
There are many different ways to hem a garment. To ensure you are satisfied and achieve a beautiful result in the end, I have a few tips for you:
- To make the hem look nice and smooth, you can reinforce it with elastic hem tape. With this trick, you manage to tame fabrics like jersey that roll up strongly at the edges.
- Hems sewn with a twin needle look particularly professional and are very durable. This is because the seam remains elastic and the stitches run exactly parallel. Incidentally, there are also triple needles that work just like twin needles. Be sure to read more about it in my blog post Sewing with a twin needle.
- You can use the walking foot to ensure your hems are nice and even. The walking foot ensures that both layers of fabric are transported together at the same time. This results in a particularly even stitch pattern.
- You shouldn't pull on the fabric while hemming, otherwise ugly and noticeable waves will form.
Easing the hem
Especially with flared skirts, it can happen that the skirt hem has a lot of extra width. This makes it a small challenge to iron it down well and get a smooth hem. But you can easily get that under control:
Set your overlocker to the "Ease" or "Gather" function. Test on a scrap piece of fabric to see if the fabric is only slightly gathered. It shouldn't ruffle strongly. Try this, preferably on a slightly curved fabric strip at least 25 cm long.
Afterward, iron the hem as a test and see if it lies nicely flat. Then you have done everything right. Note down the machine setting so you have it ready when hemming. Because the side seams of the skirt are, after all, sewn with a "normal" setting. ;)
Sewing a skirt yourself: These are the perfect fabrics!
To sew a skirt, you have a huge selection of different fabrics. It is important to pay attention to which properties your chosen fabric should have. It is especially important to check whether the fabric needs to be stretchy or not.
Another note on finishing seams: Elastic fabrics often do not fray and therefore do not need to be finished. Woven fabrics are different: Here, it is generally sensible to finish the seam allowances and hem allowances with the overlock or an overcasting stitch on your sewing machine so that the seams are durable.
These elastic fabrics are particularly well-suited for sewing skirts:
- French Terry*: holds its shape well and is suitable for skirts for cooler days
- Jacquard Jersey*: brilliant for knitted skirts and the cold season
- Cotton Jersey*: perfect for uncomplicated summer skirts
- Ponte di Roma / Romanit Jersey*: a firmer jersey that keeps its shape well and is suitable for all kinds of skirt cuts, great for pencil skirts, for example!
- Viscose Jersey*: for flowing skirt cuts, has cooling properties, can therefore be worn solo in the warm season, or with leggings underneath when it's colder, because viscose jersey doesn't "cling" easily, meaning it doesn't get stuck to garments worn underneath
Tip: Interlock jersey* has proven to be particularly recommended for beginners. Unlike single jersey, it is knitted with two needles. The result: The fabric lies nice and flat and does not curl at the edges.
Further reading: Be sure to check out my post on the topic of sewing stretchy fabrics.
These non-elastic fabrics are particularly well-suited for sewing skirts:
- Viscose fabrics* (elastic and non-elastic)
- Chambray fabrics*: a beautifully mottled woven fabric that is particularly easy to combine with other garments
- Corduroy:* for rustic, durable skirts that never go out of style; by the way, sewing a corduroy skirt is also great for beginners because the sturdy fabric is very easy to work with
- Tencel*: smooth, cool, fine – and incredibly comfortable to wear
- Silk: classy and very fine, however, a bit more demanding to process, therefore not necessarily suitable for beginners
- Satin*: for festive skirts that will really turn heads; by the way, it is also available as stretch satin and is quite easy to work with in both versions
- Shirt Denim*: thin, airy denim fabric that is excellent for swinging skirts and combines perfectly
- Georgette*: a crepe-like fabric with a grainy feel; looks extravagant, but is usually very easy to work with
- Muslin*: for puffy summer skirts; important here: the fabric also puffs around the hips, so it's important to choose a pattern that doesn't visually add 10 kg to your hips
- Blouse and dress fabrics*: there is an enormous selection here, especially of blended fabrics
- Linen*: cool, lightweight, easy to sew (if you follow a few basic rules when sewing with linen fabrics) and with an elegant crease; by the way, you can sew an airy linen skirt from two simple rectangles with the help of an elastic waistband!
- flowing cotton fabrics*: affordable, easy-care, easy to sew, and available in an incredible variety of colors and designs, also great if you want to sew a skirt for children
Tip: Remember to iron the fabric well before cutting. Especially if you want to cut the skirt pieces on the fold. Otherwise, errors can easily creep in, which can lead to a poorer fit.
Further reading: If you would like to know more about working with woven fabrics, also read my blog posts on sewing with linen fabric and sewing cotton fabric.
What sewing machine do I need to sew a skirt?
You can of course sew skirts with your normal sewing machine. For elastic skirt fabrics, you should make sure to use a jersey or stretch needle and set an elastic stitch. A tight zigzag stitch or an overlock stitch is suitable for this, for example. For non-elastic fabrics, a simple universal needle will do, depending on the thickness of the fabric.
Skirts of all kinds are of course particularly easy, fast, and comfortable to sew with an overlocker. This is because the overlocker produces nice, even seams. By the way, you can also easily process non-elastic fabrics with an overlocker if you simply sew an additional seam with the sewing machine inside next to the overlock seam after closing the seam.
This also has the advantage that your overlock seam doesn't necessarily have to match the color of the fabric: you should sew the "visible" sewing machine seam in the fabric color.
Especially when sewing with elastic fabrics, it's great to be able to use an overlocker. You can read the best tips and tricks for sewing with an overlocker here.
What accessories do I need to sew a skirt?
If you want to sew a simple beginner-friendly skirt for the first time, you don't need that many materials to get started. Maybe you just want to test whether sewing clothes is even for you and not equip yourself with tons of sewing supplies right away? I can understand that well.
If you want to test it out for yourself, these are the materials you should definitely have at home:
- the appropriate sewing pattern
- the appropriate fabric in the correct amount (be sure to follow the fabric consumption table)
- Marking pen*
- Scissors*
- color-matching sewing thread*
- Pins*
- Sewing machine or overlocker
When choosing the appropriate sewing pattern, make sure it is suitable for sewing beginners. Feel free to take a look at the skirts shown below; they are all very beginner-friendly.
The appropriate fabric should not only match your personal taste but also the recommendations of the pattern.
You need a marking pen to transfer the pattern and its associated markings onto the fabric. Feel free to read the comprehensive article on fabric markers, fabric pens, and chalk on this topic as well.
Good scissors are essential when sewing. You won't be happy with cheap scissors for long, and frustration is inevitable. It's worth spending a little more money. Recommended reading: My informative blog post All about scissors for sewing.
With color-matching sewing thread, your first sewing projects will be even more beautiful. If you don't want to spend too much money at the beginning, you can treat yourself to a few spools of neutral sewing thread. A light gray or a warm beige tone is suitable for this, for example.
With grippy, sharp pins, pinning is twice as much fun! I love using these pins from Prym*. They sit well in the hand and aren't expensive either.
Well, when it comes to the sewing machine or overlocker, unfortunately, I can't recommend buying a cheap one from a discount store first. It is really worth buying a good sewing machine so that the sewing experience is pleasant and the joy of sewing is lasting.
If you liked your first attempt at sewing a skirt, you can always upgrade later :).
For even more joy when sewing clothes, it is nice to have a few additional materials at home. These include the following things:
- Cutting mat*
- Rotary cutter*
- Fabric clips*
- possibly elastic seam tape*
- possibly elastic fusible interfacing* for the facing
- possibly walking foot
Why does it make sense to sew a skirt using a pattern?
Most skirt patterns consist mainly of two parts: front and back. So why not just take two pieces of fabric, sew the side seams, attach the waistband, and you're done? I can tell you: Because these two crucial parts must have an anatomically correct cut if they are to fit well.
An example? Most SewSimple patterns are cut wider at the back than at the front. Why? Because the butt and hips need space. That is always taken into account in my patterns. So that nothing bulges and the new garment fits perfectly, such seemingly simple parts must also (and especially!) be designed with a lot of know-how. This makes the finished skirt a piece of couture in your wardrobe. Without a pattern, it's just a piece of fabric with a waistband on it. ;)
If you want to sew a simple children's skirt, you can start without a pattern: two rectangles with an elastic band sewn onto the skirt: your 10-minute skirt is ready. Then you can also quickly sew a fast rolled hem: perfect!
Sewing a skirt: The best instructions
SewSimple offers some beautiful instructions for very different skirts with an anti-frustration guarantee. Here I will introduce you to the most beautiful and popular sewing patterns including eBooks.
Sewing a jersey skirt: Skirt Livia
- Pattern name: “Livia”
- Sewing time: 1 hour
- Sewing level: Beginner
- Suitable materials: Elastic fabrics
- Special feature: Versatile basic skirt for women
Info about the jersey skirt
An uncomplicated, slightly flared skirt for elastic fabrics. The pattern is available in 3 great lengths: knee, calf, and ankle length. You can sew the pattern either with a shaped waistband (gives a great figure) or with a nice wide elastic band. The skirt is sewn simply by closing the side seams, attaching the waistband, and hemming the skirt. No walking slit, no zipper, so completely easy!
Review
“This skirt is perfect. I have sewn it from jersey and from linen. It is quick to sew and makes a great figure, even with a big butt :) It's also super comfortable."
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Susanne
Sewing a skirt for women from woven fabric (e.g., cotton)
- Pattern name: “Frida”
- Sewing time: 90 minutes
- Sewing level: Beginner
- Suitable materials: Woven fabric, non-elastic fabrics
- Special feature: Pleated skirt in Frida style
Info about the skirt made of woven fabric
Frida is a true classic! A wide-swinging skirt with inserted pleats whose narrow-cut hips make it a real figure wonder. The skirt consists of two pleated rectangles that are cut on the fold. It is important to measure your hip circumference exactly to get the right size. You can sew the skirt with a concealed zipper or give it a wide waistband made of jersey, elastic, or ribbed fabric. The skirt length is marked as mini, midi, and maxi on the pattern.
Review
I sewed my first skirt yesterday and it fits like a glove. I used a rather thin, flowy fabric. Today I'm sewing Frida again with cotton woven fabric. I am totally thrilled. Thanks for the pattern and the easy-to-understand instructions."
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Ruth
Sewing a girl's skirt
- Pattern name: “Frida mini”
- Sewing time: 1 hour
- Sewing level: Beginner
- Suitable materials: Elastic and non-elastic fabrics
- Special feature: Versatile basic skirt for children
Info about the girl's skirt
Sewing the girl's skirt Frida mini – even beginners can do it easily: The cut for this summer skirt is intentionally kept clear. That makes it easy for beginners to keep an overview.
Girl's skirt Frida mini is available in sizes 86-158, so it is suitable for babies, toddlers, school children, and teens.
The skirt is laid into generous pleats and sewn with a wide waistband. This makes the skirt waistband particularly flexible and comfortable. It is airily wide and also perfect with leggings underneath when the days are cooler. By the way, you can also decorate the hem beautifully with lace!
Review
"My 13-year-old daughter sewed this skirt. With a little help, she managed everything herself! Great!"
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Michaela
Sewing a pinafore skirt for women
- Pattern name: “Lexis”
- Sewing time: 180 min.
- Sewing level: Beginner
- Suitable materials: Elastic and non-elastic fabrics
- Special feature: Pinafore skirt for women
Info about the pinafore skirt
Pinafore skirt/dress Lexis is something very special for me: With this sewing pattern, I fulfilled a long-held dream. Why? Because pinafore dresses/skirts are hardly available in larger sizes and in the tall range. And if they are, then the color or material is not right.
With Lexis, that's history: Lexis is a casually cut maxi pinafore skirt with a classic top. Perfect for plaid and corduroy fabrics, denim, and cotton. And that up to size 60.
You don't like a maxi skirt? Lexis can simply be shortened to the desired length! :)
Review
"Hello dear Sabine, I have now sewn Lexis for the second time (once from linen and once from baby cord). I got along great with the patterns. However, I made the straps shorter for the second dress and used buttons instead of buckles. I get compliments every time I wear Lexis. Now I'm just missing a Lexis skirt made of denim fabric."
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Gabi
Download
Click here for the pattern: eBook: Pinafore dress Lexis | Size 32 – 60
Sewing a pinafore skirt for children
- Pattern name: “Lexis mini”
- Sewing time: 180 minutes
- Sewing level: Beginner
- Suitable materials: Elastic and non-elastic fabrics
- Special feature: Versatile pinafore skirt for children
Info about the pinafore skirt for children
By the way, Lexis is also available for children: Just as casually cut as the women's version, but shorter at knee length and therefore more practical for children. The length can also be varied via the straps. The pattern includes nice pockets in 2 sizes, where many larger and smaller treasures can find a place.
Review
"The pattern is super easy, just right for my little granddaughter!"
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Marianne
YouTube sewing a skirt
Skirt sewing freebooks
If you want to start very relaxed, you can also download a freebook first. In my freebook collection, there are many patterns with free instructions that you can use to dare your start in skirt sewing.
Click here for the free patterns: Freebooks: Sewing clothes for adults
Conclusion
Sewing a skirt is not only a perfect project for beginners – it can also be a wonderful entry point into the world of sewing clothes. With it, you can create your own wardrobe exactly as you like. Fantastic, right? And perhaps you'll feel confident enough to take on new challenges soon? If so, feel free to check out my posts on sewing a shirt or sewing a dress!
Whichever pattern you choose to start with: I wish you lots of fun and success with your skirt project. You'll see: your first self-sewn skirt will be one thing above all else: rock 'n' roll! :)
I would be very happy if you left a comment letting me know how you liked this post. So, feel free to take a minute to provide some brief feedback, which will surely interest many other blog readers as well.
Happy simple sewing, your Sabine
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