Pattern Description:
This tutorial teaches how to make a simple skirt with pockets for any size using basic math instead of a paper pattern.
To determine the fabric pieces, calculate width by dividing the waist measurement by two, then multiplying by 1.5 or 2 for desired fullness. Length is the desired measurement plus 3 inches for hems and casing.
The process includes sewing four pocket pieces 2″ down from the waistline onto the front and back skirt panels, assembling the skirt, and attaching an elastic waistband.
Materials Needed & Measurements:
Materials:
- Sewing essentials.
- Fabric of choice (e.g., cotton, poly, and linen fabrics should be prewashed).
- Elastic.
- Printed children’s pocket pattern or adult pocket pattern.
Key Measurements and Formulas:
The pattern requires taking two basic measurements: the waist measurement and the desired length of the skirt.
1. To find the Width of each fabric piece (cut 2): Take your waist measurement, divide that by 2, then multiply that number by 1.5 for less fullness or 2 for more fullness.
2. To find the Length of each fabric piece (cut 2): Take the length you desire the skirt to be and add 3 inches. This addition accounts for 2 inches for the bottom hem and 1 inch for either a top rolled hem or a casing for the elastic.
3. Elastic Waistband Measurement: Measure the waist and subtract 1 inch; this ensures the elastic will be nice and fitted.
4. Pocket Placement: The pocket is placed 2 inches down from the waist line.
Instructions for Making the Pocket Skirt Pattern:
Taking Measurements and Calculating Fabric Pieces
To create the pattern, you need two basic measurements: the waist measurement and the desired length of the skirt. You will be cutting two fabric pieces (for the front and back skirt panels).
- To find the Width of each fabric piece: Take the waist measurement, divide that number by two, and then multiply that result by 1.5 for less fullness or 2 for more fullness.
- To find the Length of each fabric piece: Take the length you desire the skirt to be and add 3 inches. This three-inch allowance accounts for 2 inches for the bottom hem and 1 inch for either a top rolled hem or a casing for the elastic.
Cut the two fabric pieces using these calculated width and length numbers, laying the right sides of the fabric together while measuring.
Cutting the Pockets
You will need a printed children’s or adult pocket pattern. Print the pattern out, place your fabric right sides together, and cut out 2 pieces for each pocket, resulting in a total of four pieces.
Sewing the Pockets and Assembling the Skirt
To begin the sewing process, place the pocket piece 2 inches down from the waistline with the right sides together. Sew the pocket to the main piece of the skirt. This step must be completed for both sides of the front skirt piece and both sides of the back skirt piece.
Once the pockets are sewn onto both the front and back pieces, you can assemble the skirt. Lay your front and back pieces right sides together and sew the side seam, continuing to sew the pockets together.
You may optionally decide to sew a finishing stitch around your pockets, but this is not required.
Creating and Attaching the Elastic Waistband
Before attaching the skirt to the elastic, you should finish the top hem.
For the elastic, measure the waist and subtract 1 inch. This calculation ensures the elastic will be nice and fitted on the waist.
If possible, hold the elastic up around the person who will be wearing the skirt to ensure they can easily pull it up and down.
Once measured, place the waistband right sides together and sew a straight stitch with a 1/2 inch seam allowance.
To add the waistband to the skirt, gather the skirt fabric by finding the front, back, and then the sides, and pin the fabric in place to the elastic. Use a zig zag stitch to sew the gathered skirt to the elastic.
If you used a casing instead of sewing the elastic directly to the top, you can insert a piece of elastic into the casing and pull until the desired waist size is achieved; this automatically creates gathers in your skirt.
Finishing the Hems
Finally, you need to determine the bottom hem of the skirt. Decide how much fabric you want to hem, then roll the frayed edge under, and then roll it under again. Sew the hem using a straight stitch.
Making this simple skirt with pockets, which relies on a few quick math equations and basic sewing steps, is like using a universal key to unlock a door– the method works regardless of the size of the lock (or person).
