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Debbie Shore's Dressmaking Studio: Fluted Hem Skirt

Quick Links: What you'll need Project steps

With its shaped hem and fluted frill, this skirt is sexy and feminine, but the elastic waist ensures it’s comfortable too.

The elastic in the back waistband of this long skirt means that it doesn’t require a zip, will fit well and is comfortable to wear as well. And because the elastic is only in the back of the skirt, the front waist remains smooth and flattering. What’s more, the deep fluted ruffle around the hem ensures the skirt has a lovely fluid movement when you walk.

You’ll need a fabric that drapes well, such as viscose or crepe, or jersey would also work well. Viscose can be quite a fluid fabric, so make sure you have a large, flat cutting area to prevent the fabric from distorting. Because woven fabric frays, I’d suggest you finish the seams with an overlocker/serger, overcasting stitch or pinking shears to prevent this.

I also recommend that you make a toile first: if your pattern fits, you may find it easier to finish the seams before sewing the pattern pieces together, as I did in the video.

Always go by your measurements, not the printed dress size, so take accurate measurements and write them down for future projects.

Note: Use a ⅝in (1.5cm) seam allowance unless otherwise stated.

The Templates

Size charts are included on the template pages. There are three options to choose from:

• Click here to download the A0 pdf pattern
• Click here to download the A4 size pdf pattern
• Click here to download the US Letter size pdf pattern

For printing guidance, go here.

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You will need:

Equipment

• Sewing machine with a standard sewing foot and a suitable needle for your fabric
• Printer paper, scissors and tape if printing the pattern at home 
• Optional: rolled-hem foot for your machine
• Optional: overlocker – if you have one of these, you won’t need a rolled-hem foot

Materials

• 55in (140cm) wide fabric: 57in (145cm) for sizes 8–14 and 69in (175cm) for sizes 16–26
• ¾in (2cm) wide elastic: to calculate the length required, measure across your waist at the back from side to side, and deduct 2in (5cm); make sure this feels comfortable and adjust as desired
• Optional: suitable interfacing for your fabric to interface the front waistband pieces

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