What To Know
- This guide will walk you through the process, from choosing the right fabric to finishing the seams, allowing you to create a skirt that perfectly fits your body and reflects your individual style.
- On a piece of paper, draw a rectangle with the width equal to your hip measurement plus seam allowances and the height equal to your skirt length plus seam allowances.
- Cut two strips of fabric for the waistband, each with a length equal to your waist measurement plus seam allowances and a width equal to your….
The high waist pencil skirt is a timeless classic that flatters every figure. It’s versatile enough to be dressed up or down, making it a perfect addition to any wardrobe. But if you’re looking to add a touch of personalization and unique style, sewing your own high waist pencil skirt is the way to go. This guide will walk you through the process, from choosing the right fabric to finishing the seams, allowing you to create a skirt that perfectly fits your body and reflects your individual style.
1. Gathering Your Materials: The Foundation of Your Project
Before you begin cutting and sewing, ensure you have all the necessary materials. This will make the process smoother and prevent any last-minute scrambling. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Fabric: Choose a fabric that drapes well and has some body, like cotton twill, linen, or a stretch blend. For a more formal look, consider silk or velvet.
- Pattern: You can find a high waist pencil skirt pattern online or at a fabric store. Or, you can create your own pattern using the measurements provided later in this guide.
- Sewing machine: A basic sewing machine will suffice.
- Scissors: A pair of sharp fabric scissors is essential for precise cutting.
- Tape measure: Use a flexible tape measure for accurate body measurements.
- Pins: Keep a supply of straight pins for holding fabric pieces together.
- Thread: Choose a thread color that matches or complements your fabric.
- Zipper: A concealed zipper is recommended for a sleek finish.
- Iron and ironing board: Ironing is crucial for pressing seams and creating a crisp finish.
- Sewing needle: A hand sewing needle is useful for finishing seams and attaching the zipper.
2. Taking Accurate Measurements: Your Personal Fit Guide
A perfectly fitting skirt starts with accurate measurements. Use a flexible tape measure and follow these steps:
- Waist: Measure around your natural waistline, the narrowest part of your torso.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, ensuring the tape measure sits horizontally.
- Skirt Length: Decide on your desired skirt length and measure from your waistline to the desired hemline.
- Rise: This measurement determines the height of the skirt’s waistband. Measure from your waistline to the desired rise height.
3. Choosing the Right Fabric: The Essence of Your Skirt
The fabric you choose will significantly impact the look and feel of your skirt. Consider the following factors:
- Drape: Look for fabrics that drape well, creating a flattering silhouette.
- Weight: Choose a fabric with a weight appropriate for the season and your desired look.
- Stretch: If you want a more forgiving fit, opt for a fabric with some stretch.
- Care: Consider the fabric’s care instructions and make sure it’s something you can easily maintain.
4. Pattern Creation: Crafting Your Individual Design
If you can’t find a suitable pattern, you can create your own using the following steps:
- Draw a rectangle: On a piece of paper, draw a rectangle with the width equal to your hip measurement plus seam allowances and the height equal to your skirt length plus seam allowances.
- Mark the waistline: From the top edge of the rectangle, mark a line equal to your rise measurement.
- Create the skirt shape: Draw a curved line from the top edge of the rectangle to the bottom edge, creating the desired skirt shape.
- Add seam allowances: Add seam allowances to all edges of the pattern piece.
5. Cutting the Fabric: Precision in Every Detail
Once you have your pattern, it’s time to cut the fabric. Lay your fabric flat and carefully place the pattern on top. Secure it with pins and use sharp scissors to cut out the fabric pieces. Remember to cut two pieces for the front and back of the skirt.
6. Sewing the Skirt: Bringing Your Vision to Life
Now comes the fun part: sewing your skirt together. Follow these steps:
- Sew the side seams: Pin and sew the side seams of the skirt, using a straight stitch.
- Finish the seams: Overlock or zigzag the seam edges to prevent fraying.
- Sew the waistband: Cut two strips of fabric for the waistband, each with a length equal to your waist measurement plus seam allowances and a width equal to your desired waistband width. Sew the waistband strips together, leaving an opening for the zipper.
- Attach the waistband to the skirt: Pin and sew the waistband to the top edge of the skirt, right sides facing.
- Insert the zipper: Insert the concealed zipper into the opening left in the waistband.
- Hem the skirt: Fold the hem allowance up and press it. Pin and sew the hem in place, using a blind stitch for a clean finish.
7. Finishing Touches: A Polished and Professional Look
Once the skirt is sewn, add the finishing touches:
- Press all seams: Iron all seams flat for a crisp and professional look.
- Remove any loose threads: Trim any loose threads that may be visible.
- Try on the skirt: Check the fit and make any necessary adjustments.
Beyond the Basics: Elevating Your High Waist Pencil Skirt
Once you’ve mastered the basic construction, you can add your own personal touches to elevate your skirt. Here are a few ideas:
- Add a belt loop: Sew a belt loop to the back of the waistband for added style and functionality.
- Embellish the waistband: Decorate the waistband with buttons, beads, or embroidery for a unique touch.
- Experiment with different fabrics: Try different textures and patterns to create a variety of looks.
Final Thoughts: Embrace Your Creativity and Own Your Style
Creating your own high waist pencil skirt allows you to express your individual style and have a garment that fits you perfectly. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fabrics, colors, and embellishments to create a skirt that truly reflects your personality. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process!
Top Questions Asked
Q: What is the best fabric for a high waist pencil skirt?
A: Cotton twill, linen, and stretch blends are all excellent choices for a high waist pencil skirt. These fabrics drape well and have some body, creating a flattering silhouette.
Q: How do I choose the right size for my pattern?
A: Choose a pattern size that corresponds to your hip measurement. If you’re between sizes, choose the larger size.
Q: How do I make sure my skirt fits properly?
A: Try on the skirt as you sew to ensure it fits properly. Make any necessary adjustments before finishing the seams.
Q: Can I make a high waist pencil skirt without a pattern?
A: Yes, you can create your own pattern using the measurements provided in this guide.
Q: What are some tips for sewing a high waist pencil skirt?
A: Use a walking foot on your sewing machine to prevent fabric from slipping. Iron all seams as you go for a crisp finish. And don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
