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WEEKLY ARTICLES

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Article 09 - May 3, 2010

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DIY

How to Make an Elastic Waistband Skirt - How to Make a Chic & Simple Skirt

(As seen in our ad for VOGUE magazine, how to make a quick and easy elastic waistband skirt.)

	First, go to our Pattern Making Page, and make yourself a skirt pattern.
	Once your pattern is made, cut 2 on the fold of your fabric, one piece will be your skirt back and one will be your skirt front.
	Stitching the side seams: With your skirt front and back PRETTY SIDES TOGETHER, pin your side seams as shown in the photo. (Pin both sides, only one side is shown.)
	Stitch your side seams using a straight stitch and using a 5/8" seam allowance.

	All seams must be finished. Open your seam and zigzag stitch on each side of your seam allowance making sure you do not catch any fabric of your garment. Zigzag on/off the edge of each seam allowance. Click on the link above for further explanation. (Make sure your skirt is not under the seam as you zigzag. This photo shows what it will look like when it is done.)
	Press the seams open.
	Making an elastic casing: Fold under the top of your skirt 1/4" seam allowance. Stitch down the center of the seam.
	Fold waistline again but this time 1 and 1/2 inches. Press and pin. Leave an opening in the back. Use a chalk line to show where not to sew.

	Stitch around the waistline leaving an opening where your chalk line is. Stitch again along the top using the pressure foot as your guide. This forms a more professional looking casing.
	Measure your waistline and cut elastic the same size. With a large safety pin put the elastic through the casing around the top of the skirt.
	Stitch the elastic together.

Try on the skirt and see if the elastic feels okay and fits good. If so, stitch the opening closed.

Hemming the skirt:

Try on your skirt again for your last fitting with the shoes you will be wearing with the skirt. If possible while you are wearing the skirt have some one else mark the spot where you would like the hem to be.

Cut 1" below the line.

Fold up your hem 1/4" - 1/2" and press.

Fold up your hem 1/4"-1/2" again and stitch using a top stitching effect.

Your skirt is done.

Many things can be added to a skirt to embellish it. Be creative! Some of our favorites are shown on our skirts photo page.

Send us a photo of the ones you've made!!!

This simple elastic waistband skirt was embellished with ribbon sewn on and a flower.

Founder & Publisher: Judi Harris

Editor in Chief: Montgomery Harris (Jessica)

Art & Photo Editor: Andrew DiMaio

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Article 09 May 3, 2010