Hi you all! Today I bring you a very simple but cute tutorial.
Let’s face it, sometimes we have the best intentions to make something exceptional for the holidays, a birthday or some other special occasion. However, oftentimes life gets in the way. I now have a fulltime job, my daughter is involved in track, cub scouts and swimming. And let’s not forget the cool, but never-ending Kindergarten projects. Enter the simple circle skirt attached to a store-bought top. All you need is 15-20 minutes and you have a very cute dress. So, let’s get started.
You will need:
- 1 – 2 yards of fabric (for my 6-year-old, I only need 1 yard)
- A store-bought top
- A ruler (if for an adult, use a yardstick)
- A marking tool
- A measuring tape
- Scissors
- Matching thread
- Sewing machine
Step 1
First, you will need to find the radius of the skirt. Decide where you want the skirt to fall on the waist and measure the circumference. Also measure the desired length starting at the waist. For my kiddo, I choose a drop waist (on the hips). Her measurement was 22” and 16.5” for length. Remember to add hem allowance. Now use the formula
r=c2π
r = 22/6.24, so r = 3.5.
Step 2
Fold your fabric in half and then in half again. Your marks will be on the 2 folds. Measure down on one corner to the radius you got (my example 3.5”) and mark. Continue rotating ruler at the corner at 3.5” until the other corner. Connect the marks. Now measure from the corner down to the length (16.5”) and repeat same process to the other fold and connect the marks. And cut out your skirt.
Note: If you plan on making more circle skirts in the near future, I would suggest you make a pattern piece out of craft paper. Make sure to label both folds to remind yourself where to place the pattern.
Step 3
Now, put store-bought top on and mark on the right side where you want to attach the skirt. You may choose to cut the top at this line. However, I didn’t. Since this was going to be a Christmas dress, I knew I would get more use out of the top than the dress. Also, find the middle of the top and pin your skirt in 4 equal pieces.
Step 4
With right sides together pin the skirt to the top at the tops side seams, center front and center back. Depending on your fabric choice, straight stitch (if both woven) or zigzag stitch (knits) together. You could topstitch to finish it off. I didn’t because like I said, I intended to remove the skirt after the holidays. Who knows, maybe I’ll add an elastic to the skirt and she can use it when she plays dress-up.
And there you have it. A very quick and easy way to make a dress for a special occasion. I hope you all enjoyed this simple tutorial.
Written by Maggie B
