As it’s “Skirts” month for our CSC Season of Separates monthly challenges, it seemed apropos to share some fast and easy beginner friendly skirt patterns. The following patterns are a few examples of skirt styles that will help get your sewing into first gear and leave you feeling accomplished.
The first item of clothing that I sewed for myself as a pre-teen was a skirt. It was a wine colored ultra suede a-line skirt with a waistband and a zipper made with one of my mom’s vintage patterns from the 70’s. I would not suggest making a skirt like that for your first attempt at garment sewing. The fabric was awful and I didn’t get the zipper in correctly AT ALL. It also didn’t fit…. I suppose that’s what happens when you attempt a project on your own without help. I’ve always been a bit of an independent do-it-yourself gal — even at a young age — but sometimes you need a little direction.
One of the easiest patterns to try first is a wrap skirt. This “Learn to Sew for Fun” pattern from McCall’s has two different styles and lengths with pockets and bias binding. The tie closure means you don’t have any zippers, elastic or buttons to deal with and your skirt can go from cutting to ready-to-wear in a short period of time.
McCall’s 7129 (source: McCall Pattern Company)
If you fancy a skirt that takes less fabric and isn’t as prone to “Marilyn moments”, Sewaholic has a skirt designed for true beginners. This gored elastic waist skirt has three lengths and was designed as a first sewing project. Instead of a waistband it has a casing that’s part of the skirt itself which makes this skirt a super easy first project.
Sewaholic Rae skirt (source: Sewaholic Patterns]
If you’re looking for a similar skirt style with fewer pattern pieces, this elastic waist skirt from New Look could be just what you’re searching for. It has only two pattern pieces and can be made in various lengths. It also includes instructions for a ruffled skirt and one with lace panels.
New Look 6287 [source: Pattern Review]
Style Arc Fay skirt [source: Style Arc Patterns]
- Look beyond the photos and artwork on the pattern envelope and study the line drawings
- Look for patterns with simple shapes and few pattern pieces that are easier to construct
- Pull-on or wrap skirt patterns are easier to start with than ones with zippered or button closures
- Check fabric suggestions as it’s easier to work with a sturdy fabric like a medium weight cotton than a wiggly rayon
If you find a simple skirt pattern that you love and that fits you well, sew it up a few times to practice your skills. Before you know it you’ll be sewing invisible zips and making buttonholes!
I’ve just printed out the Bristol skirt from this months seam work magazine. Got a cotton lawn to make a wearable Muslin and then some Liberty fabric coming to make a proper one
Another pattern I would recommend, although it might need grading up for curvier sewists, is Gertie’s Easy Knit Pencil Skirt (http://www.blogforbettersewing.com/2014/12/comfiest-ever-pencil-skirt.html) from the book Gertie Sews American Casual. One pattern piece cut twice, a simple elastic waist, and a hem. If, like me, you have more curve in your hips than your butt, all the alterations can be done in the side seams.
I adore that McCalls pattern! I think they are on sale this weekend – this would be an amazing piece to add to my travel wardrobe! I used KS3777 (or maybe KS3337) all the time – it’s a gored skirt with a waistband and it’s fun for crazy prints! g
I love that New Look pattern. It’s bang on trend for this Summer’s boho look. I will second Rac Rac’s suggestion for a Mabel. It is such an easy skirt to make and wear. xx
I don’t think the Style Arc pattern is a good one for a beginner because you must be sure what is your size (it is not a multi-sized pattern). Maybe Colette’s Mabel?
I echo the sentiment that wrap skirts are a great first project. My favorite is OOP (but still available) Kwik Sew 3138 (http://kwiksew.mccall.com/k3138-products-19830.php?page_id=3017&search_control=display&list=search). I’ve never had a “Marilyn moment” with this skirt because the under wrap goes all the way across the front. The over wrap can blow as much as it wants to; the under wrap stays put. It’s wonderful. If you’re of a certain size — like I am — I recommend adding a button in the middle of the front waistband to help support the wrap, a feature I copied from a favorite RTW skirt.
Good comments, but could I comment on an elastic waist issue? Fitting/ wearing an elastic waist skirt with a booty can be a challenge. Even a high round muscular tushy can give an elastic waist the dreaded “booty lift” making the hem shorter in the back. I ended up repurposing my first elastic waist skirt because of this problem. The waist has to sit at just the right position to prevent this, and in general I think it is harder to get that right spot (and keep it) with an elastic waist than a zip.