Absolute Beginner’s Wrap Skirt–Part II

When I last left you, all of your pattern pieces had been cut out and you needed to transfer the pattern markings.

So, on to Step 3.

Step 3: Making Darts

Transfer the darts to the wrong side of fabric. Hint: Use a tracing wheel and tracing paper for this.

Fold the dart and pin. Be sure pins line up on the seam line.

Starting at the top edge, stitch darts on Skirt Front and Skirt Back pieces.

Do not back stitch when you get to the dart bottom; instead, tie it off. It will lay much flatter.

Press Skirt Front darts toward the center.

Press Skirt Back darts toward the center back (the edge that will be hemmed).

Step 4: Hemming Skirt Back

On a flat surface (like an ironing board) fold under the un-notched edge of Skirt Back 1/2”. Press.
 

Fold under a second 1/2” hem and press. {This is called a double-folded hem which you see on jeans}

Stitch along the folded edge. Repeat with the other Skirt Back piece.

Step 5: Sewing the Side Seams

With right sides together pin Skirt Front to one of the Skirt Back pieces.
 


Stitch together side seam. Be sure to back stitch at the beginning and the end. Press seams open.
 

Repeat with the other Skirt Back piece.

It’s starting to look like a real skirt! All it needs is a waistband.



Before putting on the Waistband, you may want finish your two inside seams to prevent unraveling threads.

Here are some ways to do this:

Trimmed with Pinking Shears:  Sew your seam, and then trim the edges with pinking shears.  Watch for sales and get the pinking shears half off.

Zigzagged and Trimmed:  Sew your seam, then go back and stitch a zigzag seam beside it.  Trim up to edge of the zigzag stitch.

The next two seam finishes require a serger {a machine that finishes the seam for you}.

Serged Raw Edges:  Prior to attaching the Skirt Front/Skirt Back pieces, serge down the sides, creating a clean edge.

Serged Edge:  This will require you knowing ahead of time that the skirt will fit.  If you are confident, then serge the entire seam.  Very fast, very easy {unless you need to unstitch}.

If you are interested in purchasing a serger, check at a local sewing machine dealer and see if they have any used ones.  You can usually pick up a used one for $100-$150.  And, the dealer will teach you how to use it.

Now, take a break, relax and have a cup of tea before moving on to Step 6 (The Waistband).