Gingham Picnic Skirt Tutorial

There is nothing more springy than a lovely layer of gingham. This gingham a-line skirt tutorial is the perfect way to ward off those potential dreary New England spring days. I was inspired by the bright pop of color that called to me from the aisles of the fabric store.

When I spotted this gingham print, I instantly thought of the perfect all American picnic. Ever wish you could just wear a picnic. No? okay just me then.

Whether you are gingham fan or not – this tutorial will teach you how to make the perfect a-line cotton skirt. Breezy and versatile, the belt pulls in the waist so this modest style isn’t too maternal.

Materials

1.5 yards cotton gingham fabric

7 inch zipper

sewing machine and thread (how to choose a machine here)

Instructions

First things first, let’s measure your waist. Knowing this measurement is not only integral to this project – but in life. Knowing your measurements can make online shopping much easier.

Next let’s cut out those pattern pieces. I am a 24″ waist and used about a yard of fabric. I would recommend more than a yard if you have a larger waist. The waistband will be 3 inches thick, so we will cut a 26″ x 4″ rectangle from the fabric. The skirt body will be your desired length (mine 20″ and I am 5’3″) x your waist measurement x 1.5.

Fold and iron down your waistband with wrong sides inward facing (about 1/4 inch seam allowance. Pull the fabric inside out and press open.

While pinning the skirt to the waistband – Create pleats in your skirt every 2 inches or so. this doesn’t have to be perfect! no one will notice. One trick to reduce the fullness of the skirt, especially if you have wide hips, is to create pleats in the front and the back of the skirt, but spare them on your sides.