Pencil Skirt Sewing Pattern – (How to Sew?)

Last Updated on August 15, 2023

Pencil Skirt Sewing Pattern: Hello, my dear sewing friends! It’s Tersia Jager here with another sewing pattern sewing guide, and today I invite you to join me on a journey into the world of sewing darts and crafting close-fitting garments. If the idea of sewing darts and working with fitted garments sounds intimidating or stressful, fear not!

Pencil Skirt Sewing Pattern

Easy Pencil skirt sewing pattern Free Guide

Today, we will start with a super simple and straightforward project: drafting a pencil skirt block. You’ll be amazed at how easy and approachable this process can be. Even if you’re not a pencil skirt enthusiast, creating this block will offer valuable insights into dart placement, manipulation, and sewing techniques for form-fitting garments.  

Essential Measurements

Before we begin, let’s gather the three crucial measurements you’ll need to draft your pencil skirt block. Don’t worry; these measurements are simple and easy to take:

  • Waist Measurement: Measure around the narrowest part of your waist.
  • Hip Measurement: Measure around the fullest part of your hips.
  • Garment Length: Measure from your waist down to your desired skirt length, whether that’s knee-length or shorter.

With these three measurements in hand, let’s move forward and create your very own pencil skirt block.

Step-by-Step Drafting Guide

So, let’s dive right in!

Creating the Basic Rectangle

Creating the Basic Rectangle
Image Source: Thoughtful Creativity – CRAFT, SEW, DIY

Begin by drafting a rectangle on your pattern paper. One side of the rectangle should correspond to your desired garment length, and the other side should be half of your hip measurement.

Marking Dart Placement

Marking Dart Placement
Image Source: Thoughtful Creativity – CRAFT, SEW, DIY

To create a shapely silhouette, mark one-third of the way from the waist on both the front and back pattern pieces. These markings will help you place the darts correctly.

Contouring the Side Seams

Contouring the Side Seams
Image Source: Thoughtful Creativity – CRAFT, SEW, DIY

Determine the amount by which you want to decrease the side seams. Divide this number by four and reduce each side seam accordingly. Make sure to curve in the waistline slightly to achieve a natural look.

Adding Darts: Front darts are shorter than back darts, typically. Draw straight lines from the dart markings to the waistline and mark the width of each dart (usually about an inch). The length of the darts is determined by dividing the distance from the waistline to the hip by thirds for the front dart and two-thirds for the back dart.

Cutting and Assembling

Cutting and Assembling
Image Source: Thoughtful Creativity – CRAFT, SEW, DIY

Cut out your pattern pieces and baste them together with loose hand stitches. This will allow you to try on your pattern and make necessary adjustments.

Fitting and Adjustments

Pencil Skirt Sewing Pattern
Image Source: Thoughtful Creativity – CRAFT, SEW, DIY

Try on the basted pattern to assess the fit. Pin any necessary adjustments, such as lowering the waist or taking in the side seams. Mark these adjustments with a removable fabric marker.

Transferring Adjustments

Carefully undo the basted seams and transfer the adjustments you made onto your paper pattern. This step ensures that your pattern accurately reflects the changes you want to make.

Adding Wearable Ease and Seam Allowance

Lastly, add a wearable ease allowance to ensure you can move comfortably in the skirt. Additionally, include a seam allowance, typically around half an inch, to account for sewing.

Final Thoughts

Congratulations! You’ve now successfully created your own pencil skirt block. This versatile pattern can serve as the foundation for various pencil skirt designs. Remember, the goal of this tutorial is to empower you with the skills and confidence to create beautifully tailored garments.

While pencil skirts may have their roots in classic office attire, you can infuse your unique style and creativity to make them stand out in any setting. Stay tuned for future tutorials.

Thank you for joining me on this sewing adventure! I hope you found this tutorial both enlightening and enjoyable. Until next time, happy sewing, my thoughtful friends! See you soon!

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