How to Sew a Tiered Skirt
A tiered skirt is a fun, stylish, and versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. The multiple layers add movement to the garment, making it perfect for dancing or just adding a bit of flair to your outfit. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of sewing your own tiered skirt step-by-step.
1. Gather materials and tools
To sew your tiered skirt, you will need:
– Fabric (preferably lightweight materials like cotton or linen)
– Matching thread
– Elastic for the waistband
– Sewing machine
– Scissors
– Measuring tape
– Pins
– Iron
2. Measure and cut fabric tiers
First, you need to determine how long you want your skirt to be and how many tiers you’d like. Measure from your waist down to the desired length. Divide this length by the number of tiers you want, and then add seam allowance (usually 0.5-1 inch) on both ends for each tier.
Once you have these measurements, start cutting your fabric into rectangles according to the calculated width and your desired length of each tier. Make sure to cut enough fabric for each layer.
3. Connect tiers one by one
Begin by taking the topmost tier and folding both short ends in on themselves about 0.5 inches, ironing them down, and sewing them in place. After that, fold over the top edge of the fabric and iron it down, creating a casing for your waistband elastic. Sew this edge as well, but make sure to leave a small opening for threading in the elastic later.
4. Join the two short ends together
Place your rectangular pieces together with their right sides facing each other and stitch along with one side seam leaving around half an inch from both edges.
5. Gather and attach
After connecting the tiers, you need to create gathers on the bottom edge of each tier to attach it to the tier below. Set your sewing machine’s stitch length to long stitches (4-5 mm) and sew a straight line about a quarter-inch away from the bottom edge of the top tier without backstitching. Repeat this stitch about half an inch below the first.
Gently pull the bobbin thread to create gathers, distributing them evenly until the width matches the top edge of the next tier below. Pin both tiers together with their right sides facing each other and sew them together using a regular stitch length.
6. Repeat for remaining tiers
Proceed through all the layers one by one until you finally have all your tiers connected.
7. Complete waistband
Measure your waist, then cut an elastic piece (adding 1-2 inches for overlap). Thread it through the casing, overlap both ends, and sew them securely with zigzag stitches.
8. Hemming
Press and fold over again half an inch on the bottom edge of the last tier and sew it using a straight stitch.
9. Press seams and finish
For a clean appearance, use an iron to press all seams open (or in tier direction). Your fashionable tiered skirt is now ready to wear!
By following these steps, you can create your own unique tiered skirt that complements your wardrobe and personal style. Enjoy your newfound skill as you twirl around in your custom-made skirt!