Making a long ballet skirt is a simple and rewarding project for beginner and experienced sewers alike. Although the length of the skirt can be adjusted to fit any dancer, a full-length skirt is usually most desired for ballet classes and performances. With some basic sewing supplies and no more than an hour or two of your time, you can create a beautiful, custom-made garment that’s sure to turn heads.
The first step in making your skirt is to measure the dancer. Measure the waist circumference and the length from the waist down to just below the knee. It’s best to measure twice and write down the measurements for accuracy.
Materials:
Once you have your measurements, gather all necessary materials. You will need approximately two yards of fabric – preferably something lightweight such as chiffon or georgette – as well as thread, pins, scissors, an elastic band that fits comfortably around the waist, and a sewing machine.
Cutting:
Using your measurements, begin by cutting out two rectangles of fabric that are double the length of your desired skirt plus 5 inches (for hems). Make sure that each rectangle is wide enough to wrap around the dancer’s waist with at least 8 inches of fabric overlapping in front.
Sewing:
Fold each rectangle in half widthwise so that its edges line up perfectly. Pin them together so they won’t move while you sew them together along one side using a 1/2 inch seam allowance. Now you have one large piece of fabric with two layers.
Next, turn one edge under by 1/4 inch and press with an iron. Turn it again by another 1/4 inch and press once more before stitching close to the inner edge using a straight stitch on your machine.
Now it’s time to attach your elastic band! Start by folding over half an inch at one end of your elastic band before pinning it securely onto one end of your skirt’s waistline. Stitch securely in place using a zigzag stitch on your machine.
Stretch out the elastic band so it fits snugly around the waistline before pinning it onto its other end on the opposite side of your skirt. Make sure there are no gaps between where you pinned it before stitching securely with a zigzag stitch like before.
< p >Finally, fold both long edges over twice by 1/2 inch each time so they meet in the middle, then press them with an iron before stitching close to their inner edge using a straight stitch on your machine.
Conclusion:
With some basic sewing supplies and patience you can make a beautiful long ballet skirt for yourself or someone special! Just remember to measure carefully; choose lightweight fabric; cut out two rectangles; sew them together; turn under one edge; attach elastic band; fold both long edges over twice; then press them with an iron before stitching close to their inner edge for a perfect finish!