One Seam or "Half Circle" skirt

I designed this skirt in 1998, when I started a LARP, and needed quick “gypsy” style skirts on the cheap. At the time, I wasn’t very sewing-savvy, so I wanted something with minimal work, that could be done either on a machine or by hand. I quickly hit upon this “Half circle” Skirt. Since I was playing a gypsy, I usually didn’t hem them, I just let them naturally fray. A simple drawstring or elastic makes up the waist.

These instructions show how to hem with fusible bonding web. However, you can do a traditional hem, or you can leave it fray out. It’s up to you and your fabric.

 

Step 1: Materials

Acquire your materials. You will need:
 At least 2 yards of fabric
 Matching or contrasting thread (bobbin for machine, if necessary)
 Pins
 Elastic or ribbon long enough to go around your hips
 Something to mark the fabric with (I use chalk)
 A pair of comfortable pants the length you want your skirt (Shorts, Capri, full pants)
 A sewing machine or needle (not pictured)
 Scissors
 Cutting place or board (Grid in background!)
 Fusible Bonding web (Optional)
 Fray-prevention product (Optional, not shown)

Two yards will give you a basic, simple skirt without too much flare, but enough fluff to be nice. The more fabric you have, the fuller the skirt.

For this Instructable, I am using just under 4 yards. I tend to shop the remnants and sale bins for these skirts, so I’m used to dealing with off-amounts. As long as the fabric folds flat, you can use it!

To prepare for layout, you need to unfold your fabric until you have the wide end.
Refold the fabric in half, so that you have the long end doubled over. Make sure the fold is at the top.
 

Comments

[KitKam]

I love this! While I can do some simple pattern stuff, I'm not really a fan of measuring and patterning and whatnot and this method just makes it so simple and fun! Great job! :D

[grooooovy]

This looks fun- easy and quick too, I think I'll try it!

[scoochmaroo]

Great technique for a quick, simple skirt!