I used to think that a gathered skirt was the easiest skirt to sew. But I may have changed my tune. A circle skirt is possibly even easier!….especially if you leave the elastic exposed.
If you’ve ever made a poodle skirt before, it’s the same concept. Your fabric is cut in a circle, like a donut. Then the elastic is sewn on top to create a waistband. The circle hangs right at your waist and allows the fabric to drape beautifully around you.
Once you’ve created your pattern, you can whip up 4 skirts in an hour! Make them for your kids! Make one for you! Make one for every birthday gift coming up. These are definitely my new go-to present.
Okay, let’s get started.
(NOTE: Additional tips for making an ADULT SIZE SKIRT are at the very end of this post)
What you need (for a little girl’s skirt):
* about 1 yard of fabric
* appx 3/4 yard of 2-inch wide elastic
FABRICS to use:
* Rayon
* Polyester Charmuese
* Simple Cotton
* Thin Corduroy
* Lightweight Wool
Many fabrics will work for this project. Lightweight fabrics will be more bouncy, and synthetic rayons and polyester will slink and spin around beautifully. The gray fabric we’re using today is rayon with a subtle visible weave pattern.
FOR WOMEN: Avoid fabrics that are Medium weight or thicker as they may add extra bulk around your hips. In the polka dot skirt above, I used a silky polyester charmeuse (feels like a silk scarf). It drapes beautifully and keeps the padding down.
ELASTIC:
Wide elastic from fabric stores typically comes 2 inches or 3 inches wide; white or black in color. I recommend 2-inch wide for a girl’s skirt , and 3-inch for an adult.
If you’d like to add a colorful twist to your skirt, check out our easy Tutorial for Dyeing Elastic HERE.
Measure around your waist. You don’t want it to be so tight that she can’t breathe. But if the elastic’s too loose on her waist, it will look funny. So measure as precise as you can and add an extra 1 inch for your seam allowance. For Lucy’s skirt, she measures 19 inches around the waist, plus an extra inch = 20 inches of elastic.
PATTERN:
This requires a bit of geometry but don’t worry, we’ll break it down for you. I’ve tried to keep it as simple as possible with a small diagram and a few definitions:
Circumference = the entire distance around a circle (in this case, your waist length, plus 2 inches)
Radius = the distance from the center of the circle to the outside of the circle
pi (that funny symbol below) = 3.14 (approximately)
You need to figure out the radius so you can easily draw a circle. If you remember from math class: Circumference = 2 x pi x r (radius). I’ve flipped the equation around a bit and came up with this diagram:
Let me break it down a little more:
* Measure your waist
* Add two inches to that number. You need these extra two inches so the fabric has “give” and will actually “stretch” when it’s sewn on to the elastic. It will create a very subtle gather to the skirt but will make it easier to get the skirt on and off. This will make more sense as you sew.
* Take your “waist + 2 inches” measurement and divide it by 6.28, and you have the radius!
* In Lucy’s case….
Her waist is 19 inches, plus 2 inches = 21 inches divided by 6.28 = 3.3 inch radius.
(NOTE: One method for drawing your circle is to tie string or yarn to a pencil, hold the string in the corner of your paper and draw, just like you did in grade school with a compass. For me it was easier to use a ruler, which I’ll show you below. So do what works best for you!)
* You only need to draw 1/4 of a donut circle for your pattern, so….
* Take a piece of paper (or many pieces of paper taped together).
*In the bottom left corner, at the right angle, place the end of a ruler and measure and mark the radius in various places. It might be hard to figure out on a ruler where 3.3 inches is, but do your best. Since the skirt has a small gather to it, you have room for error.
Then connect the dots to draw 1/4 of a circle! Just free hand it. With enough markings, you can draw it pretty well.
* Decide how long your want your skirt to be. Lucy’s gray skirt hits her about an inch or two above the knee, and her skirt length is about 9 1/2 inches.. Add an extra inch for the hem and the top seam (near the elastic). It’s always best to make it slightly longer than you think, so you have room for error. You can always cut length off as you create the hem.
* With your ruler on the edge of the circle just drawn, measure and mark the skirt length in various spots on your pattern, and
draw another 1/4 circle:
Now you have a donut! (or at least 1/4 of it). Cut off the center circle and your pattern is ready.
Let’s cut the fabric….
* Fold your fabric in 4ths, so you have a right-angled corner to work with. Lay your 1/4 donut pattern on top, so that the edges hit the edges of your fabric. Mark it and cut!
When you’re done, it should look like this (the skirt is folded in half):
First, finish off the top of the skirt. Serge around the waist. If you don’t have a serger, you can zigzag the edge, leave it raw, or iron the waist down 1/4 of an inch and iron it down another 1/4 of an inch. It just depends on your preference. Personally I don’t like any raw edges in my garment since it starts to fray as you wash.
When you’re done it should look like this:
Let’s sew the elastic waistband.
With the elastic folded in half, sew it together, using a 1/2 inch seam allowance:
Next, if you prefer, serge each seam edge separately to seal off the raw edges. Do not serge the seam together since you’re going to be fanning it out.
Fan the seam out and sew down each side. This will help the waistband lay flatter on your skirt.
I use the inside of my presser foot to guide me down, so I’m sewing evenly on each side.
When you’re done, it should look like this on the right side:
Add a label if you’d like and you’re ready to attach the waistband to your skirt. It’s always best to try the elastic band on your child before sewing on the skirt. I made this mistake and when I tried the finished skirt on Lucy, the elastic ended up being one inch too big and I had to take the whole thing apart.
As you can see, the elastic is slightly smaller than the fabric waist. This is good! If they were exactly the same size and you sewed the fabric onto the elastic, you would never be able to stretch the elastic at all (unless you had used stretchy fabric). It would snap the thread as you tried to stretch the skirt on and off. Thus, the extra fabric length will give a slight gather to the skirt and create some “give”.
Start pinning the elastic band to the skirt. Find the middle of the back of the skirt and pin that first. Pin the elastic so that it hangs about 1/4 of an inch on top of the skirt.
Like this:
Then flip the skirt over and pin it in the middle of the front of the skirt:
Then pin the elastic down on both sides of the skirt.
It should look something like this:
Then continue cutting the gaps in half by pinning the elastic down. You can pin as much or as little as you like.
I usually pin down about 8 spots:
Now let’s sew it on. The important part here is that you need to stretch the elastic as you go, so that it’s taut with the fabric. Use both hands as you go, pulling it straight in the front and the back and sew from pin to pin, stretching it bits at a time.
Here’s a side view. This is how it looks relaxed:
And here’s how it should look when pulled taut:
You’ll need your hand in the back to help guide everything through.
You can use a zigzag or a straight stitch. I’ve tried both and prefer a straight-stitch because it looks a bit cleaner. When you’re done it should look like this on the outside:
and this on the inside:
We’re almost done! We just need to hem the skirt. Trim any uneven spots around the bottom of the skirt or if you want it to be shorter, cut off the extra length.
Serge around the bottom of the skirt. If you don’t have a serger, iron the edge over 1/4 of an inch and continue to the next step.
Iron the edge of the skirt under. I prefer a very small hem on this skirt so that it bounces and twirls better.
Then sew the hem down, about 1/8 inch from the fabric edge.
And you’re done!
Try it on,
Give it a whirl!
And enjoy a little treat.
Happy spinning!
Tips for making an Adult version:
* I followed the same instructions outlined in this tutorial.
* I recommend sticking to very lightweight fabrics. This skirt was made with a slinky polyester charmeuse (feels similar to a silky scarf) and it drapes beautifully. I made another version, which I’ll share later, with a thicker wool tweed and it adds a bit more bulk to the hip area. With Lucy, that’s not a problem. With me, I’d like to minimize the padding.
* 60-inch wide fabric works best. Depending on your waist size and the length of your skirt you can cut an entire circle using 60-inch wide fabric. My circle pattern just barely made it and took about 1 1/2 yards of fabric (I purchased 2 yards just to be safe).
* If you have 45-inch wide fabric, or if your circle is bigger than the fabric, you can cut two semi-circles and have two seams down the sides. You’ll have to do a little math to figure how many yards of fabric you need. Make your pattern first and then work out the math. I would recommend using fabrics with a pattern to disguise the seams.
* The dimensions of my skirt are:
Elastic waistband – 29 inches
Radius – 4.75 inches (appx)
Length – 22 inches (long enough to hit my knees).
I typically wear a size 4 or 6 in skirts.
Happy Sewing!
{ 203 comments… read them below or add one }
Does it matter how big a piece of paper you use for your pattern?
I just used notebook paper and taped the sheets together. Tracing paper large enough for 1/2 a skirt is very expensive. this worked well and was a way to recycle some old notepads
I used wrapping paper and it worked well!
I found a roll of brown craft paper at the dollar general for a little over a dollar. It’s a little heavier, but it’s worked for me!
yes, it has to be the size of a quarter of the skirt
I used some paper from my daughter’s easel
Brown bags from the grocery store work well, too. Just cut them open and use the blank side to trace on.
Dana,
Thanks for posting such a great tutorial. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, and the poodle skirt I made for my 9 year old for the Father/Daughter Sock Hop turned out better than I could have hoped! I may have to invest in a serger now…
Hi and thank you fro the tutorial. This is such a cute skirt. I do have a questions, though. I am making 14 of these for costumes and need to know how to handle a bigger hip measurement than the give in the waist will allow. there seems to be about 4 inches of “give” in the wasit as written, but in some cases I need 5 or 6. Can you assist? thanks so much!
You’ll have to leave the waistband open. I cut a 4-5 inch slit in the centre back, turn the edges under a quarter of an inch, then use two skirt hook and eyes on the turned-under edges of the elastic waistband.
https://www.agreatnotion.com/product.php?cName=Snaps_and_Closures&pName=Pants__Skirts_Hooks__Eyes&categoryId=2000238&productId=2459
Great tutorial. I never thought to use elastic for the waistband. Did you know that the hole in the end of your tape measure is perfect for marking out the circle for the pattern. Just pin the tape measure through the hole at the corner of your paper/fabric and work around with the tape measure.
Thanks for the tutorial. I just made one for my daughter’s school sock hop, and she LOVES it. Her sister’s is next. Question though…any advice on lining the skirt (technique/fabric)? I’d like to make one for myself with a light cotton I have.
for a lining…..make two skirts and then sew them together at the top when you sew the elastic on. I would leave the hems separate, so it’s like a slip. But if that bothers you just hem them together at the end.
Thanks so much, Dana! So nice of you to reply right now…you must be so busy with baby Clara! Congratulations!
What fun, I can’t wait to try this – quick question, do you think a 1.5 inch elastic will work out ok – I found some really cute colors/patterns, but only in 1.5 inch?
Thank you for you time and help!!
forgot to mention – it’s for my 7 year old daughter.
sure! You can use 1 inch or 1.5 inch or 2 inch. Whatever you have on-hand.
That’s good to know. I only have 1.5″ at home right now too.
Thanks for the great tutorial. When you’re hemming the bottom of the skirt, how do you get the hem not to twist (as mine is doing) as you go along?
mine twists just a little bit but I don’t mind how it looks
The problem that comes up with hemming a circle skirt is r/t the fact(s) that it is largely cut on the bias and that as the fabric slants out it gets wider. In order to overcome some of the twisting you can try two things. One, if you are finishing the edges with a serger with differential feed, tighten your stitch so that it puckers just a tiny bit (only for the hem, not the top where you will attach elastic), this ease will pull the hem in just slightly and make the hem a bit easier. Two, if you don’t have a serger, you can use a seam along the bottom of the skirt with a slightly tighter tension which will do the same thing. When pressing the hem up use a LOT of steam to press the fabric into submission. If you are new to sewing and don’t know what bias means, it is the diagonal on woven (not knit) fabric and is much more stretchy than the straight or cross grain of the fabric.
Does it matter how big a piece of paper you use for your pattern?
just needs to be big enough for the skirt size you want. You can tape together standard 8 1/2 x 11 pieces of paper to get a larger piece….or use cheap muslin to cut out a pattern.
I get a roll of freezer paper at the grocery store and use that. It’s big enough even for most plus-size pattern pieces and the wax coating on the back of the paper adds durability and helps prevent tearing. You can get a lot of patterns from a roll of freezer paper. It’s also relatively inexpensive – less than $6 for a 75 sq. ft. roll, even on Amazon.com.
You can usually get a roll of the pare doctors offices use on the exam tables for about $8. I’ve found it at 2 different medical supply stores. I’m not sure how many feet/yards are on a roll but I had a roll last about 6 years, including pattern design classes at WSU.
You can also go to your local newspaper and they usually give you the end rolls from printing for free…… they work great for packing paper and i’m thinking for this too…… there is usually a ton of paper left on these “end rolls” i even use them for crafts for my kids….
What a darling skirt. Going to try and make this for my daughter today. She saw a picture of this and wanted it above all the others I showed her. Thanks for a great tutorial. I looked at some other circle skirt tutorials and yours was the most clear. Thanks!
what a good tutorial. I breezed through this because your directions were wonderfully explained.
Love this skirt! Where did you find 60″ fabric?? I have looked and can’t find any (other than silk and flannel)!
the silk polka dot skirt fabric was 60 inch. But the cotton girl’s skirts were probably 45 inch.
Does it matter if the elastic is at the hips and not at the waist?
whatever is most comfortable for you!
thanks for the help! I am certainly going to try!
Made it! Looks lovely! thnx
I made one of these today and it went so well. Thanks so much for the pattern and tips. It made it so much easier than trying to eyeball it myself. I used an up-cycled elastic waistband from a pair of my daughter’s old shorts.
Thanks!!
Is there another way you could do the waist instead of using elastic waistband? How would you go about doing a waist similar to you simple skirt tutorial?
I love your website, by the way. Spent hours last night and this morning just looking at your tutorials. And your pictures are fantastic too!
You could sew a separate waistband to the top of the skirt with the same fabric and then string elastic through the waistband casing. Look at the Market Skirt tutorial for details on that sort of waistband:
http://www.danamadeit.com/2008/07/tutorial-the-market-skirt.html
Thanks!
I was wondering the same thing! My daughter cannot stand the feeling of elastic on her skin. Thanks!
Thanks so much for this tutorial! I just posted a link to this from my blog. Your directions were very easy to follow and I LOVED the way it turned out! This is the first article of clothing that I have made for myself and I can’t wait to wear it in the Spring. Thanks again!
Awesome idea with the tape measure!
…and thanks to Dana for the skirt tutorial…LOvE IT!
M
Hi ! Having just lost 145 lbs., I was looking for an easy pattern for a dance skirt…EUREKA ! Did I say I just had my 58th birthday in February ?! Thanx and be blessed ! Like Ahhnold said, I willl be back !
Where do you get your clothing tags? I really want to order some for the clothing I make for my little girl but can only find Iron Ons, I would like the sew ons like you have.
Thank you so much for this easy skirt Dana! My daughter is having a Little Einsteins birthday party and REALLY wanted to dress like June from the show. I was struggling with how to make the dress when one of my readers said I should check you site and man am I glad she did. This skirt with the wide waist band TOTALLY can mimic the June dress. It worked perfectly and my daughter LOVES the outfit.
You can see mine here: http://www.733blog.com/2012/03/handmade-twill-tape-labels.html
I even made some labels to add to the back like you do and love the look.
This is lovely! I made two of these, but I added pockets to one of them. I put a pocket into each side seam of the skirt so they are hidden. I have been getting so many compliments! I’ve been telling everyone about your wonderful tutorials, keep up the great work!
http://thatmorrisfamily.blogspot.com/2012/03/twirl-skirts-little-girls-dream-come.html
Love this and even more my daughter loves it more! She is dreaming up all sorts of fun color’s to make these in
Thanks so much!
F.U.N. is what I will be having tomorrow afternoon! ( :
v v nice and simple instructions… I definitely try it.
Just learning how to sew (women’s clothes) and this is the best tutorial I’ve read on the internet yet. Thanks!!
Thank you for the step by step……math, geometry, and anything in that category was not my subject lol. I can not get onto my circle skirt. I have been dying to do this for my girls for a while now…again thanks!!!!
thank so much. made this last night and it tuned out awesome. thank you again.
Great tutorial! It worked wonderfully and my daughter hasn’t stopped twirling yet!
http://thoroughlymodernhousewife.blogspot.com/2012/03/few-days-ago-i-posted-this-tutorial-for.html
Thank you soooo much for this awesome easy tutorial! I made 2 of these for my 6 yr old daughter and she LOVES them!
Thanks to your tutorial I have sewn 2 skirts for me
http://multifacesdesign.blogspot.it/2012/04/gonna-ruota-con-tessuto-ikea.html
Thank very much
Do you think the pre-smocked fabrc they have at Jo-Anns would work for the waist? My daughter is having spirit weel next week and one of the days is decade day. She wants to wear something 50s inspired.
This is brilliant, thank you so much for sharing!
that is amazing! first ever skirt I’ve made!! it look so good! thanks!
These links might work better:
http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m187/sammykate222/PenguinSkirt1.jpg
http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m187/sammykate222/CircleSkirt1.jpg
Ohhhh its great…. pritty and practice…. thanks for sharing… Excuse my bad english… i’m know…. ;OD
Kisses
Thanks for the tutorial – I’m a complete novice so I’m glad to have it all spelled out for me – but am I missing when the sides of the skirt get sewn together? Do I do it before sewing the skirt to the waistband??? perhaps I just have preggo brain and missed that step!
I’m no expert Kylie, but I’m pretty sure you do not sew any sides. It’s already a circle and together when you cut the pattern. Hope that helps!
I loved remixing your (AWESOME) tutorial for Project Run & Play! Thanks, ~Stephanie
http://pinaforesandpinwheels.blogspot.com/2012/04/its-back.html
Love it and I am NOT very good with a sewing machine. I had some trouble with the waistband, but that is just because I need more practice.
To simplify things, I made the skirt out of a t-shirt material, folded it in 4 and cut from the corner. Then I sewed on the waistband – no hemming, no serge. Perfect beginners’ project with instant gratification.
Thank you!
ps – hope the pic attaches.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/535510_3369823721179_1136795701_3140171_580506562_n.jpg
so pretty! nothing better than a skirt with a massive twirl capability! I’ve linked to you here:
http://dollarstoremom.com/2012/04/pinterest-picks-35/
çok güzel açıklamışsınız çok faydalı oldu teşekkürler
Thank you so much for this tutorial. I just have a quick question that I am hoping you can answer. I want to add tulle under the circle skirt to make it more frilly. Its for my nieces birthday outfit. How would you suggest adding in tulle? Measure it out like the cirlce skirt and add it to the waist band and then add a lining so it doesnt make the legs itch? Thank you so much!
My daughter needed a costume for school tomorrow… Nothing like getting news the night before. Anyway, I have not sewn anything in over 15 years. I used a cotton sheet and elastic I cut out of old yoga pants. I followed the directions except, instead of making a pattern on paper, I drew on the wrong side of the fabric with washable marker. The skirt turned out simply amazing. I will be making more of these for everyday use.
I made my 2 year old the circle skirt. I love it! So easy and cute! But, question. I want to make myself one, but I want it around 27 in. long, so I need to do the 2 semi circles. How exactly do you do the 2 semi circles? Maybe I’m dumb, but I can’t figure it out. Thanks!
yes, you can do it in 2 semi-circles and sew them together with 2 seams.
Just make a semi circle using the same math in the tutorial. Maybe the baby circle skirt will help it make more sense?
http://www.danamadeit.com/2012/04/celebrate-baby-tutorial-and-pattern-little-baby-circle-skirt.html
hi Dana, really thankful for this tutorial! I made one for my friend,but it was a dress actually,all those super duper math really worked! Thank you! But now i need a lil help here,im planning to make circle skirt using chiffon,and ofcourse the lining,what do you think should i use,invisble zipper or elastic?thank you Dana
hi Dana, really thankful for this tutorial! I made one for my friend,but it was a dress actually,all those super duper math really worked! Thank you! But now i need a lil help here,im planning to make circle skirt using chiffon,and ofcourse the lining,what do you think should i use,invisble zipper or elastic or button?thank you Dana
dana,really thankful for this tutorial! I made a polkadot dress with circle skirt for my friend,and she loves it! Now i need a lil help,im planning to make circle skirt using chiffon and lining ofcourse,what should i use best,zipper or elastic or button? Thank you Dana!
This is so cute! I have some 1 inch ruffle elastic that I want to use…do you think it would work this??
This was such a fun and easy project! It gave me a reason to dig out the old serger that I am terrified of! http://whatdoesshedoallday.com/2012/04/26/nap-time-craft-time-circle-skirt/
Hi There! Just finished making my 17 yr old daughter a skirt for DECADE Day at school. (She originally wanted a Poodle Skirt, but saw Polka Dot material like your yellow/black skirt so decided to that instead, plus she wanted it with a little tulle under it.) Me being a perfectionist, it turned out okay. My daughter however loved it! My tulle didn’t turn out as I quite expected. How WOULD you add tulle to it to make it a little ‘fluffy’?
I would add a another layer under the skirt (sew the two layers together at the waist) and make the bottom layer similar to the layered skirt Tutorial (http://www.danamadeit.com/2012/03/tutorial-the-layered-skirt.html), with the top section being cotton, and then tulle layers to it. Of course you probably need something under that too so it’s not too scratchy. But that’s where I’d start. Maybe that’s what you did…..
thank you, it’s beautiful and i want that you give us the explecation i n french
Dana, I am hoping you can help with a question I have. I have been making skirts using that adorable pre-ruffled fabric like the yellow you used on the cute swimsuit, and attaching an exposed elastic waistband. My problem is that I gather the ruffled fabric before attaching it to the elastic with a twin needle and because of the bulk of all the fabric, my stitches keep skipping and it looks horrible! I know I could stretch the elastic as I go and attach to the fabric that way instead of gathering it, but then I can’t get the fulness I desire. Any tips?!? (Sorry if this is confusing.) I’ve looked everywhere for help!!
my sewing machine was given to me and it is a singer merritt 2404 and in order to have different sewing patterns you need these discs…and i dont have them. so my machine only does a straight pattern. will that be a problem?
I’m not really sure what you mean.
You just need a standard stitch to do 95% of the sewing projects you’ll probably want to do. That’s pretty much all I use! Hope that helps
- Dana
Thanks so much for this great tutorial!!!
I made the cutest (and quickest) skirt for my daughter.
Now that I see how great it looks I’m going to try one for myself!
http://sunnysewing.blogspot.com/2012/05/circle-skirt-using-design-by-made.html
Hello. I’m making one of these for my little one as part of my ‘stash busting’ sewing weekend. My fabric has finally reached critical mass and needs reduced! Anyhow, just wanted to share another idea for your readers…instead of wide elastic at the waist you could use rib knit. Depending on the rib count you want it to be about 4 inches less than your actual waist size as it stretches a lot! To use rib knit – cut a piece of rib knit double your waist band width, your desired length (the easiest way to do this is actually to make the waist band and try it on the child), sew the rib together to make a continuous loop and then fold it in half with the wrong sides together. Mark the 1/4 round marks on the skirt and the rib knit. Align the rib knit raw edges to the skirt raw edges right sides together matching those 1/4 marks. Serge the rib to the skirt – this is easiest done with the rib on top, you will stretch the rib between those quarter marks. Fold up the waistband and press the seam toward the skirt, iron carefully and try not to touch the rib, the top stitch around the top of the skirt through the waistband seam. If you look around you can find rib in all sorts of bright colors (but buy it when you find it colored as sometimes I can only find white). Viola!
Hi! I made your market skirt for my 7 months baby and it came out great!
Now I want to make this one but I have a little problem with my daughter’s measurement. She is a kind of chunky girl so her waist is 17 3/4 inchs but her thighs is 23 1/2 inchs. So if i make the waistband wth her actual waist size, the skirt won’t be able to go up any higher than her knees. Can you give me any advice?
I would really appreciate if you could give me any advice:) Thank you!
Thanks so much for a great tutorial! I used it to make a bedroom adult version for a friend and linked back to your easy to follow instructions!
http://heidischatze.blogspot.com/2012/05/patty-gets-jacket.html
Thank you for this pattern! Love it! I made it for my daughters graduation! SOOOO Cute and easy! The best twirler we have!
http://crookedhaylo.blogspot.com/2012/05/twirl-away-little-girls.html
Thank you for this pattern. I sewed two skirts for my nieces and they love it.
have been searching all over for a circle skirt but have not found one that fit what i was looking for, but then i found your tut and was able to make the skirt of my dreams for a fun pool party im hosting this weekend!!! cant wait to debut it!!
the elastic dyeing was nooooo joke, but will post feedback on that post…
I love this skirt! Now that I have the pattern drafted on my freezer paper it is even quicker to pop one out! I just finished up a fun owl skirt for my daughter.
http://sunnysewing.blogspot.com/2012/05/owl-circle-skirt-with-matching-shirt.html
Thanks so much Dana!!
Loved this tutorial! I cheated and picked up a circle tablecloth at the thrift store (half off!). Boy, was it quick to sew up! My skirt turned out great and was already “pre-hemmed”! It limits the length, but my 68″ round tablecloth with a 6.05 radius waist cut-out (ha, do the math backwards if you really need to know my waist size!) hits a few inches above the ankle– of course I’m only 5 foot!
Sew easy!
I’ll be linking up to your tutorial when I post this on my blog! Thanks!
Thanks for the tutorial! I made one of these for me, and I have the fabric for 2 more! I have found that a twin bed sheet gives me enough fabric for the length that I want. (I’m 5’5″) It hits right below the knee. I would also recommend using a non-directional print. My first one is a striped fabric, and since it is all on the bias the stripes hang straight up and down on the sides and sideways on the front and back. It doesn’t bother me enough to not wear it, but enough that I wouldn’t do it again!
I’ve been drooling over this pattern/tutorial for quite awhile, and am finally giving it a go today!
i made the pattern but for the life of me i don’t know what i’m doing wrong when i cut the fabric… i lay it in 1/4ths (i think?!?!) but when i cut it it comes out in two pieces instead of the one big circle. i’m just going to sew the two side seams, but jeepers, i feel so stupid that i can’t figure this out! maybe more coffee will help…..
can anyone help?
Bummer! Sorry
Okay, don’t cut on the folds (or the straight part of the pattern. Place the 1/4 circle pattern ON the folds and then just cut the circular parts.
Good luck!
I love this pattern, but I keep having trouble with the elastic waistband. I stretch it as I go, but the stitches aren’t straight, they end up rising up and down in spots and it looks messy. Any tips?
that happens to me sometimes but it isn’t always obvious when I use a similar thread color.
I had the fabric and knew I wanted to make it a circle skirt, but waited to cut it out for a few months because I had convinced myself the math part would be too complicated. A few weeks ago I just sat down and did it and it was so much easier than I thought it would be! Thanks for an easy-to-follow tutorial!
http://sarahdudik.wordpress.com/2012/06/07/circle-wrap-skirt/
I love this! I have been looking for an easy 50′s style skirt pattern. I didn’t want to make one that I had to wear a petty coat under. This will be perfect! And I bet I could easily turn it into a dress pattern if I wanted! Man the wheels are turning now! Thanks so much!
where did you find that yellow elastic?
I dyed it. check out the tutorial here:
http://www.danamadeit.com/2008/07/tutorial-dyeing-elastic.html
I purchased rot dye but they only had it in liquid . Does rot liquid dye work the same as the liquid dye in your elastic dye tutorial
If someone could tell me how much fabric I need that would be helpful because I’ve been using1 1/3 yards and that hasn’t made the length I want.
Thanks for the tutorial! I made it in a few hours & it was pretty easy! I ended up buying 2 & 1/2 yards of 58″ red & white polka dot fabric & had just enough for the skirt & then some. I would have liked it to be a tad bit longer but I couldn’t find any good 60″ fabric at Joann’s (& the one I got was one sale for only $3 a yard)…
Dana, I’m not a beginning sewer, but I can not figure out how to get my stitches to look nice when I stitch on the elastic while it’s stretched. Once the elastic is relaxed, the stitches pucker and look like the tension is way too loose. I’ve tried making the tension tighter (or even using a stretch stitch) but then the thread does not stretch and have any give with the elastic. What am I doing wrong? Thanks.
Any advice for how to cut a layered circle skirt? I want to layer some tulle over a satin circle skirt, but cannot figure out how much fabric I need or how to cut it.
What if:
1) I wanted to add some bloomers underneath? Would I sew them in right under the elastic?
2) I make the skirt and then my hubby tells me to not buy anything else that week?
Got any elastic substitutes? Would a waistband made from stretch knit out of my stash work?
This is the CUTEST skirt! I would like to make this myself, but waist bands usually need to go higher on me. I’m going to try it and see what happens!
By the way, I saw that purl soho now carries a line of colored elastic. thanks for the less expensive alternative! you’re ahead of the trends!
I found a nice (yet expensive) circle skirt in denim with no waistband showing.
I know it is more of a thicker fabric. Would I be able to remake it? Do you have any tips with using denim or hiding the waistband?
Ok, so I’m new to sewing. I tried this tutorial and my daughters skirt is really cute!!!! It did not come out quite like yours though… I had to add a layer because I cut it too short…but I was able to recover.
When I pull skirts on according to measurements, as it may fit my waist, it will not pass my hips. Any tips?
Thank you so much for this! This is one of the best tutorials I have seen so far. I could follow all the instructions very easily and had not a single question in mind because all the information was just there. Thank you! I love my skirt and I linked back to your tutorial….
Did you dye that dark elastic for the yellow skirt? If so, how? I tried to dye some elastic brown, but it turned out a kind of purple color, and I let it soak overnight…
How much fabric do you need for a women’s skirt?
Depends on how wide your fabric is. If it’s 45 inches (that’s pretty much the standard), you’ll need anywhere from three to four yards — and you’ll have to cut semi-circles or quarter panels/gores, depending on the fabric’s pattern. If your fabric is 60 inches, you’re looking at two to three yards to be able to cut the circle.
Your best bet is to find an old queen or king size top sheet — buy one at a thrift store if necessary — and use it as a trial run. Follow all the directions above and you should end up with a circle like Dana described. Once you have this, you can use it as your pattern piece. That way you can open it up to cut semi-circles or fold it over to cut quarter panels/gores (or use as Dana describes if your fabric is wide enough).
This DOES work. I spent this past weekend doing just that. Due to differing yardage and a doh!moment when I bought stripes, I ended up cutting quarter panels out of three pieces of fabric and semi-circles out of the other four. Just be sure to smooth the fabric pattern piece very carefully so you don’t have too many wrinkles.
Also, you may need to add a couple of inches to your waist length to allow for seam allowances and still have extra give for the elastic. I’m adding zippers to most of mine so it’s not a big issue, but if you’re using elastic it’s definitely something to keep in mind.
I love your explanation. Very clear. However, i couldn’t view the pictures. Will really love to see. Thank you.
Thank you. I later saw the pictures as i was about signing out. Thanks
Love this! I’ve been Pin’ing you for a little while now. Thank you!
Hi,
Your tutorials are great! And I love this skirt. I’m following you from Norway. I have a question about your elastic. Is it knitted, woven or braided? I’m looking to buy elastic I can stitch on to fabric like your circle skirt. I believe there are some elastic you can’t stitch through? I’ve tried google’ing, but I’m confused. Your elastic looks very nice in the close up picture where you fan out the elastic and stitch it down. What kind of elastic is it?
Thanks.
There are many different colors and patterns of elastic banding available at ruffle fabric.com
This was the best tutorial ever! This is the very first article of clothing I have ever sewn and it looks awesome! Thanks:)
Okay, so I want to make this really bad, but I’m afraid that I’ll make it then it won’t fit over my hips. My waist is 30, then my hips are 36. If I do it according to those instructions (add 2 inches), will they fit over my hips?
did you ever try? I was thinking the same thing…hips > waist, bust > waist, how to get it on?
This is THE BEST skirt tutorial I’ve read…and I’ve read many before! Thank you for the clear step-by-step instructions. I look forward to making this skirt.
Loved this! It worked perfectly without any trouble, thanks for the tutorial
It’s so much fun to twirl!
Loved your tutorial. I want to try adding a waistband as you suggest in your market skirt tutorial. My granddaughter has the same waist measurement as the circle skirt example above – 19″. How long should my waistband casing piece need to be? Thanks so much
Nice and simple step by step tutorial.Thanks for sharing.
Dana,
Thank you so much for the clear and detailed directions! I can’t wait to try this for my grandaughter!!
I would like to put a label on them if they turn out. Could you please share how to make a label?
Thanks!
Allison
I found your link for the labels! I was so excited about the skirt, I overlooked it! I am going to Hobby Lobby tomorrow and can’t wait to pick some fun fabrics to start on some skirts! Love your site!
hiiiiii … i love this tutorial! i’ve had it saved for over a month to try it since I had classes going on. now that i finally got the materials and I made the pattern, it doesn’t seem as though I have enough to make it the way you said it and instead I have to make two semi-circles as you said. only thing is, I did the math for the pattern the way you said it but the radius seems too small for a semi circle? What do I do now? I’m really bad at math so I have no idea as to how to change it
(
I finally found the perfect material and a lace one to go on top and it’s so beautiful but I’m sitting here staring at it with no idea of what to do
pleaseeeeee reply soon!!! I would be indebted to you!!!
thank you!!
Thank you for this tutorial!! Is 3 am, and I just finished making my circle skirt. If wasn’t for the tutorial I’ll probably be lost and made a mess. I’M so happy i didi it, Some times you under estimate you abilities. I never knew I could do this all by myself, Now I feel like keep exploring and keep finding out things I thought I couldn’t do but I certainly CAN!! Thanks Again XOXO Fe
Thanks for the tutorial, hoping this pattern is as easy as you make it look. I am on the bigger side so I am going to use it and cut it in gores as you suggested previously. Here’s to alot more nicer clothing than just sweats!
Thanks!
Dana would this work with 2 halves of a. Donut piece if you only had a very wide half yard and sewed the two half circles together to form the same shape?
Wondering if you have ever tried this?
Thanks
Karla
Hi, sorry I’m not Dana but in answer to your question, yes that does work because I used two different colours of material for a fun twist and it still looks great xxx
I am quite addicted to these skirts!! I have made them for all of my nieces birthdays and have made several for my daughter. One of my favorites was one for my niece… I didn’t quite make it long enough, so I made an under skirt of a corresponding color to add some extra length. It turned out so cute!! But my very favorite was my most recent one, made of a lightweight corduroy since I wanted something for the fall. It turned out so cute, that I went out and stocked up on corduroy to make a bunch for my daughter.
Thank you so much for sharing this tutorial!! I have gotten so much use out of it and a lot of compliments on the skirts I have made from it!!
this tutorial is awesome!! I just made this skirt for my little one and I normally get frustrated with patters and them not working for me. But not this one! I think I have found a new gift to give and make!! thank you thank you!
Fantastic. Made one for my daughter. I see many more coming down the line. Thanks so much.
Hi
Thanks for a wonderful and simple upload. I have gone through a couple of sites and have found yours the easiest to follow. Probably you would have guessed it by now I’m a beginner in sewing and have only fixed a couple of buttons or stitched a lose thread.
So my question is I was wondering the measurement for the elastic waist that you have taken for Lucy’s skirt? I think you have not mentioned it as I have not come across the same.
I would appreciate your reply as soon as possible.
Thanks in advance.
Thank you so much for such a great tutorial! I just made one for my daughter (well, okay, it’s not quite finished, because I need more bias tape trim since 1 pack was not enough). But it is so, so cute and super simple! I have fabric to make matching skirts for her and I and I can’t wait! Thanks again!
Thank you so much for your amazing tutorial.
This week is homecoming week for my daughters high school and at the last minute (day before) she decided she wanted to do the theme for tomorrow which is Disney Day! I used your easy tutorial to kick out a “Minnie Mouse” skirt from your site to go with the rest of her outfit. It turned out so cute!!
Thank you again!!!
Thanks for this. I have read through it and made notes. I need to make some circular wrap around skirts for a dance class that we have at our church for 5-10 yr olds.
This is sure going to make it easeier for me
Thanks heaps
Elizabeth
Thanks for the pictures! I followed your instruction and complete my skirt today. I have little experience in sewing. But this was simple enough to follow. It looks great!
I found your tutorial on pinterest. Today is a Sadie Hawkins Hoedown that I am chaperoning for a bunch of high school students from my school. I wanted a new outfit, but needed something quick. Last night I sewed up a circle skirt to go with a peasant blouse. I started with the blouse (which took 2 hours) and finished with the skirt (which took 1 hour!) I am very impressed with the result!
Here is the finished skirt and blouse I made
http://carlasinspirations.blogspot.com/2012/09/handmade-circle-skirt-and-peasant-shirt.html
I am 17 and have very little experience sewing and I made my first one today and it turned out perfectly! I will definitely be making another one tonight! I will be the envy of all my friends at school on Tuesday! I am going to make these for my sisters and all my neices for Christmas this year! They are adorable! Thank you so much for the fantastic tutorial!
I just attempted this and made mine to big I have no idea how I messed this up I was doing the elastic one is can I fix it?
I am studying fashion design at university and this tutorial was a great help! Thank you.
this is an amazing tutorial, even for a novice like me! Thank you for sharing.
Just made one – thank you – easier than I thought! Great instructions.
What kind of stitch do you recommend for sewing the elastic. I am a new with sewing and I used a wide zig zag. But I’m nervous that it will not be strong enough to hold up to all the stretching elastic goes through…
Oh shoot! I’ve been so excited about trying this pattern and love the ease with which you present the steps…. BUT…. I overlooked one detail. The lovely wild horses on the material we chose will be galloping sideways and upside down
Ok, off to find a pattern for a gathered skirt with an elastic waistband (since we’ve already bought, measured and cut the wide elastic). Me and my brain cells….
Thanks so much for this tutorial! Thought you may want to see my take on it: http://twoohtwoseven.blogspot.com/2012/10/31-days-of-shut-up-and-sew-circle-skirt.html
(Spoiler alert: dying white elastic chocolate brown is not the best idea!)
hi dana,
I was thinking of making a circle skirt for a school project but I’m using pleated material and when I fold it the pleats end up horizontal. Some one told me that a half circle skirt would be better, do you have that on this website???
Thank you for the tutorial! I refer to it in my blog, as the inspiration for a circle skirt made for my daughter:
http://poppygoeshappy.wordpress.com/2012/11/02/the-princess-pony-skirt/
I am still pretty new to sewing, but your tutorial looked doable for me. I broke two needles just trying to sew the elastic together. The thread kept looping like crazy underneath as well. What might I have been doing wrong?
Thanks for this tutorial. Made this for my daughter and very pleased with the results- would love to make one for myself too.
People like you make sewing accessible and achievable for so many women. Keep up the great work!
I made three of these skirts yesterday after reading this tutorial! Two Christmas skirts for my daughters and even one for myself!!! Love, love, love this tutorial! Thanks for breaking it down and explaining as well as you did! I am pretty sure my little girls need about a dozen more in different prints
Thank you so much for the simplified version of the circular skirt.
Thanks & happy holidays
Do u think this can be made into a long skirt? Like a maxi skirt
Love your tutorial, I made one for my daughter but would also like to make some for gifts, Do you have a reference on sizes for length and elastic for different sizes?
Nice weblog right here! Additionally your website so much up
fast! What host are you the usage of? Can I am getting your associate hyperlink in your host?
I want my site loaded up as quickly as yours
lol
Hi Dana
Just wanted to say thanks for the tutorial & I made my own and linked back to your blog. Here’s the link.
http://miamoonloves.blogspot.tw/2013/01/new-year-new-adventures.html
Thanks!!
Mia
I just made one of these for my four year old niece… exactly the same measurements as your Lucy.
I added some pretty lace to the bottom and it is too cute!
I accidently cut my skirt out in the middle of the fabric instead of having the edges of the pattern on the fold, so will have to have 4 seams down the sides. I’m wondering if I should go buy more fabric and start over (I used a pink felt), or if the skirt will still turn out? I don’t know if it will look weird having 4 seams down the sides.
Any advice?
The flannel is kind of see thru too, so I’m wondering if I should make a slip for under it?
I meant to say the felt, not the flannel is kind of see thru on the above message.
It depends on the cost of the fabric. You could also try putting the seams offset. You still end up with 4 – but the are to the right and left instead of front and center.
Any suggestions as to how to gradually ad 2-3 inches in length to the back of the circle skirt.. this is for ballet dress that drapes in the back
Are you limited to skirt length by how wide your fabric is off-the-bolt? For example, my fabric is 60″ wide. Folding it in fourths, one side is 30″. Taking 5.5 inches off for the radius leaves my skirt length 24.5 inches max. Right? Is there a way to make it longer?
I plan on making this skirt tomorrow, and I was wondering, how would I make the top go out more, or like the bottom has more fabric? I love this skirt: http://www.etsy.com/listing/115864804/star-wars-battle-skirt-custom-size
Am I being blind and both the skirts are the same (besides fabric) or how could I make them more visually similar?
Thanks in advance, and I wanted to say thanks for creating such a thorough tutorial.
Okay. Maybe I’m just dumb, but every time I make this in a (rather rotund) grown-up size, it comes out…wonky. My last one was two inches shorter on one side… Any ideas on what I’m doing wrong?
What a fantastic tutorial, great images, thank you
Thank you so much!!! I just made first circle skirt, just in time for swing class tonight! I picked a jersey in old mauve with little white polka dots.
I made one small change – I used a smaller width for the waistband: 1″ elastic and I created a cover for it out of leftover fabric so that the waistband and skirt are all one seamless style.
Where did you find those fun labels?
This is lovely and you have broken down the instruction brilliantly. Thanks
I just found this web site on how to make this skirt. Thank you so much for the step by step instructions. I read many websites and did not understand the radius and then how to get the circle. Your instructions were so easy to follow and now my daughter has a “50 style poodle skirt” for her back to the fifties dance next week. Thank you.
A good tutorial and a new ideal to work on. It is good to always develop and share new idea. Thanks
Your blog was my first skirt ever…the simple straight skirt. I had just bought a refurb sewing machine and started attempting to sew. I was so thrilled with making a skirt for the girls. This circle skirt will now be my favorite!! Just made one in multicolor chevron that is sooo fun and cute. I used a one inch waistband, b/c the store already had the exact teal elastic that matched the teal stripe in the chevron material. I loved the measurements and tutorial…all were easy and perfect. The only thing I would ask, is there any other pointers on sewing to elastic? I pinned and pulled… and then ripped and pinned and pulled tight again
…messiest stitch I have ever done! I finally ended up basting it in place as best I could AND then sewing a top stitch that was neater and ripping out the basting stitch. Would a certain needle help better or just more practice? Thanks again!! Love everything on here…and you are helping a girl conquer her fear of sewing! Tiffany
I want to do a circle skirt on a dress for my 3 year old. To do that, would I leave out the elastic waist and the addition inch, then just sew it directly to the bodice?
Can I use seersucker fabric for this skirt?
yes! I used it here:
http://www.danamadeit.com/2012/04/celebrate-baby-tutorial-and-pattern-little-baby-circle-skirt.html
thank u in millions for your best tutorial I’ve ever seen, Well done,,,
My daughter wanted a circle skirt for Christmas. I cut two skirts, one of Christmas fabric and one of a solid blue that matched the colors in the Christmas fabric from some light cotton fabric. I sewed them right sides together at the hem, turned them right sides out and then attached a waistband casing at the top with elastic in it. I love the extra weight the two layers give! The skirt is still light and fun, but the weight helps keep it modest whether she’s twirling, sitting, or playing around. Now she has a reversible circle skirt (with no edges that can fray!) and that can be worn not only for the Christmas season, but all year round. It’s like having two skirts in one! We love it.
So, so, so helpful. Thank you for posting!
Dana. I couldn’t believe it when a website for a no sew poodle skirt listed your website for a cute sewn version! So famous, you are! Anyway. We have a sock hop that I am in charge of for our school and I don’t sew well, but now I wish I did because your skirts are adorable!
Thank you so much for sharing your circular skirt making instructions. I had to make a long circular skirt for my daughther’s dance show and I didn’t know where to start. You have helped me gain some mummy points!
Amazing tutorial! Thanks so much
I know this post is an old one, but I just encountered it today. I work at a fabric store and I often joke with customers about how easy a circle skirt is. Mine are just three seems and a hem! (I make mine down to the floor though, usually takes about five yards of fabric, so the circle is actually two pieces of fabric) It pleases me to see someone else using the math rather than a bought pattern (I thought I was the only one who did that!) I have a measuring tape marked with my waist and hem lines, and just rotate that on my material, marking it with chalk. I always get complimented for my skirts.
Thanks for the tutorial Dana
I made one for a birthday present with 4 different colors (I sew 4 rectangles and then cut the skirt) and it was a great hit. The birthday girl loved that depending on how she wore it, she had 4 “different” skirts.
Thank you so much for taking the time to figure out the math and take all the photos for this awesome tutorial! I am so excited to make this skirt (one for me and one for my daughter!). You made it so simple for us and I can’t wait to see how it turns out!
This was a very helpful tutorial. I used this for my Pi day project. Thankyou
I just used this tutorial for the 3rd time just this month. I probably have used it at least 6 times. Thank you for such a clear and versitile tutorial.
Dana, this skirt is fantastic. I made one last night for my 1 year old and made it reversible with an applique monogram on each side. This is only the second thing I’ve ever sewn in my life and it turned out great! – goes to show you how wonderful your tutorial is for helping newbies! Question – where did you get that fabulous polka dot fabric? I glanced through the comments to see if you have already answered that but didn’t see it…. thanks! Carol
Have you thought about using a “rolled hem” stitch on your serger when you hem the skirt? That would eliminate the need to turn up the serger edge on your skirt? I am using this to make 12 costume skirts for a program at a school. Looking for short cuts!
Dana,
My daughter has a 27″ waist but her hips are 37″. I am thinking that with the two inches we add to her waist size to allow the fabric to give when figuring out our radius will not be enough for her to actually pull this skirt up (or down) over her hips. (Not so much a problem when you are creating this pattern for a little girl who has yet to develop that womanly hour glass figure. Smile.)
So in my head, I thought how would I address this issue without losing the wonderful elastic band and not having to go to a zipper or any type of slit in the back of skirt? I am thinking that you would take the actual hip size, then minus the 2 inches for extra give that we initally added to the waist measurement and then divide that number by 6.28. So my radius math looks like this: 37″(hip size) -2″ = 35 divided by 6.28 = 5.57. This should give you ample room to pull this skirt up. Do you think I am headed in the right direction? I am going to tackle making this dress this weekend and am not much of a sewer.
Thank you for your tutorial. Your website is FANTASTIC!!! I will visit often.
I want to make the skirt for babies but don’t have a baby to measure. Can you give me some basic measurements dor a onsie skirt. I would appreciate it.
As an adult, I prefer doing the two half-circles and sewing them together, because then I can add POCKETS. No skirt should be without pockets. I sewed a dress about 30 years ago that had nice pockets, and I’ve used that pattern piece (many times copied as the originals wore out) since then.
This blog is amazing and I’m happy that I decided to visit it.
I am making 12 of these for costumes for a Christian School here in MI. I plan to use the “rolled hem” setting on my serger to hem the skirts since it leaves a very fine hem and since I am using all pastel fabric, I am leaving my white thread in my serger. That way you do not have that nasty hemming to do. What do you think?
You_are_the_BEST!!
I’m planning on sewing my gown for my son’s wedding coming up in October. While looking online for some pattern ideas, I noticed almost all chiffon dresses having only one seam in the back, no side seams, yet draping very nicely on the body. The thought of circluar cutting did cross my mind, but I rejected it thinking the dress will be puffy at the waist. Then someone online wanted to know how to sew her wedding dress without side seams, to be like a circular skirt. I looked up circular skirt and found your tutorial. I screamed out loud, YES!, that’s it!
Haven’t started making the dress yet. Still deciding on what type/color fabric to use.
When it’s done, I’ll definitely come back and let you know how I made out.
Thank you!!
Hi Dana and everyone else! I am quite new to sewing but I love the idea of a circle skirt. I have just bought an Ikea machine and have been trying little projects. I have followed your instructions for this skirt as they seemed quite straightforward but I think maybe because my elastic band was half the width of yours, the skirt wouldn’t go up my legs! Maybe I went wrong in the calculations. I also used a zigzag stitch. Why do you think this happened?
how long is your elastic waist band?
Dana,
I just wanted to write and say thanks for your tutorial on the circle skirt. I looked at a lot of others on internet and none of them compared. You made the directions for getting the right measurement really easy to follow. I credited you on a blog post I did about the little Pinkalicious circle skirt I made for my grand-daughter. (www.theredfeedsack.blogspot.com). I’m really enjoying your blog and subscribed to get updates. Thanks again! ~ Dori ~
thanks for a great tutorial – I just finished my skirt and it is gorgeous!
Hey, thanks for such an easy to follow pattern with lovely, clear pictures. I just made my first circle skirt and it looks awesome! I bought 25m of 2″ elastic, so I guess I should get off the computer and start making more circle skirts!
x
this is sooo helpful!!! thank you sooo much for putting this online! I’m using this for a project in my sewing class and I cannot wait to see how it turns out! I am making a few alterations (I’m using navy colored chiffon and putting an underskirt and using a zipper instead of the elastic.) if you have any tips please let me know! I start on it tomorrow! wish me luck!
I just worked out a quick formula to calculate how many yards of 45″ wide fabric I need to make this: 4(R+L) + 4″
In my case, 4(4.5″ + 21.5″) + 4″ = 108″
To convert this length to yards, divide by 36 ( 12″ in a foot, 3 ft in a yard)
108″ /36 = 3yards.
The +4″ is just to give a little space between the raw cut edges.
Hope this helps others.
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