Finding a skirt that fits perfectly can be a challenge. If you have a pair of pants that you love but no longer fit, you can easily turn them into a skirt. This simple project requires minimal sewing skills and can be completed in an afternoon. Plus, it’s a great way to recycle your old clothes and create a new, stylish piece for your wardrobe. Here’s how to do it:
First, you’ll need to cut off the legs of the pants. To do this, lay the pants flat on a table and measure how long you want the skirt to be. Mark the desired length with a piece of chalk or fabric marker. Then, use a sharp pair of scissors to cut off the legs, leaving a straight edge. Next, you’ll need to hem the bottom of the skirt. To do this, fold the edge of the fabric up by about 1 inch and press it with an iron. Then, fold the edge up again by another 1 inch and press it again. Finally, stitch the hem in place using a sewing machine or by hand. Once you’ve hemmed the bottom of the skirt, you can try it on to see if it fits. If it’s too loose, you can take it in at the sides by sewing a dart. To do this, simply fold the fabric in on itself by about 1 inch and stitch it in place.
If the skirt is too tight, you can let it out by inserting a gusset. To do this, cut a piece of fabric that is about 6 inches wide and twice as long as the desired length of the gusset. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise and stitch it in place. Then, insert the gusset into the side seam of the skirt and stitch it in place. Finally, topstitch around the edges of the gusset to secure it. Once you’ve made the necessary adjustments, you’re finished! You now have a new skirt that you can wear with pride.
Measuring and Marking
Determining the Waistline
To accurately determine the waistline of the future skirt, it’s crucial to take precise measurements. Use a measuring tape to measure around your natural waist, which is typically located just above the navel. Note down this measurement as the “waist size.” To ensure a comfortable fit, consider adding an extra inch or two for seam allowances and comfort.
Calculating the Skirt Length
The desired length of the skirt is a matter of personal preference. Measure from the waistline to the point where you want the skirt to end. This measurement represents the “skirt length.” For a mini skirt, consider a length of 14-16 inches; for a knee-length skirt, opt for 22-24 inches; and for a midi skirt, measure 28-30 inches.
Marking the Cut Lines
Using a fabric marker or chalk, carefully mark the designated cut lines on the pants. For the waistline, mark a horizontal line around the waist size you determined earlier. For the skirt length, mark a vertical line along the side seam of the pants, measuring from the waistline to the desired length. Repeat this process for the other side seam to ensure symmetry.
| Measurement | Description |
|---|---|
| Waist Size | Natural waist circumference plus seam allowance |
| Skirt Length | Desired length from waistline to skirt hem |
Finishing Touches
7. Hemming the Skirt
Hemming is the final touch that will give your skirt a polished look. Here’s how to do it:
- Fold up the bottom edge of the skirt by about 1 inch and press it.
- Fold up the edge again by about 1/2 inch and press it again.
- Topstitch the hem close to the folded edge, using a blind stitch or regular stitch.
You can also use a fusible hem tape to make the process even easier. Simply cut a piece of hem tape to the length of the skirt hem, fold the bottom edge of the skirt up over the tape, and iron it on.
Here are some tips for hemming your skirt:
- Use a sharp needle and thread that matches the color of your skirt.
- Take small, even stitches.
- Don’t pull the thread too tightly, as this can cause the hem to pucker.
- If you’re using a fusible hem tape, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Tips for Perfect Results
1. Choose the Right Pants:
Select pants made from a flexible fabric like cotton, linen, or jersey. Avoid stiff or heavy fabrics like denim.
2. Measure and Mark:
Measure the circumference of your waist and hip area. Mark these measurements on the pants.
3. Cut the Waistband:
Cut off the waistband and top portion of the pants, leaving enough room for a seam allowance.
4. Sew Sides:
Pin and sew the side seams of the pants together, creating a tube-like shape.
5. Create Skirt Hem:
Cut the bottom of the pants to your desired skirt length. Finish the raw edge with a hem.
6. Insert Elastic:
Measure and cut a piece of elastic to fit your waist measurement. Thread the elastic through the waistband and sew it in place.
7. Add Pockets (Optional):
If desired, cut pockets from the remaining fabric and sew them onto the skirt for added convenience.
8. Embellish (Optional):
Personalize your skirt by adding embellishments like lace, beads, or embroidery.
9. Troubleshooting: Preventing Unraveling
Use a Fray Check Liquid: Apply fray check liquid to the raw edges of the waistband and hem to prevent unraveling.
Double-Stitch Seams: Sew the side seams and waistband twice for increased strength and durability.
Reinforce Waistband with Bias Tape: Wrap bias tape around the waistband before inserting the elastic to provide extra support.
| Fabric Type | Suitability |
|---|---|
| Cotton | Flexible, breathable, ideal for casual skirts |
| Linen | Lightweight, airy, perfect for summer skirts |
| Jersey | Stretchy, comfortable, suitable for skirts with lots of movement |
How to Turn Pants into a Skirt
Looking to breathe new life into an old pair of pants? You can easily transform them into a stylish and unique skirt with just a few simple steps.
**Materials:**
- Pants
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Fabric scissors
- Needle and thread (or sewing machine)
- Elastic waistband (optional)
**Steps:**
- Measure and mark the new skirt length: Put on the pants and mark the desired length on the legs with pins or chalk.
- Cut the legs off: Use fabric scissors to cut off the legs at the marked lines.
- Hem the edges: Fold the cut edges under by about 1/2 inch and sew them down using a needle and thread or a sewing machine.
- Determine the waist size: Measure around your waist and add 1-2 inches for elastic.
- Cut the waistband: Cut a strip of fabric with the calculated length and a width of about 2-3 inches.
- Create a casing for the waistband: Fold the waistline of the skirt up by about 1 inch and sew a casing across the top edge. Insert the elastic through the casing and sew it securely.
- Try on and adjust: Put on the skirt and make any necessary adjustments to the waistband or hem.
People Also Ask
How do I turn pants into a high-waisted skirt?
To turn pants into a high-waisted skirt, simply cut off the legs at a higher point along the inseam. Measure from your natural waistline down to the desired length and mark the cutting line accordingly.
Can I turn dress pants into a skirt?
Yes, you can turn dress pants into a skirt. However, keep in mind that the fabric of dress pants may be thinner and less suitable for a skirt than regular pants.
How do I turn pants into a skirt without sewing?
You can turn pants into a skirt without sewing by using fabric glue. Simply apply glue to the cut edges of the legs and fold them over. Hold them in place until the glue dries completely.
