Learn How to Make Skirt Patterns


Skirts are a wardrobe staple. Slip on a skirt, a blouse or top, and you can go anywhere, any time. 

Skirts can be dress-up attire, or dress-down.  Denim, silk, wool, cotton - anything can be a skirt!

Using your dress/skirt block, I'll show you the basics of how to create a wide variety of skirt patterns. Choose a shape, choose a fabric, and you're set!


Circle and Handkerchief Hem Skirts

sketch of model wearing handkerchief hem skirt with multiple layers, each a different color


The handkerchief hem skirt on the left is a great example of versatility. It's shown in multiple layers of multicolored chiffon, which blend to make new colors with every movement. Pair it with a simple but soft (and maybe sparkly!) top, it's a stunning skirt for special occasions. 

But you could also make it in a firmer fabric, like cotton or denim, for a Boho everyday skirt. In those fabrics, you don't need multiple layers.  The pointed hem of a single layer adds interest by itself!


The circle skirt is a simple, very full skirt. 

The circle skirt can be soft and fluid, or, worn with a crinoline and a fitted blouse, a very 50's Dior-style fit-and-flare look. 

It's actually the basis for the handkerchief hem skirt shown above.  The drafting method is the same, only the hemline is different. 

This one requires some math to draft, but don't worry - we'll walk you through it.
sketch of model wearing full circle skirt in purple

Another way to create a full skirt is using your block skirt pattern, and "slashing and spreading" for fullness. 

The overall look is similar to the circle skirt, but you control how full and flared you want the skirt.

You can add as much or as little fullness as you'd like - as much as a circle skirt, or a bit less if you don't want the skirt too full. Both the circle skirt and drafted full skirt maintain a smooth fit at the waist.  There are no gathers.

And, there's no math involved!

Pleated Skirts

sketch of model wearing light green pleated skirt with flat front

A pleated skirt is classic, and can be done in a variety of ways, too.

I've chosen to use a flat front for a sleeker look, but the pleats can run all the way around the waist if you prefer. 

Pleats can be wide and deep, or very narrow.

You could add just a couple of pleats on an otherwise straight skirt, for a bit of flair and stylish detail.

Or, make a skirt with a multitude of skinny pleats in a shiny fabric - it's very dressy and anything but "schoolgirl"!

For something a bit more different, try sweeping the pleats to the side, keeping the hem narrow.  All the fullness of the pleats drape softly at the hip - or, in a firmer fabric, add an interesting structural detail.

The draped side pleat skirt is both innovative and versatile.  In a firm-weave fabric, it adds shape and structure to a basic pencil skirt.In a softer, drape-y fabric, the pleats are fluid and add movement and elegance. 

It's a challenging draft, but well worth the effort!
skirt with draped side pleats

Gored Skirts

sketch of woman wearing denim 8-gore skirt with jeans style topstitching and buttons

A gored skirt is really versatile.  You can create almost any shape you want, from an A-Line to a very full, almost-circle-like skirt. 

A "gore" is simply a skirt panel.  By dividing the skirt block into multiple panels and adding flare at the hem of each panel, you'll add lots and lots of swing to your skirt!

Or, not so much swing, if that's not your goal. 

The seams themselves can be styling details, and the example at left has a button placket at the center front instead of a seam.  In denim, it's a great, classic everyday skirt. 

But in a softer fabric, and with a seam rather than the placket, it's a skirt with lots of movement! 

It can be anything you want it to be. 

More Skirts

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