1/2 pleated skirt

The skirt featured here is a result of not enough fabric (what originally started out as a pleated skirt turned into the 1/2 pleated skirt).  However, we loved the result and kept making more.  The skirt features an elastic waistband with fabric sash and a flat front with pleated back.  It looks especially cute on little baby girls. To win this pink 1/2 pleated skirt for a baby girl, make a comment here.

Versatility is a great aspect of this skirt patten.  The first skirt Lauren made she layered strips of fabric to create more interest and dimension.  The flat front design also creates a place to add appliques or embroidery.  You can really customize the basic pattern to a variety of looks and styles.

1/2 PLEATED SKIRT

Here's what you need:

- fabric

- thread

- elastic

- sewing machine

- iron

Here's how to create the skirt:

Step 1: Cut a rectangle piece of fabric to the desired dimensions. Dimensions for the skirt can be determined based on the desired end size.  

To determine dimensions for your skirt:

Length: measure desired length from waist add 4" 

Width: measure waist multiply by 2 then add 2"-4" (I added 2" to the 0-3 months size and 4" to the 3T size).

Step 2:  Take the rectangle piece of fabric and fold it in half - right sides together .  Sew down the side seam.

Step 3:  Create hem: Measure 1/2" from bottom edge fold and press.  Fold the edge up once more 1/2" and press.  Sew 1/8" from the hem edge.

Step 4:  Create pleats:  Take your child's waist measurement, divide it in half, and then place pins in the very front of the skirt this distance apart.  This will be the area of the skirt that will not have the pleats.  Begin on one of the marked pins and start ironing 1/2" pleats until you reach the other pin.  Once the pleats are complete, stay stitch the upper edge of the skirt to keep the pleats in place.

Step 5:  Create waistband:  Iron the upper edge down 1 1/2".  This is to help put the elastic in.  Sew your elastic together making it a complete circle.  Slide the elastic underneath the pressed fabric and then fold down once more.  Take time to pin the elastic into place and to make sure that the pleats stay in place.  This part may take some time but it will be worth it!  Once you have completely pinned the elastic into place,  sew around the bottom edge of the fold with your sewing machine set to a stitch line of approx. 4.  

Step 6:  Create sash: For the sash, you can either use ribbon, or make your own from coordinating fabric.  Once you have your sash, stitch it to the back and sides of the skirt.