How to Create an Easy-to-Change Child's Costume Skirt

You can make any style of costume skirt by modifying these instructions.

The key to an easy-to-change costume is using an elastic waistband. With this waistband, a child can pull the skirt on or off for fast costume changes. An elastic waistband skirt is also one of the least complicated sewing projects, one that even novice seamstresses can complete. Make the skirt as full or as straight as necessary for the costume by removing or adding fabric to the rectangle used to make the skirt.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Fabric
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• Iron and ironing board
• 1-inch elastic

Instructions

1. Measure the child’s waist and the desired length of the fabric. Cut a rectangle from fabric 4 inches longer than the desired length and at least twice as wide as the waist measurement.

2. Face the right sides of the rectangle together. Sew the rectangle along the edge where the two sides of the rectangle meet.

3. Fold the bottom edge of the fabric up 1/4 inch and iron in place. Fold the edge over another 1/4 inch and sew using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.

4. Fold the top edge over 1/4 inch and sew in place.

5. Fold the top edge over 2 inches and pin in place.

6. Sew the hemline 1/2 inch away from the bottom of the folded piece. Leave a 2-inch gap so you can thread the elastic through the hole.

7. Cut the elastic to 2 inches shorter than the child’s waist measurement. Place a safety pin on the end of the elastic. Thread the elastic through the hole.

8. Sew the two ends of the elastic together. Sew the hole closed. Turn the skirt right side out to complete.