Step-by-Step on How to Make a Poodle Skirt

For a life-size version of this doll's adorable poodle skirt, you only need a few minutes and fabric.

Nineteen-fifties fashion was iconic, but most iconic was the poodle skirt. The long, full skirts were perfect for swing dancing because the billowing fabric would twirl and open like a blooming flower. While not a major trend now, a poodle skirt never fails to spark conversation and possibly even flatter the female form. The real beauty of the poodle skirt, though, lies in its easy construction and inexpensive means. Making your own poodle skirt is easy, but the best part is because you're the one making it, you control the fit.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Newspaper or wrapping paper
• Scissors
• Felt fabric
• Needle and thread or sewing machine
• Elastic for waistband
• Applique or iron-on design

Instructions

1. Take waist and length measurements. Tape together a few pages of newspaper, or unroll and tape wrapping paper together. This will be your makeshift pattern.

2. Trace out a large circle. The radius of the circle should be a few inches longer than you want the skirt to hang. Some length will be cut during the making of the skirt. When you are happy with your pattern, cut the fabric.

3. Do your math. To determine the waist size, divide your waist measurement by about 6.3. This number, the waist divided by 6.3, will be the distance from the center of the circle you need measure and cut out. The inner circle will be for your waist.

4. Sew the elastic into the waistband to create a snug fit. If the skirt doesn't slide up to your waist, consider cutting a small slit and sewing a button in place before you add the elastic.

5. Iron on your applique. An iconic poodle would fit the theme nicely but any sort of decoration would work well with a poodle skirt. Just be sure to place it lower on the skirt so the fabric will billow out and show it off.

Tips & Warnings

• If your first skirt attempt doesn't turn out as planned, make another one. These skirts are inexpensive and relatively simple to make. Keep perfecting your skirt.

• Avoid flimsy, thin, and light fabric like cotton or silk. Heavy fabrics, like felt, are ideal for poodle skirts.

References

• Poodle Skirts