Finally the free half circle skirt pattern I have been looking for. This free pattern comes in waist size 14″-45″ providing a wide range of sizes for your enjoyment.
I personally think that the half circle skirt is just about the perfect skirt for most occasions. It is twirly but won’t twirl up too high. It has fullness but doesn’t use too much fabric. Infact I can sew a just below the knee length skirt for me (size L/XL) on two yards of fabric.
This is a wonderful option for those who want to save money on sewing. It looks beautiful sewn with silk fabrics, knit fabrics and even quilting fabrics. To me it is the ultimate skirt. The only thing I haven’t liked about sewing it up until now is the math involved.
But have no fear, the half circle skirt pattern is here! After spending way too long designing this pattern (I got pattern design software and it took me awhile to learn how to use it) I have finally made it. I made it go from 14″ -45″ to be able to work for almost everyone.
I didn’t want to have to have a different file for me and for the girls. This is a one stop shop (well free download) for your half circle skirt needs.
What can I do with this pattern?
You can do just about anything you want with it as long as you don’t sell the pattern itself. Though please link back to this post if you share it on social media. But as for sewing you can make an elastic waist half circle skirt, a fitted half circle skirt or switch out the skirt pattern for your favorite dress to be a half circle skirt.
How long can I make the skirt?
As long as you want and your fabric allows. This pattern only has the top of the skirt. You will need to measure down the desired length and mark that. This means you can use this pattern to add a peplum to a top or make a maxi skirt or anything in between.
How do I get the pattern?
Simply fill in the box below and I will email it to you.
How do I know what size I am?
This depends on a few things. One, are you making this to fit your waist or to fit a bodice? If you are fitting it to a bodice measure the bottom edge of the bodice and cut out that size. If you are fitting it to your waist and want it to be a fitted skirt, carefully measure your waist with a fabric tape measure and use that size.
If you are making an elastic waistband half circle skirt measure your waist and use three sizes bigger. When in doubt cut out the smaller of the two sizes. You can always cut it larger, but you can’t add the fabric back in.
How to sew an elastic waist half circle skirt using PDF pattern
Determine your size
First print off the pattern (see box below) don’t scale it. Once it has printed double check the 1″ square to make sure it printed at the right scale. Then tape the pattern pieces together. Measure your waist then cut out the size that is three sizes larger. Example I have a size 35″ waist (or at least I do today) so I will cut out a 38″ size on the pattern.
Next determine how long you want your skirt to be (don’t forget to add length for your hem and subtract for your waist band). I went with 32″ from the top of the skirt. Using a tape measure or yard stick, measure down from the waist (where you cut out the top of the skirt). Mark and cut out. Repeat for other half of the skirt.
Cut out the skirt
Once you have your two halves cut out place them together with right sides together. Pin and sew using a straight stich in machine. Don’t forget to back tack your stiches at the beginning and end of the rows. Try it on, make sure it can go over your shoulders or butt. If it is too small cut down 1/4″ all of the way around and try it one again. Repeat until it fits, then resew the top on the two side seams.
Using a zigzag stitch or pinking shears go around the top of your skirt to finish it so it won’t ravel as you wear it.
Attach the elastic waistband
Next measure your elastic. I use this really soft waistband elastic because it doesn’t itch or irritate my skin. Stretch it around your waist you want it to be fairly tight (I actually made mine a little loose, oops) add 1/2″ for sewing it together and cut it. Overlap the elastic and sew it very securely. Try it on to make sure it fits properly. Next divide it into quarters equally and mark with pins. Find the center front and center back on your skirt and match up and pin the side seams and centers with the pins.
Place the elastic waistband on your skirt overlapping it by 1/4″ and start sewing it on using a zigzag stitch. Make sure to back tack and the beginning and end of the waistband. Stretch the elastic to match the skirt as you sew around. Try it on to make sure the waist fits correctly.
Hemming the skirt
Let the skirt hang for 24-48 hours to make sure any stretching happens before we hem it. Since we cut it on the bias (45% angle) some of the fabric might stretch and some of the fabric won’t stretch. Sometimes letting it hang doesn’t make a difference other times it makes a huge difference.
Once you have let it hang try it on again to determine where you want the hem to be and mark it. This step can be easier with help. Or if it didn’t stretch and you like the length just skip to the sewing step. Once you have your hem marked cut off any excess fabric.
If your fabric is not super thick, I highly recommend using a rolled hem foot for sewing as it will make this so much easier. If you don’t have one or your fabric is too thick simply fold the fabric under 1/4″ and under again a 1/4″ and sew along the fold using a straight stitch. Clip threads and your all set.
Hi Katelyn! What pattern design software did you use for making this pattern?
I used the Valentina Software, there is a bit of a learning curve with it but it is free. If you have the time to play with it and learn it I think that it is a great tool.