How To Make A Tailored Bed Skirt

How to Make a Tailored Bed Skirt: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a tailored bed skirt elevates the look of your bedroom, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you achieve a professional-looking result, even if you're a beginner sewer. We'll cover everything from choosing the right fabric to finishing those perfect seams.

Choosing Your Fabric and Supplies

The first step in making a tailored bed skirt is selecting the appropriate materials. Consider these factors:

• Fabric Type: Choose a fabric that complements your bedding. Popular choices include cotton, linen, and heavier-weight fabrics like velvet or damask for a more luxurious feel. Avoid overly lightweight fabrics which might look flimsy.
• Fabric Amount: Accurately measuring your bed is crucial. You'll need enough fabric to cover the sides and create the desired drop length. Add extra for hems and seam allowances. It's always better to have a little extra than to run short.
• Essential Supplies: Besides your fabric, gather these sewing essentials:
  • Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements are paramount.
  • Scissors: Sharp scissors for clean cuts.
  • Pins: To hold fabric securely in place before sewing.
  • Sewing Machine: A sewing machine will make the process significantly easier.
  • Iron and Ironing Board: Pressing seams creates a professional finish.
  • Matching Thread: Choose thread that blends seamlessly with your fabric.
  • Tailor's Chalk or Fabric Pencil: For marking fabric.

Measuring Your Bed

Precise measurements are the foundation of a well-fitted bed skirt. Follow these steps carefully:

• Measure the mattress: Measure the length, width, and height of your mattress. The height will determine the drop length of your bed skirt.
• Determine the drop length: Decide how long you want the bed skirt to hang below the mattress. Standard drop lengths are 14, 16, or 18 inches.
• Calculate the fabric needed: Add the drop length to the mattress height twice (for both sides), plus seam allowances. Calculate the fabric width needed based on your bed's width and the number of panels you plan to use.

Cutting Your Fabric

With your measurements in hand, it’s time to cut your fabric:

• Cut the panels: Cut your fabric into rectangular panels based on your calculations. Ensure all cuts are straight and precise.
• Add seam allowances: Remember to add seam allowances (around ½ inch) to each panel edge.
• Cut the corners: For a neat finish, cut the corners of each panel diagonally to reduce bulk when you sew the seams.

Sewing the Bed Skirt

This step brings everything together. Follow these instructions for a professional finish:

• Sew the side seams: Pin and sew the side seams of each panel, leaving a small opening at the top for the mattress to fit through.
• Finish the seams: Finish your seams with a serger or a zig-zag stitch to prevent fraying.
• Hem the bottom: Hem the bottom of each panel with a clean double fold, pressing well.
• Attach the corners: Carefully sew the corners together to create a neat, fitted look.
• Create the casing: At the top of each panel, create a casing by folding over the fabric by about 1 inch and sewing along the edge. This casing will hold the elastic or ribbon.

Inserting the Elastic or Ribbon

The final touch is inserting the elastic or ribbon to keep the bed skirt snug against the mattress:

• Measure and cut: Measure the length of each side of the mattress and cut the elastic or ribbon accordingly. Add a bit of overlap.
• Insert the elastic/ribbon: Insert the elastic or ribbon into the casing you created. Overlap the ends, pin, and secure by sewing.
• Finish the opening: Carefully close the remaining opening.

Tips for Success

• Press your seams: This creates crisp, clean lines and adds to the professional appearance of your tailored bed skirt.
• Use a walking foot: If you are using a heavier fabric, a walking foot attachment for your sewing machine helps to feed the fabric evenly.
• Choose a coordinating color thread: The color should blend with your fabric, ensuring a flawless finish.

By following these detailed steps, you can confidently create a beautifully tailored bed skirt that will transform your bedroom. Enjoy the process, and the stunning results!