How To Draft A Full Circle Skirt In A Few Simple Steps

December 14, 2023

Looking to get started quickly? Download our free full circle skirt sewing pattern here

Now that that's out of the way, let's begin!

1. Understanding the Formula:

The secret to drafting a full circle skirt lies in basic geometry. Let's demystify the process with a straightforward formula:

circumference = 2πr

This formula represents the circumference of a circle, where π (pi) is approximately 3.14, and r is the radius.

The waist circumference of your skirt involves your waist measurement plus a bit of ease for comfort, typically 2.5 cm or 1 inch. So,

waist circumference = 2πr

waist measurement + 2.5 cm (or 1 inch) ease = 2πr

Now, solving for the radius (r):

r = waist circ / (2π)

This equation gives you r. This radius will determine the size of the circle that fits your waist.

2. Considering Skirt Length:

To determine the length of your skirt, add your desired length to the radius. This calculation gives you the radius for the bigger circle, which represents the hem of your skirt, as shown below:

Diagram showing labels for full circle skirt sewing pattern drafting

3. Your Actual Pattern

For ease of pattern storage and cutting, we will use only a quarter of the circle you've drawn, as shown below:

4. Adding Seam Allowances

Add seam allowances to your pattern pieces as shown below. For beginners, a standard allowance is 1.5 cm (5/8 inch), but feel free to modify these to your liking.

5. Waist Facing

With your skirt piece ready, measure about 5 cm (2 inches) down from the waistline (actual waistline, not the existing seam allowance!) on one edge of the quarter pattern. Mark this point.

From the marked point, draw a quarter circle that smoothly connects to the foldline.

Since your skirt is cut on the fold and already has seam allowance at the waist and the other edge of the pattern piece, you only need to add seam allowance to the bottom of the facing. A standard seam allowance of 1.5 cm (5/8 inch) is suitable.