Making 4.5 yards of fabric fit a 28 inch waist isn't hard. It's time consuming, to say the least. And it's just gorgeous when it's done. How do you get 13-15 linear feet of fabric that small? Cartridge pleating!!
There are several tutorials on youtube that show you how, but I learned from the costume diva of the Dickens' Fair, Ms. Liz Martin and company. When you have an evenly spaced plaid, it's easy and a thing of beauty.
I consider myself a near professional after pleating 7 skirts. LOL And now that I have attached two to the waist bands, I'm an intermediate there. LOL I have some seriously sore fingers since it's all hand work. If anyone really wants a tutorial, I'll make one, just let me know.
This is the pleating sans waistband
Inside view of pleats tacked to waistband
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| The pleats on the ''show" side of the waistband |
Skirt showing how much fabric is really there. 13' 6" length by 40" height
Not too shabby for a beginner!!!
Next time you need a period skirt, try cartridge pleating. Heck, use it on anything that needs a lot of volume in a small amount of space! it's a good thing!
Happy Sewing!!
Very cool indeed :)
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