Looking to add a stylish and versatile piece to your wardrobe? In this blog post, we’ll explore lots of pencil skirt sewing patterns, from classic designs to modern twists.
The pencil skirt silhouette is a timeless fashion staple that can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Whether you’re a beginner or have been sewing for a long time, you’ll find a perfect pattern.
Why You’ll Love This Style
You’ll love the pencil-style skirt because its elegant silhouette effortlessly flatters your figure.
It hugs your curves in all the right places, giving you a chic and polished look whether you’re heading to the office, off to a special event, or out for a night on the town.
Plus, its versatility knows no bounds – pair it with a blouse for a professional ensemble, a dainty sweater for a dressed-up look, or a graphic tee for a more relaxed vibe.
With its timeless appeal and endless outfit possibilities, the pencil skirt will become a staple in your wardrobe, adding a touch of sophistication to any occasion.
Materials
Below are the sewing supplies you need to create your pencil skirt. Click the photos of the supplies below to shop. Affiliate links are included.
Pictured Above
Fabric
Trim optional
Thread
Straight Pins
Ruler
Fabric Scissors my scissors or
Rotary Cutter the best
Not Pictured
Pattern below, I used New Look N6697
Safe Cutting Surface my board & another good one
or a Cardboard Mat
Snippers my favorite
Sewing Machine
Machine Needles
Notion requirements for your pattern,
such as fusible interfacing and invisible zipper
Optional but Helpful
Tape Measure
Seam Ripper
Iron and Ironing Board
Chalk or Fabric Marker
My Favorite Sewing Tools
Below are links to my favorite go-to sewing supplies. I love them all! I own all of these brands; some of the products I have are the older versions, though, as they last forever! 😉 Affiliate links are included.
Pattern Ideas
Below are new styles for all body types, including lovely details like front pockets, a pocket opening for interior pockets, and buttons for embellishment.
The best part? Thanks to their simple construction, these stylish garments are designed for all body types and are a breeze to make. With these patterns, you’ll feel confident in your sewing skills.
Click the photos or links to review fabric requirements and a size chart/measurement chart. Most are available in a paper pattern format. Some are available as pdf files or in a downloadable pattern format.
My Pattern
I used New Look Pattern N6697 for my project. (pictured below—affiliate link) I made view B and added a little more length, eyelet lace, and velvet ribbon trim.
Other Patterns
Below are more pencil skirt styles to try that are appropriate for someone with a beginner skill level. Affiliate links are included.
Variations
Below are some fun variations to experiment with when making your DIY pencil skirt. Try these variations to create a DIY pencil skirt that fits your style and preferences perfectly!
Length variation
You can customize the length of your pencil skirt to suit your preference, whether it’s a mini, knee-length, or midi skirt.
Embellishments
Have fun and get creative. Add an embellishment to the design to personalize your pencil skirt, as I did with eyelet or lace trim, ribbon, decorative stitching, or fabric appliques.
Color blocking
Experiment with color-blocking techniques using different fabric panels or contrasting fabrics to create visual interest.
Pattern variations
To add personality to your pencil skirt, play with different pattern variations, such as stripes, plaids, or florals.
Instructions
Below are photos of how I added my eyelet trim to the lower section of the skirt.
You could sew a ribbon or lace on TOP of the fabric (that would be much easier than I did, LOL.), but I wanted to catch the top edge of the eyelet in the seam and cover it up. I also wanted the trimming to hang loose over the fabric.
When I cut the skirt fabric out, I added an extra panel to the bottom to lengthen it. I matched up the floral pattern on the two pieces as well as I could.
I followed the pattern as written, and when it came to the side seams, I connected the three parts of the lower panel at the side seams.
Next, I placed the eyelet where I wanted it and pinned it to the bottom panel. I pressed (ironed) the lower edge of the top portion of the skirt and positioned it over the top of the lace, pinning it in place. Then, I topstitched from the center back around the front and back to the center back and continued to follow the pattern instructions as written.
I debated about hand-sewing the velvet ribbon on top of the eyelet lace. But in the end decided to weave it in and out of the trim instead. That was a good decision and an easy way to complete the project, saving me an hour or more of hand stitching. 😉 I think it shows up more prominently as well.
I purchased both trims at Rose Mille in Stillwater, Minnesota. If you love embellishments of any kind, you must visit the store in person or online. It’s a fabulous store with fabulous products and an amazing owner.
FAQ
Pencil skirts can flatter many body types, including hourglass figures, rectangle shapes, pear shapes, and apple shapes. The key is finding the right fit and style for your body shape and preferences.
You’ll typically need about 1.5-2 yards (1.4-1.8 meters) of fabric to make a pencil skirt if using a fabric width of 45 inches (115 cm) or 1-1.5 yards (0.9-1.4 meters) with a width of 60 inches (150 cm). These estimates are for a knee-length skirt and include extra fabric for seam allowances and hems. Longer skirts or those requiring pattern matching may need more fabric.
You’ll need measurements for your waist (narrowest part), hips (fullest part), skirt length (from waist to desired hemline), and waist to hip length (from waist to fullest part of hips) to make a pencil skirt.
The best fabrics for pencil skirt styles are medium-weight with a little stretch for comfort and ease of movement. Ideal choices include medium weight wools, cotton or cotton blends, denim, stretch fabrics like ponte knit fabrics or stretch wovens, or cotton, cotton sateen, or linen.
Expert Tips
Here are some expert tips that can be really useful when making and sewing a pencil skirt. By following these simple steps, you can create a beautiful and well-fitting skirt you’ll be proud to wear.
Test your stitch
Before sewing your skirt, test your stitch on a scrap piece of fabric to ensure the tension and stitch length are correct.
Finish seams with a serger or zigzag stitch
Finishing seams with a serger or zigzag stitch helps prevent fraying and adds durability to your pencil skirt.
Press seams as you go
I love to press all seams with an iron as I sew. This helps create a professional-looking finish and ensures your pencil skirt lies flat and looks amazing when it is complete.
Try on your skirt as you sew
Trying on your skirt project as you sew allows you to make any necessary adjustments for the perfect fit before you get too far.
More Cute Skirt Patterns
Below are lots of adorable skirt styles you should check out. Here’s the full spring & summer skirt roundup
Wrap Skirts
Ankle-Length Skirt Patterns, great for beginner sewer
Wrap-Around Skirts
Zippered Pencil Skirts
A-Line Skirt Sewing Pattern Ideas
Short A-line Styles
Elastic Waist Styles
Elastic Waistband Skirt Pattern, free pattern
High-waist pull-on pencil skirts
Women’s Maxi Skirts
Layer Skirt Ideas
Midi Length Skirt Ideas
Two Piece Skirt and Top Sets
Other Styles
Drawstring waist band skirt, great pattern
Please comment below with any questions or on how your new skirt turns out. I’d love to hear from you! Be sure to subscribe to my mailing list (with your email address) or follow me on social media for more inspiration!
I’m also just starting to add to my YouTube channel. Shameless plug: I’d love it if you would subscribe and like my videos. Check it out!
Thanks for stopping by,
xo,
Cindy