Measurements you need
Tape horizontal around the narrowest part of your torso, usually ¾–1⅝ in above the navel. Snug but not tight; don't pull in your stomach.Tape horizontal around the narrowest part of your torso, usually 2–4 cm above the navel. Snug but not tight; don't pull in your stomach.
Usually 22⅞–43¼ in.Usually 58–110 cm.Tape horizontal around the fullest part of your buttocks, allowing for the curve of your stomach. Stand straight, feet together.Tape horizontal around the fullest part of your buttocks, allowing for the curve of your stomach. Stand straight, feet together.
Usually 33⅛–51⅛ in.Usually 84–130 cm.At the side, from the waistline down to the level where you measured the hip. It helps to tie a ribbon at the waist and measure from it.At the side, from the waistline down to the level where you measured the hip. It helps to tie a ribbon at the waist and measure from it.
Usually 7⅛–8⅝ in.Usually 18–22 cm.At the side from the waistline down to the desired hem. For a knee-length skirt — about 23⅝ in, for pants — to the floor or to the ankle bone.At the side from the waistline down to the desired hem. For a knee-length skirt — about 60 cm, for pants — to the floor or to the ankle bone.
Skirt 15¾–39⅜ in, pants 35⅜–43¼ in, shorts 11¾–21⅝ in.Skirt 40–100 cm, pants 90–110 cm, shorts 30–55 cm.Which fit to choose
Fit is all about ease: how much extra room to add to your body measurements. Choose it in the "Fit, ease and seams" section — the numbers fill in automatically, and you can adjust them.
| Fit | At the waist | At the hip | When to choose it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Close-fitting | +¼ in0.5 cm | +⅜ in1 cm | Snug against the body. For fabrics with elastane and for a pencil skirt. |
| Standard | +⅜ in1 cm | +¾ in2 cm | Follows the figure with room to move. Works for most fabrics. |
| Loose | +⅝ in1.5 cm | +1⅝ in4 cm | Relaxed, not clinging to the hips. For firm fabrics with no stretch and a loose silhouette. |
How the A-line is drafted
From waist to hip it's the same darted block as a straight skirt. Below the hip line the side seam flares out by the amount you set, while its length stays the same as on a straight skirt — otherwise the skirt would come out shorter at the sides. The hem is curved and meets both the center and the side seam at a right angle.
How to print and tape
Download the PDF on Letter or A4 sheets and print at 100% scale, without "fit to page". The first sheet has the test square: check it with a ruler. Sheets overlap along the ⅜ in1 cm strips; sheet numbers and the assembly guide are on the first page. For a copy shop or plotter, choose "One-sheet PDF".
What you get
Full-size front and back for an A-line skirt: darts, hip line, grainline, curved hem, seam allowances and hem allowance.
FAQ
How much should I flare the skirt at the hem?
For a slight A-line, 1⅛–2 in3–5 cm on each side; for a pronounced A-line, 2⅜–3⅞ in6–10 cm. The wider the hem, the easier the stride and the more fabric you'll need.
Why isn't the hem straight?
When the skirt flares, the side seams run at an angle, so to keep the skirt the same length all the way around, the hem rises at the side. The pattern maker drafts it so the hem meets the seam at a right angle — the hem allowance will lie flat without puckering.
Will the pattern work for a larger size?
Yes, measurements can be entered from 50 up to 63 in160 cm. If the difference between hip and waist is too big for a darted skirt, the pattern maker will let you know and suggest a different style.
What fabric should I use for an A-line skirt?
Fabrics that hold their shape: denim, suiting wool, crisp cotton, corduroy. Soft, drapey fabrics work better for a circle skirt.