1 Download and cut the pattern, then fold three pleats at the top of each front skirt piece. Bring the two outer edges of each pleat together, and fold through the centre to lay them towards the side seam on the right side. Stitch the top of the pleats to secure.

2 Fold the binding in half lengthways and pin in place along the curved edges – do not stretch. Sew the binding in place with a 1cm seam allowance, then neaten it close to the stitching line. Press the binding to sit out from the edge of the skirts. Lay the front right side piece on top of the left to form the tulip shape, then pin across the waistline and stitch.

3 Neaten the base of the back skirt, then lay it on top of the front, right sides facing. The back skirt will be 3cm longer than the front pieces. Pin and stretch-stitch down each side, then neaten the seam allowances. Join the two ends of the waistband with a 1.5cm seam allowance, leaving a gap in the stitching line, then fold the band in half lengthways, wrong sides facing. Match the centre back of the skirt waistline to the waistband seam. Pin in place, stretch the band to fit the waistline and stretch-stitch together. Neaten the seam allowances.

4 Cut a piece of elastic that fits comfortably around your waist and add 2cm. Hook a safety pin to one end and thread the elastic through the waistband, entering and exiting through the gap in the stitching line. Overlap the two ends and sew together. Pull the elastic inside the waistband and hand slip-stitch the gap closed.

5 Fold and press a 3cm hem at the base of the back skirt, stick in place with hemming web, and machine-stitch it so that the hemline is aligned with the edge of the binding on the front skirt pieces.