A-Line Panel Skirt

An A-line skirt is a wardrobe essential! This version is made up of stylish panels that add subtle interest to the classic design. The project is a great choice for those who have never added a lining or inserted a concealed zip. What’s more, the wool felt used for this design doesn’t fray – so the hem of the skirt can be left raw to incredibly chic effect.

Essentials

Wool felt, 1m (1.4m wide)

Lining fabric, 1m

23cm concealed zip

Sizes

8-20

Dimensions List

Note: cut along the line at the hem of each of the panels as indicated on the pattern.
Centre-front: cut one pair each from wool felt and lining fabric
Centre-back: cut one pair each from wool felt and lining fabric
Side: cut two pairs each from wool felt and lining fabric
1.5cm seam allowance used throughout.

1 Download and print the pattern at sewmag.co.uk/templates. Cut out all the pieces according to the cutting guide. Pin the two centrefront fabric pieces right sides together and stitch along the long straight edge. Repeat for the centre-back. Match the notches of the fabric centre-front panel to a side piece. Pin, stitch, then press the seams open. Add the other side panel in the same way. Repeat for the back.

2 Match the side seams of the front and back, right sides together. Sew one of the seams from the base to the zip notch – the other side seam can be stitched all the way to the waistline. Press the seams open.

3 Fold and press the seam allowance along the two sides of the side opening. Open out the seam allowance and, with the fabric right side up, place the opened zip face-down, matching the teeth to the crease line in the seam allowance.

4 Pin and stitch one side of the zip, using either a zipper or concealed zipper foot. Back stitch, then stitch the other side of the zip in the same way. Carefully thread the zip pull through to the right side and pull up to close.

5 Make up the lining in the same way, omitting the zip, then neaten the seam allowances together by overlocking or using a zigzag stitch. Neaten the base of the lining, press a 1cm hem, pin, then edgestitch.

6 Turn the skirt right sides out, then place the unturned lining over the top, aligning the panel seams. Stitch around the waistline. Press the waistband towards the lining, then understitch. Place the lining inside the skirt, then press the waistline. Fold the edges of the lining in either side of the zip, press, then hand stitch.

7 At the top of each seam around the waistline from the lining side, catch the lining with a few hand stitches to the seam allowances of the skirt to ensure that it sits inside it.