Fifty Dollar Fashion: Woven Maxi Tutorial

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So you have the Jocole Yoga A-Line, and but you're out of knit? Use woven fabric you have on hand to make a super simple gathered version. Here's how!

So you have the Jocole Yoga A-Line, and but you're out of knit? Use woven fabric you have on hand to make a super simple gathered version. Here's how!

When I ransacked my local Jo-Ann's RedTag selection, I didn't have a plan in mind for all the fabric I collected. Heck, I hadn't even dreamt up $50 Fashion yet, much less chosen the 5 patterns I'd use! But I knew, from the very beginning, that this light-weight, pleated fabric was dying to be turned into a maxi. 

I looooooove the Jocole a-line! And I have big plans for it coming up, but as versatile as it is.. it doesn't include a woven skirt option. 

Determined not to let this beautiful (and super cheap!) fabric go to waste, I set my mind to figure out how I could modify the pattern to fulfill my original vision. 

(*we are having a full Sew Along with the Jocole A Line Skirt starting 2/11 - you can get 25% off the pattern with the code: PatternRevolution now through 2/11!!!)

So here's what I had:

  • 2 yards of this light-weight pleated fabric* (if someone knows the real name, please post in comments!)
  • A ribbed knit waistband, made according to pattern instructions.
  • Pattern piece for the maxi skirt.

* if your woven fabric is not light-weight, your results will vary! Use less yardage to reduce bulk around the waistband.

Step 1: Measure the length of your Jocole maxi skirt pattern piece. (Let's call this measurement "X")

Step 2: Open up the 2 yards of fabric. Cut a rectangle "X" down by 2 yards across.

Step 3: Sew the two short sides of the rectangle, right sides together. Finish with a zig zag for a clean finish. You should have one reallllllly large loop of fabric now!

Step 4: Measure your hips across their widest part ("Y"). (This woven fabric needs to fit over our womanly curves!)

Step 5:  Using your machine's longest stitch (or your ruffler foot, or your serger, whichever is your preferred method!) gather the top of your skirt to a circumference of "Y"+2 inches. (Just 'cause I like a comfortable fit!)

Step 6: Match up the raw edges of your yoga waistband and your gathered skirt opening. Stretching the waistband evenly to fit. (Observe pattern instructions to ensure your skirt seam from step #3 is facing the right direction!)

Step 7: Use a stretch stitch to sew the skirt and waistband together. Zig zag the raw edges.

Step 8: Turn right side out, try it on, and adjust length as necessary. Hem per pattern instructions.

Step 9: Strut your stuff!

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Ta-da! Your finished skirt should fit easily over your woman-li-est parts, and the band should be snug and comfortable around your waist. Just like the original pattern! But with any fabric you have on hand :)