How to Make a Petticoat

The secret to full skirts and gowns is a petticoat. Unlike a crinoline cage or hoopskirt, which is made from rows of interconnected hoops, a petticoat is composed of layers of gathered fabric. Store-bought petticoats can get very expensive, and there is no guarantee that they will fit the length of your skirt and dress. Luckily, it is easy to make a petticoat at home.

Part 1
Part 1 of 4:

Measuring and Cutting the Fabric

  1. Image titled Make a Petticoat Step 1
    1
    Buy about 4 to 5 yards (3.7 to 4.6 m) of tulle or crinoline. This should be enough for most petticoats. Crinoline is stiff and typically comes in white, although sometimes you can find it in black too. It is great if you want structure and volume. Tulle comes in more colors, but it isn't as stiff as crinoline. It's a better option if you want something that looks pretty.[1]
  2. Image titled Make a Petticoat Step 2
    2
    Measure the length of your skirt and subtract 1 inch (2.5 cm). Find the skirt or dress that you want to wear over the petticoat. Measure the skirt from the waist seam down to the bottom hem. Subtract 1 inch (2.5 cm) and remember this new measurement; you'll use it in the next step.[4]
    • If you are wearing the petticoat with a dress that does not have a waist seam, measure down from the narrowest part of the waist instead.
    • Petticoats are typically 1 inch (2.5 cm) shorter than the skirt or dress worn over them.
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  3. Image titled Make a Petticoat Step 3
    3
    Divide your measurement by 3, then add 1 inch (2.5 cm) for the seams. This will give you the width for each of the 3 tiers on your petticoat. For example, if your skirt is 25 inches (64 cm) long, your petticoat would be 24 inches (61 cm) long. Divided by 3, each tier would be 8 inches (20 cm) wide. After you add 1 inch (2.5 cm) for the seams, the final width will be 9 inches (23 cm).[5]
  4. Image titled Make a Petticoat Step 4
    4
    Cut 2-, 4-, and 8-yard (1.8-, 3.7-, and 7.3-m) strips of fabric for the tiers. You will need 1 2-yard (1.8-m) piece for the top tier, 1 4-yard (3.7-m) piece for the middle tier, and 2 4-yard (3.7-m) pieces for the bottom tier. You will be sewing the 2 4-yard (3.7-m) pieces together for the bottom tier.[6]
    • Use your width measurement from the previous step for the width of the strips.
    • You will have 4 strips in the end: 1 2-yard (1.8-m) strip and 3 4-yard (3.7-m) strips.
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Part 2
Part 2 of 4:

Assembling the Tiers

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    Sew the 2 4-yard (3.7-m) strips together for the bottom tier. Take 2 of the 4-yard (3.7-m) strips. Sew the narrow ends together using a 1/2-inch (1.3-cm) seam allowance and a straight stitch. Finish the raw edges with a zigzag stitch or an overlock stitch for a nicer touch. When you are done, you'll have a strip that is about 8 yards (7.3 m) long.[7]
    • Match the thread color to the fabric as closely as possible. Backstitch when you start and finish sewing to keep the thread from unraveling.
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    2
    Fold, pin, and sew a 1-inch (2.5-cm) ribbon over the bottom hem, if desired. Cut an 8-yard (7.3-m) length of 1-inch (2.5-cm) wide satin ribbon. Fold the ribbon over the bottom edge of your fabric strip and secure it with pins. Sew the ribbon to the strip as close to the edge as possible. Use a thread color that matches the ribbon and a straight stitch. You'll have a 1/2-inch (1.3-cm) ribbon hem when you are done.[8]
    • Remember to remove the pins and to backstitch.
    • For a nicer look, use a ribbon color that matches the fabric.
    • This step is not absolutely necessary, but it will give your petticoat a nicer finish and prevent it from the hem feeling scratchy against your legs.[9]
  3. Image titled Make a Petticoat Step 7
    3
    Sew the ends of the bottom tier to make a ring. Fold the 8-yard (7.3-m) strip in half. Make sure that the right sides are facing in and the seams are facing out. Sew across the narrow ends using a 1/2-inch (1.3-cm) seam allowance and a straight stitch. Finish the raw edges with a zigzag stitch or an overlock stitch.[10]
  4. Image titled Make a Petticoat Step 8
    4
    Sew the ends of the middle tier together to make another ring. Take the 4-yard (3.7-m) strip and bring the narrow ends together to form a ring. Sew across them with a straight stitch and a 1/2-inch (1.3-cm) seam allowance. Go over the raw edge using a zigzag stitch or an overlock stitch.[11]
    • This is just like you sewed the bottom tier except that you are not hemming the bottom edge.
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    5
    Hem the narrow edges of the final fabric strip. Fold both of the narrow ends down by 1/4-inch (0.64-cm), then sew them down using a straight stitch. This will give the opening of your petticoat more structure.[12]
    • Alternatively, hem the narrow edges with 1-inch (2.5-cm) wide ribbon, just like you did for the hem of the bottom tier.
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Part 3
Part 3 of 4:

Gathering the Tiers

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    1
    Sew 2 rows of straight stitches along the top edge of the bottom tier. Sew the first row using a 1/4-inch (0.64-cm) seam allowance and the second row using a 1/2-inch (1.3-cm) seam allowance. Use a straight stitch and a matching thread color for both rows. Do not backstitch.[13]
    • Use a long stitch length and a low tension on your sewing machine. This will make gathering it easier.
  2. Image titled Make a Petticoat Step 11
    2
    Gather the top edge until it is the same size as the middle tier. Place the middle tier into the bottom tier. Find the bobbin threads from your 2 rows of stitching, then pull on them to gather the fabric. Keep pulling until the gathering edge matches the circumference of the middle tier. Knot and cut the excess thread.[14]
    • Cut the excess thread first to make it easier to manage. Tie the threads together, then trim the rest off.
  3. Image titled Make a Petticoat Step 12
    3
    Sew the bottom and middle tiers together using a 1/2-inch (1.3-cm) seam. Double-check to make sure that the right sides of the tiers are facing each other first. Since the tiers are already tucked inside each other, all you have to do is pin and sew along the top edge with a straight stitch and a 1/2-inch (1.3-cm) seam allowance.[15]
    • Remember to backstitch and to take the pins out when you are done!
  4. Image titled Make a Petticoat Step 13
    4
    Fold the seam against the middle tier and topstitch it down. Fold the seam against the middle tier. Secure it with sewing pins, then sew across it with a zigzag stitch. This will give you a cleaner finish as well as prevent the seam from scratching you.[16]
  5. Image titled Make a Petticoat Step 14
    5
    Repeat the process with the middle and top tiers. Sew 2 rows across the top edge of the middle tier. Gather the top edge until it is the same circumference as the top tier. Pin and sew the 2 tiers together with a 1/2-inch (1.3-cm) seam allowance and a straight stitch. Fold the seam against the top tier and topstitch it down with a zigzag stitch.[17]
    • The top tier isn't sewn together into a ring yet. You will have to coil the top tier into a ring and tuck it inside the middle tier to check the size.
  6. Image titled Make a Petticoat Step 15
    6
    Repeat the entire process if you want a 2-layered petticoat. This includes all of the measuring, cutting, gathering, and sewing. When you are done, tuck 1 petticoat into the other with the wrong sides facing in. Sew along the top edge of the petticoat using a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch to hold them together.[18]
    • You are sewing the petticoats with the wrong sides facing in so that you have a clean finish on the inside and outside of the petticoat.
    • For a more colorful petticoat, consider using different colors for each layer.
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Part 4
Part 4 of 4:

Finishing the Petticoat

  1. Image titled Make a Petticoat Step 16
    1
    Gather the top edge of the top tier to your waist measurement. Use the same process as you did for the bottom and middle tiers. Sew 2 rows of stitching, then gather them until the top edges matches your waist measurement. Cut the excess thread off, knot it, then trim it close to the fabric.[19]
  2. Image titled Make a Petticoat Step 17
    2
    Cut a piece of twill tape 3 to 4 inches (7.6 to 10.2 cm) longer than your waist size. Choose a 1 to 2-inch (2.5 to 5.1-cm) wide twill tape that matches the color of your petticoat. Cut it 3 to 4 inches (7.6 to 10.2 cm) longer than your waist measurement. You need this extra length so that you will have room for the overlap and hook closures.[20]
    • For a nicer finish, use satin ribbon instead.
  3. Image titled Make a Petticoat Step 18
    3
    Hem the ends of the twill tape by 1⁄4 inch (0.64 cm). Fold the narrow ends of your twill tape by 1⁄4 inch (0.64 cm). Press them with an iron, then sew them down using a straight stitch.[21]
  4. Image titled Make a Petticoat Step 19
    4
    Fold and pin the twill tape over the top edge of your petticoat. Make sure that the left end of the twill tape aligns with the left edge of the petticoat. The right edge of the twill needs to extend past the right edge of the petticoat.
  5. Image titled Make a Petticoat Step 20
    5
    Sew the twill tape down. Start at the left end of the twill tape and finish on the right. You are sewing past the edge of the petticoat because you want to sew the rest of the twill tape waistband down.[22]
    • Sew as close to the edge of the twill tape as possible.
    • Remember to backstitch and to take out the pins.
  6. Image titled Make a Petticoat Step 21
    6
    Add some hooks and eyes. Add a hook to the underside of the left end of the waistband. Add eyes to the top of the right side of the waistband. The first eye should align with the right edge of the petticoat. If you have enough room, you can add more hooks along the excess, overhanging waistband.[23]
    • Keep the additional eyes 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart. You only need 1 hook, just like on a bra.
    • Sew the hooks and eyes on by hand through the loops at the ends. Alternatively, you can use snaps instead.
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Expert Q&A

  • Question
    How many layers should a petticoat have?
    Alessio Iadicicco
    Alessio Iadicicco
    Apparel Manufacturing Specialist
    Alessio Iadicicco is an Apparel Manufacturing Specialist and the CEO and Co-Founder of MarkersValley, an online apparel and manufacturer sourcing platform that connects luxury fashion brands to a network of highly-vetted, truly Italian manufacturers. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Economy and Management of Financial Enterprises from The University of Naples Federico II. MarkersValley has connected fashion brands in over 100 countries and has a network of over 100 independent Italian factories and artisans. MarkersValley has been featured in Forbes, EQ, St. Louis Business Journal, Il Mattino, and Corriere Della Sera.
    Alessio Iadicicco
    Alessio Iadicicco
    Apparel Manufacturing Specialist
    Expert Answer
    You only need 1 layer if the skirt has a traditional fitting or sheath dress shape and fitting. If you'd like to give the skirt more volume, you'll need 2-3 petticoat layers.
  • Question
    What fabric should I use for a petticoat?
    Alessio Iadicicco
    Alessio Iadicicco
    Apparel Manufacturing Specialist
    Alessio Iadicicco is an Apparel Manufacturing Specialist and the CEO and Co-Founder of MarkersValley, an online apparel and manufacturer sourcing platform that connects luxury fashion brands to a network of highly-vetted, truly Italian manufacturers. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Economy and Management of Financial Enterprises from The University of Naples Federico II. MarkersValley has connected fashion brands in over 100 countries and has a network of over 100 independent Italian factories and artisans. MarkersValley has been featured in Forbes, EQ, St. Louis Business Journal, Il Mattino, and Corriere Della Sera.
    Alessio Iadicicco
    Alessio Iadicicco
    Apparel Manufacturing Specialist
    Expert Answer
    You can use both elastic and non-elastic fabrics to make a petticoat. For more voluminous petticoats, use a more full-boded fabric like taffeta or tulle.
  • Question
    How much cloth is required to stitch a petticoat?
    Alessio Iadicicco
    Alessio Iadicicco
    Apparel Manufacturing Specialist
    Alessio Iadicicco is an Apparel Manufacturing Specialist and the CEO and Co-Founder of MarkersValley, an online apparel and manufacturer sourcing platform that connects luxury fashion brands to a network of highly-vetted, truly Italian manufacturers. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Economy and Management of Financial Enterprises from The University of Naples Federico II. MarkersValley has connected fashion brands in over 100 countries and has a network of over 100 independent Italian factories and artisans. MarkersValley has been featured in Forbes, EQ, St. Louis Business Journal, Il Mattino, and Corriere Della Sera.
    Alessio Iadicicco
    Alessio Iadicicco
    Apparel Manufacturing Specialist
    Expert Answer
    If you're using an elastic fabric, purchase material that's at least 1.2 m (3.9 ft) in length and 1.4 m (4.6 ft) in width. If your dress is made with silk or another non-elastic fabric, your fabric must be 2.4-2.5 m (7.8-9.2 ft) long and 1.4 m (4.6 ft) wide.
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Things You'll Need

  • 4 to 5 yards (3.7 to 4.6 m) tulle or crinoline
  • Measuring tape
  • Fabric scissors
  • Sewing pins
  • Sewing machine
  • Thread
  • 1-inch (2.5-cm) satin ribbon
  • 1 to 2-inch (2.5 to 5.1-cm) wide twill tape
  • Hooks and eyes

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References

  1. ↑ http://dixiediy.com/2016/04/crinoline-petticoat-tutorial.html
  2. ↑ http://thisblogisnotforyou.com/petticoat_tutorial/
  3. ↑ Alessio Iadicicco. Apparel Manufacturing Specialist. Expert Interview. 16 June 2021.
  4. ↑ http://thisblogisnotforyou.com/petticoat_tutorial/
  5. ↑ http://thisblogisnotforyou.com/petticoat_tutorial/
  6. ↑ http://dixiediy.com/2016/04/crinoline-petticoat-tutorial.html
  7. ↑ http://dixiediy.com/2016/04/crinoline-petticoat-tutorial.html
  8. ↑ http://thisblogisnotforyou.com/petticoat_tutorial/
  9. ↑ https://www.rocknrollbride.com/2011/11/diy-tutorial-multi-layered-tulle-petticoat-make-your-own-rainbow-petticoat/
  1. ↑ http://dixiediy.com/2016/04/crinoline-petticoat-tutorial.html
  2. ↑ http://dixiediy.com/2016/04/crinoline-petticoat-tutorial.html
  3. ↑ http://dixiediy.com/2016/04/crinoline-petticoat-tutorial.html
  4. ↑ http://thisblogisnotforyou.com/petticoat_tutorial/
  5. ↑ http://dixiediy.com/2016/04/crinoline-petticoat-tutorial.html
  6. ↑ http://dixiediy.com/2016/04/crinoline-petticoat-tutorial.html
  7. ↑ http://dixiediy.com/2016/04/crinoline-petticoat-tutorial.html
  8. ↑ http://dixiediy.com/2016/04/crinoline-petticoat-tutorial.html
  9. ↑ https://www.rocknrollbride.com/2011/11/diy-tutorial-multi-layered-tulle-petticoat-make-your-own-rainbow-petticoat/
  10. ↑ http://dixiediy.com/2016/04/crinoline-petticoat-tutorial.html
  11. ↑ http://dixiediy.com/2016/04/crinoline-petticoat-tutorial.html
  12. ↑ http://dixiediy.com/2016/04/crinoline-petticoat-tutorial.html
  13. ↑ http://dixiediy.com/2016/04/crinoline-petticoat-tutorial.html
  14. ↑ http://dixiediy.com/2016/04/crinoline-petticoat-tutorial.html

About This Article

Alessio Iadicicco
Co-authored by:
Alessio Iadicicco
Apparel Manufacturing Specialist
This article was co-authored by Alessio Iadicicco. Alessio Iadicicco is an Apparel Manufacturing Specialist and the CEO and Co-Founder of MarkersValley, an online apparel and manufacturer sourcing platform that connects luxury fashion brands to a network of highly-vetted, truly Italian manufacturers. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Economy and Management of Financial Enterprises from The University of Naples Federico II. MarkersValley has connected fashion brands in over 100 countries and has a network of over 100 independent Italian factories and artisans. MarkersValley has been featured in Forbes, EQ, St. Louis Business Journal, Il Mattino, and Corriere Della Sera. This article has been viewed 353,013 times.
20 votes - 95%
Co-authors: 16
Updated: February 28, 2023
Views: 353,013
Categories: Clothes by Type
Article SummaryX

To make a petticoat, start by purchasing 4 to 5 yards of tulle or crinoline. Next, measure from the waist seam to the bottom hem of the skirt you plan on wearing over the petticoat, and subtract 1 inch. Then, divide this number by 3 and add 1 inch for the seams to get the width for each of the 3 tiers of the petticoat. Once you have all of your measurements, cut the strips of fabric accordingly, and assemble your tiers with a straight stitch and a ½ inch seam allowance. Finally, after the tiers are done, sew them together. To learn how to make a 2 layer petticoat, keep reading!

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