How to Make a Simple Tennis Skirt

Introduction

Tennis skirts have gained significant popularity as comfortable and stylish attire for both playing tennis and everyday wear. While you can find a variety of tennis skirts in stores, making your own can be a fun and rewarding experience. In this article, we will guide you step-by-step on how to create a simple tennis skirt that fits perfectly and shows off your personal style. From selecting the right fabric to adding finishing touches, we will cover all the information you need to create a beautiful and functional tennis skirt.

Choosing the Fabric

The first step in making a tennis skirt is selecting the right fabric. Since comfort and flexibility are key when playing tennis, it's important to choose a fabric that is lightweight, breathable, and has some stretch. Ideal fabric choices include cotton blends, spandex, or polyester. These fabrics allow for easy movement and help in controlling sweat during intense matches. You can choose solid colors, prints, or even mix and match different patterns to create a uniquely stylish tennis skirt.

Taking Accurate Measurements

To ensure a well-fitting tennis skirt, taking accurate measurements is crucial. You will need measurements for your waist, hips, and desired skirt length. Use a flexible measuring tape to take these measurements, and make sure the tape is not too tight or loose around your body. Note down these measurements, as they will help you in determining the size of the pattern you will later create.

Drafting the Pattern

Once you have your measurements, it's time to draft the pattern for your tennis skirt. You can either purchase a ready-made pattern from a fabric store or create your own. If you choose to create your own pattern, start by drawing a rectangle on a large piece of paper. The width of the rectangle should be the measurement of your hips plus extra for ease, and the length should be your desired skirt length plus hem allowance.

Cutting and Sewing

Using the pattern, carefully cut the fabric for your tennis skirt. Make sure to follow the cutting lines precisely to ensure accuracy. Once you have your fabric pieces, pin them together with the right sides facing each other. Start sewing along the waistline, leaving a small space open for inserting an elastic or drawstring later. Trim any excess fabric and finish the raw edges with a serger or zigzag stitch to prevent fraying.

Incorporating Elastic or Drawstring

To provide a secure fit, most tennis skirts incorporate an elastic or drawstring in the waistband. To add an elastic, measure around your waist and cut the elastic accordingly. Insert the elastic into the waistband opening and sew the ends together securely. If you prefer a drawstring, sew a small buttonhole into the waistband near the front, and thread a string or ribbon through it, allowing you to tighten or loosen the waistband as desired.

Creating Pleats or Gathers

To add a touch of flair to your tennis skirt, you can incorporate pleats or gathers. Pleats provide a more structured look, while gathers add volume and a feminine touch. You can create pleats by folding the fabric along the waistline, pinning it in place, and securing it with stitches. Gathers involve sewing two or more rows of long stitches along the waistline and pulling the threads to achieve desired fullness. Experiment with both techniques to find the look that suits you best.

Adding Pockets

Adding pockets to your tennis skirt can be both stylish and functional. Decide on the size and placement of the pockets, and cut fabric pieces accordingly. Pin the pocket pieces onto the skirt, right sides facing each other, and sew around the edges, leaving a small opening for turning them right side out. Once turned, stitch the opening closed, ensuring the pocket is securely attached to the skirt.

Hemming the Skirt

The final step in making a tennis skirt is hemming the bottom. Fold over the edge of the fabric by half an inch and press it down. Then fold it over again to hide the raw edge and press it in place. Secure the hem by sewing along the folded edge using a straight stitch or a twin needle. Take your time to ensure a neat and even hemline, as it adds to the overall look of the skirt.

Conclusion

Making your own tennis skirt allows you to unleash your creativity and customize it to your liking. Whether you're a tennis enthusiast or someone who appreciates stylish sportswear, following these steps will help you create a simple tennis skirt that fits perfectly and complements your style. Remember to choose the right fabric, take accurate measurements, draft a pattern, and sew with precision. With a little practice and patience, you'll soon have a beautiful tennis skirt that will make you feel confident and comfortable on and off the court.