Creating a Gored Skirt Pattern- Step-by-Step Guide to Designing and Drafting Your Own Elegant Gored Skirt

How to Draft a Gored Skirt Pattern

Drafting a gored skirt pattern can be a challenging task for beginners, but with the right steps and techniques, you can create a beautifully tailored skirt that fits perfectly. In this article, we will guide you through the process of drafting a gored skirt pattern, from understanding the concept of gores to creating the final pattern piece.

Understanding Gores

Before diving into the drafting process, it’s essential to understand what gores are. Gores are triangular sections added to the side seams of a skirt to create a full, rounded shape. This shape is particularly flattering for body types that need a bit of extra room around the hips and thighs. Gores are typically found in A-line skirts, empire waists, and circle skirts.

Materials Needed

To draft a gored skirt pattern, you will need the following materials:

– A ruler or measuring tape
– Pattern paper or tracing paper
– A pencil or pen
– A ruler or compass
– A straightedge

Step 1: Measure Your Body

The first step in drafting a gored skirt pattern is to measure your body. You will need to measure your waist, hip, and inseam. Additionally, measure the length you want your skirt to be from the waist to the hem.

Step 2: Calculate the Number of Gores

To determine the number of gores you need, divide your hip measurement by the width of one gore. For instance, if your hip measurement is 36 inches and you want to create three gores, each gore should be 12 inches wide.

Step 3: Draw the Basic Skirt Shape

Using your waist measurement, draw a straight line to represent the waistline. From the waistline, draw a line down to the desired hem length. This will form the basic shape of your skirt.

Step 4: Add the Gores

To add the gores, draw a straight line from the waistline to the hem, creating a triangle. Repeat this process for each gore, ensuring that the width of each gore is equal to the width you calculated in step 2.

Step 5: Connect the Gores

Draw a straight line from the point of each gore to the waistline, connecting the gores to the skirt. This will create the full, rounded shape of the skirt.

Step 6: Adjust the Pattern

Now that you have your basic gored skirt pattern, you may need to make adjustments for fit. Use your body measurements to make any necessary alterations, such as adjusting the waistline, hip curve, or hem length.

Step 7: Trace and Cut the Pattern

Once you are satisfied with the pattern, trace it onto pattern paper or tracing paper. Cut out the pattern pieces and use them to cut out your fabric.

Conclusion

Drafting a gored skirt pattern may seem daunting at first, but with practice and patience, you can create a beautifully tailored skirt that flatters your body. By following these steps and understanding the basics of gores, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a stunning skirt that you can proudly wear.