Skirt Sewing Shortcuts | Pattern Hack | New Look 6843 | Sheepishly Sewing #1

[@kaysnestlife1671]

Thank you for sharing this!!! You have made attaching a zipper look so easy. I also love the idea of skipping the waist band.

[@Maridith2]

Well, this video was such a ‘light bulb’ for me! I loved the zip application, the lining trick and the waist finish! This video just made me happy! A big thank you!

[@sheepishlysharing]

I'm so glad there was something you found it useful, Maridith! Lots of shortcuts but not a soul can tell from the outside!

[@libbylibbi]

It doesn't matter how many times I watch this video I see something different each time. Thank you I love it!!!!

[@sheepishlysharing]

I can't imagine what all you're seeing but I'm glad to know it has some value!! 😍

[@SewingforHobby]

Taking short cuts is always a good thing especially if it saves you time. I can't wait to give this a try. My cutting isn't always the best so I decided to throw out the unfinished project and try again. This time taking time to make the darn thing. Thanks again.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Well, shortcuts have their place but they're not ALWAYS a good thing! These happen to work well for me. Yeah... you have to be really careful when you're cutting out so the pieces come out perfectly neat like the pattern. No shortcuts for that step!

[@andrewaiello-hauser4256]

"Where the heck are you taking your clothes off?" I really did laugh out loud.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Well.... it's a question! Seriously, though... nicely finished seams = quality work. Not a big issue for me though!

[@andrewaiello-hauser4256]

One reason I enjoy your videos so much is that you are like me - good enough is good enough!

[@Butterflyjonesful]

Margaret. I cannot thank you enough for this video. I have had the same e a t pattern for years as well. I have been wanting to make the skirt without the waistband and didn't know how it would work. Love the idea of the tape for the zipper. Why didn't I think of that. My dad was a tailor. I grew up sitting by his feet watching and learning. I do things the old fashion way. Albeit not much has changed but I love the shortcuts. Now I can sew my skirt. Also great idea for the "lining". Now to cut out a skirt. Many thanks. BTW I have been sewing since I was 8 years old. I am now 54. Always learning. Lol

[@sheepishlysharing]

Oh, wow, Vanessa... a tailor for a dad! He would cringe at this video! I'm the queen of the shortcuts so never look to me for proper sewing technique. My goal it to make it look good on the outside in the fastest amount of time with the least amount of fiddling! Doubling the fabric (rather than doing a proper lining) also saves time with fabric care. You WILL need to iron this before wearing and it's so much easier to iron like this as opposed to a properly-made cotton lining! And remember, there are lots of methods for zipper applications so if you try this and don't like it, search KZbin for other ideas!

[@SewingforHobby]

Finally the zipper was given me some problems, so now I'll have to try it with wonder tape. That is a good advice. You are a good teacher better then the other videos I saw a few weeks ago. Nice job!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thank you, Lisa! Yes, do give this a try but if you don't like this method, keep searching KZbin because there are lots of methods for zipper insertion.

[@beverlyevangerandteddy1769]

i use to sew all the time. i made my son his clothes til he got to be a teen. i made clothes for myself and my mom. i bought old muu muu patterns, cut short and boom you got a nice comfy smoke/shirt. i sew enjoyed watching you. no matter what your talking about, you make it informational and easy and oh sew fun.....

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thank you, Beverly! And yeah... teenage boys don't go for mom sewing clothes. You don't sew for yourself anymore?

[@beverlyevangerandteddy1769]

no hun. i put alot of weight on and its hard to find patterns, and my legs won't let me jump up and down. i sewed all thru high school, then up til my health started failing.

[@SewingforHobby]

I finally solve all the mistakes that I have been doing. It was such a relief because I was struggling to get started on skirts. I had made one gather skirt with a help of a friend but I had forgotten where to begin. I am new to skirt making. I finally got started and took some pictures so I can remember where I had to sew along the folded side. My mistake was that I did it on the wrong side. What an idiot. Oh well live and learn from your mistakes and now just waiting on order that wonder tape. Found mine on amazon.com. I shall complete my skirt soon. Plus I put fabric markers on the wrong side of the back of the skirt so I know which one is which. It does help to mark them because you want to know the front from the back. Once again you a good teacher. Will watch the video until I get it right. Thank you so much for this information, I had been waiting for a good video on skirts to come out. Really good job.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thank you! I'd love to see your finished project!

[@lothrop53]

I made my skirt cut out two more. I love wearing it I haven't wore a straight skirt since the 80s. I never would have. I feel so happy I made it it fits. Thank you Margaret!!!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Fun! I'd love to see them! Post a pic somewhere and send me the link! (Join the Facebook group?!)

[@summerking8659]

I've always had problems inserting zips and can't believe how simple a process you have shown here. Even without the wonder web I'm sure I will make this work. And that is a cool tip about the second piece of fabric from the sheet to use with lighter cotton fabrics. Thanks a mill Margaret :-)

[@sheepishlysharing]

Works for me! I live in these little skirts!

[@lakeke80]

Thank you very much Margaret i soo easy to understand your ways I'm a total beginner and i now have the confidence to start cutting love you from Michigan

[@sheepishlysharing]

I'm so glad, Raquel! This is a super skirt to start with. You'll get experience with different sewing aspects like darts, zippers and hems but it's not too challenging! Have fun!

[@mysteryglo]

Great tips and tricks for sewing a skirt. Cute skirt too!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thank you, Judy... I'm the queen of the shortcuts so never look to me for proper sewing technique. My goal it to make it look good on the outside in the fastest amount of time with the least amount of fiddling! It's one of those "it works for me" things!

[@DixieGirl9876]

Great demo Margaret! I'm going to use your tip with the tape for the next zipper I sew, thanks.I like to use little weights to hold my pattern in place while cutting, small squares of fabric sewn together and filled with pellets. That way I always have them on hand, cause it never fails my spray will run out in the middle of a project.lol

[@sheepishlysharing]

Yes... weights are popular! I've never used them... not sure why not but I haven't!

[@Butterflyjonesful]

DixieGirl9876 One can also use cans of food or some other item on hand. Great idea

[@Maridith2]

I just picked up this pattern today and was so happy to find your tutorial with some great tips! Love the lining hack! You made this skirt look easy, I can’t wait to tackle it. Thank you for sharing!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Oh! I love this pattern! My "cheater tips" are great for getting started and later you can focus on proper finishing, etc! Ha! (I own a serger now that I'm having great fun with!)

[@maryellenkinkel8525]

You are a hoot! Thanks for sharing your quick tips with us. Don't know that I learned anything, but it sure was fun. Thanks a lot ME I so agree with you about no one seeing the inside of your skirt. Thank God we have graduated from 4-H projects

[@sheepishlysharing]

I'm the queen of the shortcuts so I hope no one ever looks to me for proper sewing technique. My goal it to make it look good on the outside in the fastest amount of time with the least amount of fiddling! I never did 4-H... were they sticklers for "proper perfection?!?"

[@maryellenkinkel8525]

Ribbons Your sewing was judged every year. The good news was you really learned how to do it right. So as an adult I take shortcuts now to make things faster, but I can make it really precise if I want to.

[@SewingforHobby]

My second attempt was a success! I am so excited to try other projects. I had struggle at first to understand which way to sew along the edges but it turn out right. If you don't succeed the first try then try again. Thank you so much. I have fun learning with you along the way to improve on my own skills Thanks so much!

[@lothrop53]

I've been sewing for years. I have gotten so much joy making this skirt. My pattern had vent in the back simple to do but so extremely satisfying to see. I made it first without darts I wore it all day. I decided to put the back darts in. I checked every woman with a skirt I saw,I needed mine hemmed 2 1/2 inches. It is now tweaked, pattern altered. I'm going to make another one.

[@sheepishlysharing]

I agree! So fun and satisfying! Make a million since they never seem to go out of style!

[@nancymarchefka3244]

Hi Margaret love this sewing tutorial I use to make all my clothes in the 60's oooo dated myself there and these skirts were all the rage and so comfy very classic still love them....thanks❤️Happy Mothers Day

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thank you, Nancy! You can't beat a classic skirt. Period.

[@jennyleigh63]

Great video! Wonder Tape is the bomb! I use it all the time!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Agreed! Wonder Tape is like a magic trick!

[@johnkelly60278]

Great skirt for beginners! (Yes I'm a boy but it's the most basic and very first project I made next to shorts). One suggestion about attaching zippers, try to get the zipper teeth close as possible to the zipper tooth while the needle is set in center position to grab as much of the fabric and the zipper tape while sewing and not hitting the zipper teeth. I'm a bit meticulous about seams and attaching zippers and pinning is not enough, so basting is the best way.

[@sheepishlysharing]

You don't have to WEAR everything you sew! I agree. Skirts ARE great for beginners!

[@eileen5464]

Thank you so much! I am a complete beginner and thanks to you I am feeling confident to give making a skirt a go. I have just ordered this pattern and I will be following this clip as I make it. I am excited now. Thank you. X

[@sheepishlysharing]

You're so welcome, Eileen! A proper sewing teacher probably wound't like these shortcuts but no one can tell from the outside! Remember to always wash and dry your fabrics before you cut anything out. (Let's the fabric shrink BEFORE sewing!)

[@eileen5464]

@@sheepishlysharing thank you! I have made a couple of skirts and they are amazing! Thanks to you I am going to give a dress pattern ago!

[@dawndorrill9530]

Loved it!!! Have been sewing for years, but never put in a zipper. I may have to give this a try!! Thank you for your help!!

[@sheepishlysharing]

I need to learn to do an invisible zipper next but this version works really well for me so I tend to shy away from learning a different way! Let me know how it turns out!

[@theresaharley8092]

OMG, this is too funny. I have this same pattern for over 12 yrs now and started making skirt A but never finished it. I was and still am a beginner and couldn't figure out how to do the waist band. I'm just pulling my machine out again after 9 yrs and I want to finish it and other dresses. Thank you so much for your easy steps and I can't wait to finally finish my skirt. I will have to find someone to give it to since it's to small but I will be making another one that I can fit. I even love your technique on the zipper, thanks again.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Oh yes... my lazy tips are excellent for beginners! I can also relate to projects “on hold.” I always have at least 1!

[@pldaniels38]

Finally!!!! SIMPLE and exact. Love ya

[@sheepishlysharing]

I love simple!! Glad you liked it!

[@cindymitchell6525]

Thank you for your helpful and quick tips.

[@SewingforHobby]

Thanks! I will keep updating it when I get going.

[@Beatriz-tt3le]

Thank you for all the tips, used the pattern, tape and was easy to see the zipper, only thing that I had a hard time with the seam size. I sort of guessed and made my skirt.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Glad it was helpful, Beatriz! Now that you've made one, you can make adjustments for the next one! I love this little pattern!

[@sewgatormomm]

Thank you, thank you, thank you! You have inspired me. I just finished a dinosaur skirt that I will wear to my grandson's 4th birthday party. He'll get a kick out of it, and I got to practice your shortcuts. Next one, I'll go down a size, but I am loving this pattern and your helpful ideas.

[@sheepishlysharing]

What an adorable idea from a fun grandmother!! You need to get some great pictures!!!

[@kevin1877uk]

Really interesting Margaret on how you make your skirts, I liked how you put the zip in. I don't think I would look good in a skirt so I think I would give it a miss lol

[@sheepishlysharing]

No.... this skirt isn't right for you, Kevin! Maybe we could practice kilts?! 😜

[@roseculp2924]

I totally love your short cuts! thank you!

[@sheepishlysharing]

For short cuts.... I've got it going on but never look to me for proper sewing techniques!! Thanks, Rose!

[@TheBlueberryBee]

Hey, Margaret! Your hair looks really nice! : ) I have never used Wonder Tape -- I just may have to track that down. Thanks for the tips. And I agree that pressing makes all the difference!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thank you, Grace! I think I need to stick with this hair length for a while. (Judging from vague comments from my family, I don't think they like very short hair on me!) And it looks like I just introduced you to your new best friend: Wonder Tape! I love that stuff!

[@KatieT81]

Love this! I hope you plan to do more sewing videos in the future! : )

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thank you, Katie, and I had no idea so many people were interested in sewing! I didn't plan on making this until I had requests so who knows!? I haven't sewn in a while so if I stay on this kick I may just have to add more sewing in!

[@fabulousmarilyn3.088]

Thank you, thank you and thanks again.very well spoken. Tips are great {the sheet, awesome} 👍👌

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thanks, Marilyn!

[@barbarajackson5350]

You took the scary part of putting in a zipper away!! Thank you!! I will get some of that tape for my next one....I have a love/hate relationship with pins!! Thanks again Ms Margaret!!

[@sheepishlysharing]

That tape will be your new best friend, Barbara! So handy dandy!

[@maureencapobianco3596]

Thank you for such a helpful video! I used a Simplicity pattern (1465), and all your tips made a big difference! 😁

[@sheepishlysharing]

Oooo! Another shortcut sewist, Maureen?! Hahaha! Glad I had a tip or two to share!

[@art4fun437]

Great help. I have never tried making clothes and am a little nervous reading patterns but your video helped, thanks :-)👍

[@sheepishlysharing]

You know... sometimes those pattern instructions can be confusing. Look to KZbin for techniques if you get stuck. For ex: If you're trying to do a collar, you can search KZbin to see a demo AND you'll see different methods out there, too, for achieving the exact same collar! (BTW, a any style skirt is an excellent project to start with!)

[@trychrochet71]

love skirts and the one you made

[@sheepishlysharing]

awww.... thank you, Jacquie! Summer staples!

[@juliadroy1179]

Great techniques, lovely skirt

[@jeanarchi1933]

Thanks for the demo, I have that pattern, and will now try your method.

[@sheepishlysharing]

I'm the queen of the shortcuts so never look to me for proper sewing technique. My goal it to make it look good on the outside in the fastest amount of time with the least amount of fiddling! Let me know how it works out, Jean!

[@TheYarnaholic]

If I wore skirts or could sew, I would make this and wear it because it looks easy & fun 👍

[@sheepishlysharing]

Well, after watching this, you could probably sew just fine using the Margaret Olander Sewing Method. You'd have the best dressed Creepy Dolls on the planet!

[@judiethompson208]

I am so inspired!! you make this look so easy I love the idea of doubling fabric with sheet.I love quilting fabrics but too flimsy for clothes never even thought to double. Thanks for zipper demo and all the tips! What else do you know Margaret that we need to know?

[@sheepishlysharing]

Hahaha! Who knows what's rattling around inside this head of mine!?! I had no idea people would be interested in my unorthodox sewing methods! I'm the queen of the shortcuts so never look to me for proper sewing technique. My goal it to make it look good on the outside in the fastest amount of time with the least amount of fiddling! Doubling the fabric (rather than doing a proper lining) also saves time with fabric care. You WILL need to iron this before wearing and it's so much easier to iron like this as opposed to a properly-made cotton lining!

[@SewingReport]

Margaret - there is a real name/term for what you're doing with doubling up the fabric! It's called underlining your main fabric.

[@sheepishlysharing]

No way! "Underlining." I thought I was cheating and yet I was doing a real technique! Thank you, Jennifer!

[@MYSTICFROG43]

Super easy skirt making love it .:) You are so great at the short cut's so cool.: ) I love watching this video so simple , i cant wait to try to make me a long skirt and a short one too. :) Loved the easy zipper part so easy.:) Thank you for taking the loving time to show us all loved it wow lovely. :) Have a great week . :) Hug's toni g.:)

[@sheepishlysharing]

Yes... I'm the queen of the shortcuts so never look to me for proper sewing technique. My goal it to make it look good on the outside in the fastest amount of time with the least amount of fiddling! Thanks for the sweet words as always, Toni!

[@lizsparkes3838]

What a joy to watch, I like her :-)

[@sheepishlysharing]

What a lovely compliment, Liz! I've been out of the loop lately due to some family health problems and your comment brought a much needed smile so thank you for that!

[@cottagekeeper1044]

Thanks so much🌸

[@sheepishlysharing]

You're very welcome!

[@aliciabell4850]

I love this way of sewing the waste-band. TY for sharing. Pls pray for me. I've not been feeling good yet and I been sick for a while now. But I changed Dr's so the 24th I'll see what he says.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Oh, no! How frustrating! Good move on your part. Second opinion is often necessary. It's imperative to get to the root of the problem 'cause just treating the symptoms really gets you no where. Of course, I'll pray, sweet Alicia.

[@MsBev63]

Loved your video.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thank you, MsBev! I'm just happy to have people like you to share my interests with!

[@Butterflyjonesful]

Lol. I love the shortcut ideas.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thank you, Vanessa! I'm the queen of shortcuts... not always a good thing but it works here!

[@cottagekeeper1044]

I would love to know some of your Weight loss and management tips. Thank you so much for considering🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸

[@sheepishlysharing]

Hmmm.... That's such a touchy subject as so many people have distinct and varying views. One thing we all agree on is portion size. We, Americans, are too used to seeing sizes that are far too large. 9 out of 10 times, people are guessing at their calorie consumption and they really need to weigh and measure to keep it at or below the calorie count for their weight loss.

[@letacarr6121]

Thank you for that zipper tip! I've always hated putting zipper in! Question: How do you keep your pattern pieces from wearing out after reusing? I have a favorite skirt pattern also and years ago I ironed fusible interfacing onto my pieces to keep them durable.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Oh, Leta!! What a genius idea to preserve your patterns!! Thank you! My pattern has clear tape on the corners and frequently-pinned places. As a matter of fact, I just traced it onto a thick paper last week. Your idea is much better! Re: Zippers... there are so many different methods for zipper application so if you give this a try and don't like it, search KZbin for more ideas!

[@letacarr6121]

Thank you, sweet lady! I will certainly try that zipper technique! 😇

[@teresaoswell2685]

Hi Margaret Thanks for this video I have bought the pattern off eBay and I am waiting for my fabric to arrive so with your video I should be fine Thanks again. Teresa

[@sheepishlysharing]

Oh, FUN! I want to see it when you're finished!

[@teresaoswell2685]

Definitely will let you know the result how ever it turns out lol but I am a bit more confident with your video so thanks again.

[@careya]

I use Sharpies all the time when marking fabric. I know I will regret it someday, but I’ve been sewing for 15 yrs or so and it hasn’t happened yet.

[@sandygrogg1203]

Off the subject... Bur...as I think I told you, I am exploring the world of hats...mostly fir charity.. I was looking fir a good prayer shawl, for a recently widowed friend, when I ran across your oh so pretty KSK hat... I like your version much bette than the original.. Can't wait to try it.. What size needle did you use... I'm guessing 8 or 10.. Thanks for a great hat!

[@sheepishlysharing]

What's my KSK hat?!

[@ashlovnerdcrafts]

I use washable crayon to mark fabric 😄

[@sheepishlysharing]

Brilliant choice, Ashley! I never thought of that!!

[@lothrop53]

Do you make tops?

[@sheepishlysharing]

Yes. I'll make whatever floats my boat at the moment!

[@aletasneed3832]

Sweatheart You Make Me Laugh Aleta Sneed

[@SewingforHobby]

I try to give you my blog website, I'll post new pictures of the skirts there to see. Right now, I am waiting on two things, the seam ripper and the wonder tape. But today I will iron and do the darts for the top of the skirt. By Saturday it should be all complete. Will take pictures as I go along. My blog website is Sewingforhobby.blogspot.com Stop by anytime.

[@sheepishlysharing]

I just looked and the fabric is so pretty!