When it comes to fashion design, precise measurements and math are extremely important. Combine the power of math and fashion in this experiment to make your own beautiful skirt!
Materials:
Fabric, measuring tape, pins, scissors, sewing machine or needle and thread, ¾ inch Elastic (optional), invisible zipper (optional)
Time Estimated:
1-2 hours
Advanced Directions:
Measure around your waist with the measuring tape. Double that number, add 1 inch for seam allowance, and then divide this number by 2*pi
Radius = (waist measurement + 1)/(2pi)
Fold your fabric in half and at one corner along the seam, draw a quarter circle with the radius you measured above
Measure your desired skirt length
Draw a larger quarter circle measuring from your first circle plus your desired length
Cut fabric along the lines you’ve drawn
Cut a rectangle of fabric for the waist band about 2 inches wide and as long as the waist of your skirt
Fold the waist band in half and put the waist of the skirt in between. Sew all together
Fold the skirt in half inside out and sew down the side with a straight stitch leaving room for a zipper at the top
Attach the zipper by putting it on the inside and sewing around it
Hem the edges
Beginner Directions:
Measure around your waist with the measuring tape and multiply it by 2 for a full skirt plus add an additional inch for seam allowance
Fabric width = waist measurement x 2 + 1
Measure from waist to desired skirt length plus an additional 2 inches for the waistband and hem
Fabric length = desired length measurement + 2
Choose fabric and cut to your measurements (making a big rectangle)
Cut the elastic using your waist measurement plus an inch for seam allowance
Elastic length = waist measurement + 1
Fold fabric in half lengthwise so the good sides (the outside of the fabric) are facing each other
Sew the short sides together in a straight line to make side seam
Fold the top edge of the fabric down 1 inch (towards the inside of the fabric) and pin. Sew all the way around EXCEPT for a 1 inch hole that will let you feed the elastic in.
Feed the elastic into the waistband using a safety pin. Once you get it all the way in, overlap the ends and sew them down securely. Cut off any extra elastic and close the hole in the waistband.
Fold the bottom up 1 inch towards the inside and sew around to hem
Think Like A Scientist:
Draw a circle and label the circumference, diameter and radius.
What is pi (think “how do you calculate pi”)? Are there other numbers that never end like pi?
Looking for more fun at home STEM activities for your young scientist? Check out our workbook full of exciting science experiments and empowering activities!
