Facebook Email Pinterest Twitter X Instagram Tiktok Icon YouTube Icon Headphones Icon Favorite Navigation Search Icon Forum Search Icon Main Search Icon Close Icon Video Play Icon Indicator Arrow Icon Close Icon Hamburger/Search Icon Plus Icon Arrow Down Icon Video Guide Icon Article Guide Icon Modal Close Icon Guide Search Icon
How-to

Q&A: Make a Bubble Skirt

Threads magazine - 122 – Dec. 2005/Jan. 2006
Drawing: Martha Garstang Hill

Q: Can you tell me how to make a cloud or balloon hem in an evening gown? I am an experienced tailor and am looking for a few construction tips. ­­

—Anne Ventresco, via email

A: Threads associate editor Judith Neukam replies:

I call it a bubble-style skirt, and it actually requires sewing two skirts.

Make a straight skirt out of muslin, taffeta, or sturdy lining fabric to use as an underskirt. To enable easy pressing after the balloon skirt is constructed, I recommend that you don’t attach the underskirt to the dress at the waist. Instead, install a waistband with a button or hook closure to hold the bubble skirt up without risk of having it slide down, as it could with an elastic waist.

Experiment to determine how long to cut each skirt. Cut the overskirt long enough to allow it to billow out and fall with the lower edge curling under about 4 inches above the actual hemline inside the skirt. Cut the underskirt’s lower edge to meet the turned-under edge of the overskirt. Then gather the overskirt into the waistline, and gather the overskirt’s lower edge into the underskirt’s lower edge.

This article was originally featured in the Q&A department of Threads #122 (December 2005/January 2006).

Discuss

Threads Insider

Get instant access to hundreds of videos, tutorials, projects, and more.

Start Your Free Trial

Already an Insider? Log in

Log in or create an account to post a comment.

More From Threads

Discussion Forum

Recent Posts and Replies

  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |

Threads Insider Exclusives

View All
View All

Highlights