Bell Skirt: A Half-Circle Skirt Without a Pattern

A half-circle skirt has a lovely drape and fullness, created simply by the way the fabric is cut. In this guide, I’ll walk you through making one without printing, tracing, or assembling a paper pattern.

Instead, you’ll use your own measurements to mark the curves directly onto your fabric. You can choose the length that works for you and adjust the waist opening for a comfortable fit.

The design is based on the linen skirt I made in my video. It features a wide waistband, an optional set of belt loops, and a zipper at the back.

Inside the guide

• Illustrated steps for measuring, marking, cutting, and sewing your skirt
• An explanation of how fabric width and length affect the skirt you can make
• Two approaches to fitting the waist: calculating a starting radius or gradually adjusting the opening
• A worked example to help you plan your own measurements
• Instructions for the waistband, belt loops, zipper, back seam, and hem

The guide is best suited to someone with basic sewing experience who is comfortable sewing seams and using a sewing machine. You’ll need fabric, a zipper, thread, and basic sewing tools.

What you’ll receive

A 26-page digital PDF guide to read on your device or print at home. No paper pattern pieces are needed.