Let’s make a DIY Poodle skirt today! All you need is a few basic sewing skills. Do you have a love for all things retro and vintage? If so, then learning how to make a poodle skirt is a must! These are a classic piece of 1950s fashion that continues to be popular today. Whether you're dressing up for a themed party or just want to add some flair to your wardrobe, making your own is a fun and creative project.

Since my second daughter was born, I knew I wanted to make poodle skirts for the sisters! My girls are 6 + 9 years old now, so I’m running out of time! When Decades Day came up at school, I knew this was my reason to make it happen! Poodle skirts are so classic, fun and very quick to sew! In fact, there is barely any sewing involved!  In this blog post, we'll guide you step-by-step through the process, from choosing the right fabric to adding the iconic poodle appliqué. So put on your sewing cap and get ready to rock that retro style!

Easy DIY Poodle Skirt | How to Make a Poodle Skirt

Poodle Skirt Felt and Materials

To start the , you will need:

• 1.5″ – 2″ width elastic
• 1-1.5 yards of felt (by the yard), depending on how long you want your skirt
• Ric rac or other trim for the poodle leash
• Black felt to cut poodle out and embellishments for the collar

Measure & Cut the Skirt Fabric

Step 1: To start, measure your child at the waist. I would cut your elastic to this length and then overlap it an inch or two to sew, so the elastic is tight on your child’s waist. This much felt in the skirt can be heavy, pulling the skirt down so I like the waist to be nice and taut!

Step 2: Then, measure from the waistband down to your child’s knee, or whatever is your desired length. Now it’s time for some math.

For a full 360 degree circle skirt you will take the circumference of your child’s waist minus 2. Then divide that by 6.28 (which is 2 Pi, if you wanted to know!) So for my daughter with a waist of 26″, I calculated 24/6.28 = 3.82.

Step 3: Fold your felt in half, then in half the other way so you have fabric 4 layers thick. Then, measure and mark off your radius for easy cutting! Now, determine the length you want and cut a clean line at this time as well. It is easiest for me to do all the cutting at once!

Sewing the Skirt

Step 4: Now attach the waistband. Pin the elastic around so it is evenly distributed, and then sew it into place. You can use a zigzag stitch or stretch stitch here, just be sure to use a stitch that will stretch as the child puts the skirt on! Before I sewed the waistband on, I just tucked one end of the ric-rac up under the elastic so it would be securely in place.

Skirt Step 5: Now you can pin down and sew down your ric rac leash! I like to do a few loops and twirls, ric rac is forgiving and will move with you as you sew!

Poodle Time!

Step 6: I printed out a clip art for the poodle shape and traced it onto my black felt. You can be as simple or intricate as you want! You can embellish the collar or add pom poms to the feet or do whatever you like to fancy it up. I ended using hot glue to put mine on, but you could sew these into place as well or use tacky glue.

Step 7: And just like that, you’re done! Classic, simple poodle skirt ready to twirl!

As you can see, I used some scrap felt to make coordinating neck scarves too! It’s just a long strip of felt, cut to points at the ends. This is a fun and free way to add a perfect coordinate and finish the outfit!

Can I make a poodle skirt without a sewing machine?

Yes, you can make a poodle skirt without a sewing machine. Instead of sewing, you can use fabric glue or hand-stitching techniques to assemble the skirt. With some creativity and patience, you can achieve a beautiful poodle skirt without the need for a sewing machine.

To sum it up, making a poodle skirt is a fun and creative DIY project that allows you to add a touch of retro style to your wardrobe. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can create a unique and stylish one that is perfect for costume parties, 50s-themed events, or just for expressing your personal fashion sense. Whether you're an experienced seamstress or new to sewing, making this is a relatively simple and enjoyable project that anyone can tackle. So gather your materials, unleash your creativity, and get ready to rock the vintage look.

Before you leave, be sure to join us in the Peek-a-Boo Pattern Shop Facebook Group to share what you make and ask sewing-related questions. You can also follow us on Instagram. Happy Sewing!