How to Make a Chic Christmas Tree Skirt

by DoItYourself Staff

what you'll need

Sewing machine (or craft glue)
Needle and thread for hand-sewing
Scissors
Pins
Square of fabric the size you want
Trims (braid, fringe, sequins, beads, appliqus, etc.)

It is very easy to make a lovely Christmas tree skirt, even if you have very little money. The following article will outline the steps needed to make a Christmas tree skirt.

Step 1 - Cut the Fabric

You may find fabric in widths of 36, 45 and 54 inches. As a guideline, a 36 inch piece of fabric will make a skirt that reaches about 16 inches from the tree, a 45 inch piece will reach about 20 inches from the tree, and a 54 inch piece will reach about 25 inches. If you wish to have a reversible or lined skirt, get an equally-sized piece of coordinating or lining fabric. If you are on a budget, look for an old tablecloth around the house or at a thrift store. Cut a large circle of fabric. To do this easily:

Fold your fabric into quarters.
From the center (where the fold lines intersect) fold it into eighths or even sixteenths. Your fabric should look like a long thin triangle. Pin it in place.
Measure from the center the width you want the skirt to be and mark it on the edge of each fold and once or twice more.
Connect your markings and cut along this line. This should produce a nice even arc.
Keep the fabric folded and repeat about 2 inches from the point. When unfolded, you should have a good circle with a 4" hole in the center.
If you wish to have a lined or reversible skirt, repeat this procedure with another piece of fabric.
Cut along the straight grain of the fabric from the outside of the circle to the center.

Step 2 - Hem or Stitch the Skirt

If you are making a single-layer skirt, turn the raw edges under and hem them all around. If you have no sewing skills, use craft glue to turn the hem.
If you are making a reversible or lined skirt, put the two pieces together, wrong sides out, and, starting on the straight cut, sew a seam all around the edge of the skirt and the center opening. When you come back to the edge you started, leave about 4 inches unsewn so you can turn the skirt right side out. Carefully trim each corner seam allowance at an angle so it doesn't bunch up, then reach inside the 4 inch gap and turn the skirt right side out. Press the sewn edges, then hand-sew the 4 inch gap closed.
If your skill level is good, you can play with variations on the hem, such as scallops or points.