In this session, I shared detailed demonstrations for creating beautiful tulip-shaped side skirts with both straight and bias grain fabrics.

I showed how strategic pleating can transform a simple rectangular piece of fabric into a three-dimensional sculptural element that can dramatically change a garment’s silhouette.

Demonstration Steps:

1. Cut a square fabric piece (approximately 28″ x 28″ for size 6-8)
2. Create a 5-6″ fold on one edge and stitch it closed to form the first pleat
3. Position the fold at the side seam and pin in place at hip level
4. Form additional pleats in both front and back directions to create the tulip shape
5. Adjust the height and depth of pleats to control fullness and shape
6. Pin in place and test the drape before cutting away excess fabric
7. Mark all pleats for future reference during sewing and pattern creation

Questions & Answers:

• Q: What fabrics work best for the final dress?
• A: For beginners, choose medium-weight cotton fabrics like poplin, lightweight denim, or cotton/rayon blends. These are easier to handle than silks or chiffons, which can be very challenging.

• Q: How do you add ease to a closely-fitted dress?
• A: Remember that dress forms are rigid while our bodies are soft. When making fitted garments, you need minimal ease – about 1″ total distributed between the side seams. For more comfort, add slightly more ease at the underarm, gradually tapering to less at the waist.

• Q: When should I use bias grain versus straight grain?
• A: This is a matter of design preference. Bias drapes and hugs the body more fluidly but is harder to sew and alter. Straight grain gives more structure and is easier to work with.

• Q: How do I know if I need back darts?
• A: If there’s minimal difference between your upper back and waist measurements, you may not need back darts. If you need additional ease for movement, add about 1-1.5cm at the center back and side seams.

This type of creative draping is about experimentation and artistic expression – viewing your fabric as clay to be sculpted rather than just following rigid rules.

I encourage you to continue touching and exploring different fabrics to develop your intuitive understanding of how they behave on the body.