How to make a skirt smaller

This works best on an elastic skirt. I have nominal sewing skills, but love clothes and get sad when I see something that doesn't fit. This gets me by.

That said, if you are really good at sewing, this will help you not at all. Go look at a soufflé guide, or something :)

Here is my too big skirt with my psycho cat on it. No sewing for him until he can properly thread a needle. Please excuse the grubby floor.

Rip out side seems with Mr Seam ripper. This can be a little tedious.

Rip out the waistband, too. Make sure to take out the elastic to save for later. More tedium, but will be worth it.

Skirt that fits

Fold in half, making sure everything matches up exactly.

Fold big skirt in half, again making sure everything matches up.

Lay the skirt that fits on top of skirt.

Line up the folded parts together.

Cut between 1/4" to 1" away from the edge if the correct skirt. This is your seam allowance. It's a good idea to mark w tailors chalk or pins. I do this enough that I just eyeball and cut.

Personally, I like a bigger seam allowance in case I mess up, but you may not have enough fabric on the skirt, or may like less bulk. Totally up to you.

Sew up both sides of the skirt. Again, pinning makes it easier for the fabric not to slide. But I was lazy :p

Remember the casing we took apart?

Fold top over.

Stitch back in place.

Fold over again, and stitch the edge.

Another gratuitous cat picture. Allistair likes to help. But back to my guide...

Put a safety pin at the top of your elastic. This will give you something to grip as you wiggle it through.

Insert into casing. Wiggle through till you have threaded it through, and both ends meet up. Sew elastic and casing shut.

As with all seeing stuff, it's a good idea to try on as you go. Hope this helps! Good luck :)