How To Stitch Petticoat For Saree?

In this article, you will discover step-by-step instructions on how to skillfully stitch a petticoat for a saree. A petticoat serves as a necessary foundation for the graceful drape of a saree, ensuring its elegance and allure. By following these expert guidelines, you will be equipped with the knowledge and technique to fashion a perfectly fitted petticoat that enhances the overall beauty of your saree ensemble. So, let us embark upon this journey of creating a flawless petticoat that lays the groundwork for a stunning saree presentation.

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Selecting the Fabric

Choosing the right fabric

When it comes to stitching a petticoat for a saree, one of the most important steps is selecting the right fabric. The fabric you choose will determine the comfort and longevity of your petticoat. It is advisable to opt for a fabric that is lightweight, breathable, and has a good drape. Cotton, silk, or satin are popular choices for petticoats as they provide comfort and allow easy movement. Consider the climate and occasion for which the petticoat will be worn to make an informed decision about the fabric.

Measuring the fabric

After you have chosen the fabric, the next step is to measure the required length and width of the fabric for your petticoat. Start by measuring the length from your waist to the desired length of the petticoat, keeping in mind the height of the heels you plan to wear with the saree. Measure the width by taking the hip measurement and adding some extra inches for ease and fitting. It is crucial to ensure accurate measurements to achieve a well-fitted and comfortable petticoat.

Taking Accurate Measurements

Waist measurement

To stitch a petticoat that fits perfectly around your waist, it is essential to take accurate waist measurements. Use a measuring tape and wrap it around your natural waistline, which is usually located slightly above your belly button. Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight. Note down the measurement to refer to it later while cutting the fabric and preparing the waistband.

Hip measurement

The hip measurement is equally important as it determines the fitting and comfort of the petticoat around your hips. Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your hips, ensuring it is parallel to the floor. Take note of this measurement; it will be used to calculate the width of the fabric required for your petticoat.

Length measurement

The length of the petticoat can vary depending on personal preference and the type of saree you plan to wear. Measure the length by standing straight and taking the tape from your natural waistline down to the desired length, considering the footwear you intend to wear. If you want a floor-length petticoat, measure all the way down to the floor. Having an accurate length measurement will help you achieve the desired look and fit for your saree.

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Marking and Cutting the Fabric

Preparing the fabric

Before cutting the fabric, prepare it by washing and ironing it to remove any wrinkles or creases. This step ensures that you have a smooth and even surface to work with while marking and cutting.

Marking the measurements

Using a fabric marker or tailor’s chalk, mark the measurements you took earlier on the fabric. Start by marking the waistline according to the waist measurement, ensuring the marking is straight and even. Then, mark the hip measurement on both sides of the fabric, accounting for ease and fitting. Finally, mark the length measurement from the waistline down to the desired length. Use a ruler or measuring tape to ensure accuracy in marking the measurements.

Cutting the fabric

Once the measurements are marked, it’s time to cut the fabric. Use sharp fabric scissors and follow the marked lines to cut along the waist, hip, and length measurements. Take your time and cut carefully to ensure clean edges and a neat finish. Remember to leave some additional fabric for seam allowances, which will be needed when sewing the various parts of the petticoat together.

Sewing the Waistband

Preparing the waistband

To create a waistband for your petticoat, you will need a strip of fabric that matches the width of the waist measurement. Fold the fabric strip in half lengthwise, with the right sides facing each other. Press the fold with an iron to create a crease. Then, stitch along the raw edge of the fabric, creating a tube. Flip the tube inside out, pushing the seam allowance towards the inside, and press it again to ensure a clean finish.

Attaching the waistband

Once the waistband is prepared, it’s time to attach it to the petticoat. Align the raw edge of the waistband with the top edge of the petticoat fabric, ensuring the right sides are facing each other. Pin them together to secure them in place. Then, stitch along the top edge, joining the waistband and the fabric. Trim any excess fabric and iron the seam allowance towards the waistband. Finally, fold the waistband over the seam allowance and stitch it down, creating a neat and finished edge.

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Creating the Flare

Calculating flare fabric requirements

The flare of a petticoat is the fabric that creates the fullness and volume when worn under a saree. To calculate the fabric requirement for the flare, measure the desired circumference of the flare at its widest part. Multiply this measurement by two to account for the front and back panels of the flare. Add a few inches for seam allowances and gathering, ensuring enough fabric to create the desired fullness.

Cutting and joining the flare panels

Once you have determined the required amount of fabric for the flare, cut it into panels according to the measurements. Fold the fabric panels in half, ensuring the right sides are facing each other. Stitch the raw edges together, creating a tube-like structure. Press the seam allowances open to achieve a flat finish. Repeat these steps if you need multiple flare panels. Once the panels are ready, you can join them together by stitching their raw edges, ensuring a smooth and continuous flare for your petticoat.

Adding the Ruffle or Lace

Selecting the ruffle or lace

Adding a ruffle or lace to the bottom of your petticoat can enhance its appearance and add a touch of elegance. Choose a ruffle or lace that complements your saree and personal style. You can opt for a simple and delicate lace trim or a bold and decorative ruffle, depending on the overall look you want to achieve. Consider the color, width, and design of the ruffle or lace to ensure it enhances the beauty of your petticoat and saree combination.

Attaching the ruffle or lace

To attach the ruffle or lace to the petticoat, first, measure the desired length of the ruffle or lace trim. Cut it to the measured length, allowing some additional fabric for overlapping and securing. Pin the ruffle or lace along the bottom edge of the petticoat, ensuring the right sides are facing each other. Stitch along the pinned edge, attaching the ruffle or lace securely to the petticoat. Trim any excess fabric and finish the raw edge with a zigzag stitch or a serger for a clean and professional look.

Stitching the Flare to the Waistband

Aligning the flare fabric with waistband

To stitch the flare fabric to the waistband, start by aligning the raw edge of the flare fabric with the raw edge of the waistband. The right sides of both fabrics should be facing each other. Pin them together, ensuring they are evenly distributed around the waistband. This step will help in achieving an even and balanced flare throughout the petticoat.

Attaching the flare to the waistband

Once the flare fabric is pinned to the waistband, stitch along the pinned edge, joining the two layers securely. Use a regular straight stitch or a zigzag stitch, depending on the fabric and your personal preference. Take your time while stitching to ensure accuracy and consistent gathering. After stitching, trim any excess fabric and finish the raw edge with a serger or a zigzag stitch to prevent fraying.

Finishing the Hem

Preparing the hem

To create a clean and finished hem for your petticoat, fold the bottom edge of the fabric towards the inside, creating a narrow hemline. Pin the folded hem in place to secure it before stitching. Press the hem with an iron to create a crisp fold and ensure a professional finish.

Stitching the hem

After the hem is pinned and pressed, stitch along the folded edge to secure it. Use a straight stitch or a blind hem stitch, depending on your preference and the fabric.

Adding the Drawstring

Creating the drawstring pocket

A drawstring adds functionality to the petticoat, allowing you to adjust the waistband as needed. To create a drawstring pocket, fold and press a narrow strip of fabric along the top edge of the waistband on the inside of the petticoat. Stitch close to the edge, creating a tube-like pocket.

Inserting the drawstring

Once the drawstring pocket is ready, insert a drawstring through it. You can use a matching fabric strip or a cord as a drawstring. Attach a safety pin to one end of the drawstring and thread it through the pocket, making sure it goes all the way around the waistband. Adjust the drawstring to your desired tightness and tie a knot at the ends to secure it. The drawstring will allow you to comfortably adjust the waistband of the petticoat to fit your waist perfectly.

Final Touches and Fittings

Trimming excess threads

After completing the main stitching and construction of the petticoat, take a moment to inspect it for any loose threads or stray fibers. Carefully trim these excess threads using a small pair of scissors. This step will give your petticoat a clean and polished appearance.

Trying on the petticoat

Once you have finished stitching and adding all the components to the petticoat, it is time to try it on for fitting. Put on the petticoat and adjust the waistband using the drawstring. Check the length, flare, and overall fit to ensure they meet your expectations. Make any necessary adjustments to achieve the desired fit and comfort.

By following these steps and paying attention to detail, you can stitch a beautiful and well-fitted petticoat for your saree. Remember to select the right fabric, take accurate measurements, mark and cut the fabric precisely, sew the waistband securely, create the flare, and add the desired ruffle or lace trim. Stitch the flare to the waistband, finish the hem professionally, and add a drawstring for adjustability. Finally, trim any excess threads and try on the petticoat for a perfect fit. Enjoy wearing your sarees with confidence and comfort.