When it comes to sewing the lining for The Universal Skirt, we’ve made things a little easier with the help of our pleat guides.

Pattern pieces H and I (the lining pieces) include pleats that vary slightly depending on the size being made. Because the sizes are nested together on the pattern sheet, it can be tricky to identify exactly where to fold and stitch for the correct size. That’s where the pleat guides come in.

These templates that are provided on the pattern sheet clearly show the pleat placement for each size range, helping to take the guesswork out of preparing the lining. Whether all sizes are visible or you’ve printed just your own layer, the pleat guides offer a clear, accurate reference to follow.

Using the Pleat Guides – Step by Step:

(1) Locate the lining pattern pieces H and I.

(2) Find the pleat guide for the size being made. The guides are split into size categories to make them easier to navigate.

Cut out the pleat guide for your size.

(3) Lay the guide on top of the corresponding lining pattern piece, matching the centre front (CF) or centre back (CB) and side seam. Check that the upper edge also lines up by placing the guide over the nested pleats underneath.

(4) Once everything is aligned, secure the pleat guide in place using glue stick or cellotape. Use it as a cutting guide for the pleats.

This simple tool ensures greater accuracy and ease as you construct the skirt lining – so you can spend less time puzzling over pattern lines and more time sewing something beautiful.