Safety Notice: Handmade items made from this pattern may contain small parts or long cords that pose choking or strangulation risks. Not suitable for children under 3 years. Please see the full safety disclaimer at sewmag.co.uk/safety.
Wrapover garments get a bit of a bad *ahem* rap for being at high risk of wardrobe mishaps, but the wide overlap and weightier fabric of Julia Claridge’s made-to-measure version makes it a much safer choice all round. Corduroy frays, so you’ll need to neaten all raw edges that will be exposed in the finished garment. The simple measurements and markings can be made directly onto fabric or drafted onto pattern paper if you prefer.
1 Cut out all pieces according to the cutting guide. Lay the front pieces right sides together, then measure 20cm down along one edge and mark for the hip point. From the same corner, measure and mark meas B along the top, then draw a curved line from here to the hip point. Cut along this line to shape the waist.
2 Fold the back panel in half lengthways, then repeat Step 1 on the non-folded edges. On the back panel only, measure and mark 10cm along the top from the first meas B, then twice meas B for the dart. Measure 14cm down from the centre of this last section, then draw diagonal lines to the edges of it. Check you are happy with the dart position, adjust if necessary, then stitch the darts.
3 Pair up a lining and a corduroy pocket, right sides together, then measure 8cm down one long edge and mark. Draw a straight line to the opposite top corner and cut across. Stitch all around, leaving a 4cm gap on the bottom edge. Trim the bulk from the seam allowance, then turn right sides out through the gap and press. Repeat to make the second pocket so that it mirrors the first.
4 Match the front and back panels at the side seams, right sides together, and pin. Sew the side seams, leaving a 5cm gap at the top of the left-hand side seam. Lay the skirt right sides up, pin each pocket in place 12cm from the upper edge and centrally over the side seams, then topstitch.
5 Fold in and press 1cm, then a further 3cm, along the bottom and two front edges, creating mitred corners on the inside. Stitch 2.5cm in along all three edges, turning at each corner with the needle down. Fold and press 1cm over to the wrong side along each long edge of the waistband.