How to make a bed skirt

Introduction

Creating a custom bed skirt allows you to infuse your personal style into your bedroom decor while ensuring a perfect fit for your bed. With a bit of sewing know-how and some creativity, you can craft a bed skirt that complements your existing bedding and enhances the overall aesthetic of your space. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make a bed skirt tailored to your specifications.

Gather Materials and Tools

Before diving in, ensure you have the following items:

• Fabric of your choice (measure your bed to determine the required yardage; typically, you’ll need about 2-3 times the perimeter of your bed in fabric length plus extra for hems and overlaps)
• Thread that matches your fabric
• Sewing machine
• Scissors or rotary cutter and cutting mat
• Measuring tape
• Straight pins
• Iron and ironing board
• Fabric pencil or chalk

Measure and Plan

Measure the length from the top of the box spring to the floor for the drop length of the bed skirt. Also, measure the width and length of the bed. Add a few inches to the width and length for hem allowances and to accommodate the sides and foot of the bed.

Choose Your Fabric

Select a fabric that complements your bedroom’s style and color scheme. Cotton, linen, or a polyester blend are common choices due to their durability and ease of care. For a luxurious touch, consider silk or velvet, but be prepared for more delicate handling.

Cutting the Fabric

Cut three panels of fabric: two for the sides and one for the foot of the bed. The side panels should match the length of the bed plus twice the drop length for the hem and the overlap. The foot panel should be the width of the bed plus twice the drop length.

Hemming

Fold the raw edges of each panel twice, about 1/2 inch each time, and press with an iron. Pin in place and sew a straight stitch to create a clean hem.

Creating the Top Portion (Deck)

For a fitted look, create a fabric deck that will sit over the box spring. Measure and cut a piece of fabric to match the dimensions of the top of the box spring. Hem the edges and add Velcro strips or ties to secure it in place.

Attaching the Panels

Lay out the deck fabric face up. Place the side panels right side down on top of the deck, aligning the top edges. Pin in place along the top edge, ensuring the hems are even. Sew across this pinned edge to attach the panels to the deck. Repeat with the foot panel.

 Finishing Touches

If you prefer pleats or gathers, now is the time to create them. Evenly distribute the fabric along the top edge and pin in place before sewing for a gathered look. For pleats, mark and fold the fabric accordingly before securing with pins and sewing.

 Installing the Bed Skirt

With your custom bed skirt complete, installation depends on your design. If you’ve used Velcro, attach the corresponding strips to the box spring and secure the skirt in place. If you’ve added ties, simply tie them around the corners of the box spring.

Customizations and Variations

• Ruffled Bed Skirt: For a romantic touch, create a ruffled bed skirt by gathering the fabric more densely before attaching to the deck.
• Pattern Mixing: Don’t be afraid to mix and match fabrics or patterns for a unique and personalized look.
• Invisible Stitching: For a seamless look, consider hand-stitching the panels to the deck fabric from the underside.

Maintenance and Care

Be mindful of the fabric’s care instructions when washing your custom bed skirt. Most can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with cold water, but always check the fabric label.

Choosing Fabric Wisely: Texture & Print Considerations

• Texture: Fabrics with interesting textures, such as linen or velvet, can add depth and luxury to your bedroom. Consider the mood you want to create – smooth fabrics for a modern look or textured ones for a cozy, rustic feel.
• Prints & Patterns: Large prints can be overwhelming on a bed skirt, especially in smaller rooms. If you love patterns, consider a smaller scale print or a tone-on-tone design that complements your bedding without competing for attention.

Adding a Lining

• For added weight and structure, consider lining your bed skirt. A cotton or muslin lining can also help prevent light from shining through the fabric, which can be beneficial if you store items under your bed. Attach the lining to the wrong side of the outer fabric before assembling the skirt.

Incorporating a Kick Pleat

• A kick pleat at the foot of the bed not only looks elegant but also provides easier access to under-bed storage. To create a kick pleat, fold the fabric at the center of the foot panel to form a triangle and sew a seam along the folded edges, leaving the top open.

No-Sew Alternatives

• If you don’t sew, there are still options for you! Use fabric glue or fusible bonding tape to attach the hems and panels together. Alternatively, purchase a flat sheet in your desired fabric and size, and use it as a wrap-around bed skirt, securing it with clips or pins.

Customizing for Unique Bed Frames

• For beds with footboards or unconventional shapes, measure carefully and adapt your pattern. You may need to create separate pieces for each section of the bed, ensuring they overlap seamlessly.

Innovative Attachment Methods

• Instead of traditional pins or ties, consider using snap buttons, magnetic tape, or even industrial-strength Velcro for a more secure and easily removable attachment method. This is especially useful for beds that require frequent sheet changes.

Embellishments and Trims

• Personalize your bed skirt with lace trims, ribbon borders, or even embroidered details. These small additions can elevate your DIY project and add a touch of personality to your bedroom.

Testing Your Design

• Before committing to sewing the entire bed skirt, test your design on a small scrap of fabric. This allows you to experiment with gathers, pleats, or any unique features you plan to incorporate, ensuring satisfaction with the final result.

Storage Solutions Integration

• If you’re handy with DIY projects, consider integrating hidden pockets or compartments into your bed skirt for additional storage. This could be particularly useful for storing books, remote controls, or even slippers.

Finishing Touches

• Lastly, don’t forget the finishing touches. Press your bed skirt thoroughly with an iron to remove any wrinkles, giving it a professional and polished look. You might also consider spraying it with a fabric refresher to give it a pleasant scent before dressing your bed.

Conclusion

Crafting a custom bed skirt not only saves money compared to buying a ready-made one but also adds a touch of personal flair to your bedroom. With patience, attention to detail, and a bit of sewing prowess, you can create a bed skirt that perfectly complements your space and truly makes your bed the centerpiece of the room.