1. Introduction
This instruction manual provides comprehensive guidance for constructing Misses' Fitted Skirts using New Look Sewing Pattern 6084. This pattern offers multiple hem options, allowing for customization. Follow these steps carefully to achieve a well-constructed garment.
Image 1: New Look Sewing Pattern 6084 envelope. This image displays the various fitted skirt styles and hem options that can be created with this pattern, along with sizing information.
2. Materials Required
Before beginning, ensure you have all necessary materials as specified on the pattern envelope. General requirements include:
- Fabric: Refer to the pattern's fabric requirements chart for yardage based on your chosen size and skirt view. Recommended fabrics typically include cotton, linen, gabardine, denim, or wool blends.
- Thread: All-purpose polyester thread matching your fabric color.
- Zipper: A standard dress zipper of the specified length (usually 7-9 inches).
- Interfacing: Fusible interfacing for the waistband, as indicated on the pattern.
- Hook and Eye: One hook and eye closure for the waistband.
- Basic Sewing Supplies: Sewing machine, iron, ironing board, fabric scissors, pins, measuring tape, seam ripper, chalk or fabric marker.
3. Setup and Preparation
3.1. Pre-Washing Fabric
Pre-wash and dry your fabric according to its care instructions. This prevents shrinkage after the garment is sewn.
3.2. Pattern Piece Preparation
- Carefully cut out the pattern pieces for your chosen skirt view and size.
- Smooth out any wrinkles in the pattern pieces using a dry iron on a low setting, if necessary.
- Identify all markings on the pattern pieces, such as grainlines, darts, notches, and fold lines.
3.3. Fabric Layout and Cutting
- Lay your fabric flat on a large surface, ensuring it is smooth and free of wrinkles.
- Follow the cutting layout diagram provided in the pattern instructions for your specific fabric width and skirt view. Pay close attention to grainlines.
- Pin pattern pieces securely to the fabric.
- Cut out all fabric pieces accurately. Transfer all pattern markings to the fabric using chalk, a fabric marker, or tailor's tacks.
4. Operating (Sewing Instructions)
The following steps outline the general construction process. Always refer to the specific diagrams and instructions included with your New Look 6084 pattern for detailed visual guidance.
4.1. Darts
- Fold each skirt piece along the center of the dart, right sides together, matching the dart legs.
- Stitch from the wide end of the dart to the point, tapering to nothing.
- Press darts towards the center back/front of the skirt.
4.2. Side Seams
- With right sides together, pin the front skirt piece to the back skirt pieces at the side seams, matching notches.
- Stitch the side seams, leaving the specified opening for the zipper on one side.
- Press seams open. Finish raw edges with a zigzag stitch or serger.
4.3. Zipper Insertion
- Baste the zipper opening closed.
- Press the basted seam open.
- Center the zipper face down over the pressed-open seam allowance. Pin in place.
- Using a zipper foot, stitch the zipper to the seam allowances, then remove the basting stitches.
4.4. Waistband
- Apply fusible interfacing to one side of the waistband piece.
- Attach the waistband to the upper edge of the skirt, right sides together, matching notches and raw edges. Stitch.
- Fold the waistband in half lengthwise, right sides together, and stitch the short ends. Trim corners.
- Turn the waistband right side out, press, and hand-stitch or machine-stitch the inner edge to the skirt.
- Attach a hook and eye closure to the waistband opening.
4.5. Hemming
Choose your desired hem length and finish:
- Narrow Hem: Turn up the raw edge 1/4 inch, press, turn up another 1/4 inch, press, and stitch.
- Standard Hem: Turn up the raw edge 1/4 inch, press, turn up the specified hem allowance (e.g., 1 inch), press, and stitch by hand or machine.
- Blind Hem: Use a blind hem stitch on your sewing machine or by hand for an invisible finish.
5. Maintenance and Care of Finished Garment
To ensure the longevity of your handmade skirt, follow the care instructions for the specific fabric you used. General guidelines include:
- Washing: Machine wash cold on a gentle cycle or hand wash, depending on fabric type.
- Drying: Tumble dry low or hang dry to prevent excessive shrinkage or damage.
- Ironing: Iron on a medium setting, using a pressing cloth if necessary, to smooth wrinkles.
- Storage: Store on a hanger to maintain shape.
6. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Encountering difficulties during sewing is common. Here are solutions to frequent problems:
- Uneven Stitches: Check your sewing machine's tension settings. Ensure the needle is correctly inserted and not bent.
- Fabric Puckering: Reduce stitch length, use a walking foot, or adjust presser foot pressure. Ensure fabric is not being stretched while sewing.
- Zipper Wavy: Ensure the zipper is properly basted and pressed before stitching. Use a zipper foot and stitch slowly.
- Darts Not Pointy: Stitch slowly to the very end of the dart point, then tie off threads rather than backstitching.
- Garment Too Tight/Loose: Double-check your measurements against the pattern's finished garment measurements. Consider making a muslin (test garment) for future projects.
7. Specifications
- Pattern Number: New Look 6084
- Product Type: Misses' Sewing Pattern
- Sizes Included: 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18
- Garment Type: Fitted Skirts with various hem options
- ASIN: B00IOVJKIA
8. Warranty and Support
New Look sewing patterns are designed for clarity and accuracy. If you encounter any issues or have questions regarding the pattern instructions, please refer to the contact information provided on the pattern envelope or visit the official New Look website for customer support resources. This pattern is intended for personal use and is not covered by a specific product warranty beyond its initial quality as a printed item.