Lengthen - Shorten Step 3
Blogpost | Tutorials

How to Lengthen or Shorten the Jade Skirt

The Jade comes in two versions, mini and midi. You can find the final garment measurements in the instructions and on the Jade Product page. I like the mini a lot, but it’s a bit on the short side for me because I’m 5’10”, and the pattern is drafted for a body length of 5’7″. When I make the mini, I like to add a half inch to an inch (1-2,5 cm). Due to the way the front pattern piece is folded, lengthening or shortening this pattern piece is not as straightforward as just shifting slashing and spreading along the middle, or even at the bottom. So, in this post I’ll show you how to add or subtract length to the Jade front piece.

Step 1: Trace size

Lengthen - Shorten Step 1

Trace or cut the size you need. If you’re between sizes, follow this tutorial on how to adjust the front piece of the skirt first.

Step 2: Add to left side

Lengthen - Shorten Step 2

Add the amount you want to add to the bottom fold on the left. Just extend the left side seam and draw a line from there to the right side. Only add length on the left. I’d add up to one inch, otherwise the folds may get a bit out of proportion. If you want it a lot longer go for View B, the midi length.

Step 3: Add to the right

Lengthen - Shorten Step 3

Cut along the bottom of the last fold on the right. That’s the first big triangle on the right from the bottom, with notches 2 and 3 inside it. Spread it out, measuring the same amount as you added on the left. Shift some paper underneath and tape the fold at the right position. The folding line will still be the bottom line, it doesn’t shift up.

Step 4: Cut out

Lengthen - Shorten Step 4

Connect the side seams at the places you spread out and cut out the new side seam. That’s it! Shortening works the same, but instead of spreading it out you overlap the pieces. Don’t forget to transfer these measurements to the front lining, the back and back lining. These you can just lengthen or shorten by cutting and spreading or overlapping the lengthen/shorten line drafted on the pattern.

Any questions, leave a comment!

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6 Comments

  1. Wow Lisa, these tutorials are so helpful. Im holding out on the Jade for spring sewing, but I’m so encouraged that you’re covering all the bases with your patterns.

  2. I am 5’11” and my favourite skirt length is somewhere in the middle of the mini and the midi. Is it possible to add a little more length by repeating the above process with another pleat?

    1. Hi Gail, yes it is, just do the same with another pleat. Just remember to add the amount on both sides.

  3. Hi Lisa – thanks, this is very helpful! I extended three of the pleats of the mini by 1 inch each to lengthen the mini from 15 inches to 18 inches. How should I establish the new grainline for the front?

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