Circle Skirt Calculator
Draft a full circle skirt by converting waist measurements into the correct radius, determining the cut diameter, and estimating fabric yardage for 45" and 60" fabric widths.
Cut Radius
5.27 in
Waist circumference 30.0 in
Full Diameter
63.55 in
Add seam allowances before cutting
Fabric Yardage
45" wide: 3.53 yd
60" wide: 3.53 yd
How to Use This Calculator
Measure waist and decide ease
Use your natural waist or drop waist measurement. Add ease if you want a relaxed fit.
Enter skirt length
Measure from waist to desired hem. Add allowances for the hem and waistband seam.
Review radius and fabric needs
Use the radius to mark the waist cut on the fabric. Check yardage against the fabric width you plan to buy.
Formula
Radius = (Waist + 2 × Ease) ÷ (2π) + Seam Allowance
Diameter = Radius × 2 + (Skirt Length + Seam Allowance) × 2
Fabric yardage: Yards = ceil(Diameter ÷ Fabric Width) × Diameter ÷ 36
Example: Waist 28", ease 1", length 26", seam 0.5" → Radius ≈ 6.0" → Diameter ≈ 65" → 45" width requires 2 panels (2 × 65" = 130") ≈ 3.61 yd.
About the Circle Skirt Calculator
Circle skirts create beautiful drape but require precise marking and plenty of fabric. This calculator simplifies the math so you can draft patterns quickly and accurately.
When to Use This Calculator
- DIY sewing projects: Draft full circle, half circle, or maxi skirts.
- Costume design: Determine fabric yardage for dancewear or cosplay.
- Pattern adjustments: Add ease or change hem length without redoing math.
- Teaching sewing classes: Demonstrate the geometry behind circle skirts.
Why Use Our Calculator?
- ✅ Fast radius calculation: No need to reach for a calculator every time.
- ✅ Fabric planning: Estimates yardage for common fabric widths.
- ✅ Seam & ease options: Account for hem allowances and waistbands.
- ✅ Mobile friendly: Plan fabric purchases right in the store.
Common Applications
Wedding dresses: Calculate volume for romantic full skirts.
Figure skating costumes: Ensure proper length with stretch fabrics.
Vintage fashion: Replicate 1950s-style circle skirts accurately.
Tips for Best Results
- Account for fabric shrinkage—wash before cutting.
- If your diameter exceeds fabric width, plan to splice panels symmetrically.
- Use bias tape or horsehair braid to support hems on longer skirts.
- Mark 90° increments from the waist center to keep the circle true.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this for half or quarter circle skirts?
Yes—calculate the radius the same way. Fabric yardage will be approximately half or a quarter of the full circle requirement.
What if my fabric isn’t wide enough?
Piece together two or more panels. The calculator already accounts for this by dividing diameter by fabric width.
Should I add seam allowances to the radius?
Yes. The calculator adds your specified seam allowance to both the waist radius and hem length to ensure accurate cutting.
How do I handle elastic waistbands?
Use your desired finished waist size (without ease) and subtract seam allowances for elastic casings instead of adding them.