Learn how to measure, plan, and sew custom bed skirts. Explore tailored and other styles, fabrication tips, and a yardage formula that works for you.

Introduction:

If you've ever wondered how to create a polished, designer look for a bed, the answer often lies at the bottom—literally. Bed skirts are the finishing touch that hides the box spring and adds a personal touch to any bedroom. In this post, I'll walk you through the basics of bed skirt styles, fabrication techniques, and how to measure and calculate fabric yardage—plus share an in-depth video course on how to sew a tailored bed skirt with confidence.

Popular Styles of Bed Skirts:

1. Tailored Bed Skirt
   • Clean, pleated, or flat panel look
   • Great for modern or traditional decor
   • Requires accurate measurements and pressing of the pleats
2. Gathered Bed Skirt
   • Soft, ruffled look
   • Adds volume and texture
   • Ideal for romantic or cottage-style rooms
3. Box Pleated Bed Skirt
   • Structured, geometric design
   • Formal and elegant
   • More fabric-intensive, but high-end visually

Fabrication Methods:

• Decking-Style Bed Skirts: The skirt is sewn to a whole fabric "deck" that sits between the mattress and box spring.
  • Pros:

    • Secure Fit: Stays firmly in place under the mattress—no shifting or slipping.

    • Polished Look: Offers a seamless, professional appearance.

    • Standard Option: Most commonly accepted in retail and custom designs.

    • Stability: Great for pleated or tailored skirts that need structured support.

  • Cons:

    • Difficult to Remove/Clean: You must remove the mattress to clean it or make changes.

    • Installation Hassle: Requires lifting a heavy mattress, which can be inconvenient for one person.

    • Not Adjustable: Once it's sewn and placed, it can't easily be repositioned or modified.

• Velcro/Hook & Loop Bed Skirts: The panels attach directly to the bed frame or platform using hook-and-loop fasteners.

  • Pros:

    • Easy to Remove & Clean: Panels detach easily—no mattress lifting required.

    • Adjustable Drop: Skirt position can be fine-tuned for different floor clearances.

    • Custom Fit Flexibility: Ideal for situations where the bed frame is irregular or you need quick swaps.

    • Great for DIY: Especially popular with home sewists who want a simple install method.

     Cons:

    • Can Shift Over Time: If the Velcro isn't applied securely or the adhesive fails, the skirt may sag.

    • May Require Refastening: Especially if the bed is moved or the fabric is heavy.

    • Less Traditional: May be perceived as less high-end in some custom workrooms or with high-end clients unless executed perfectly.

Ready to Sew a Tailored Bed Skirt?

Inside the Designs by Donna Membership, you'll find my exclusive Tailored Bed Skirt Video Course, which walks you through every step of the process:

• Measuring
• Cutting
• Seam Placement
• Hemming
• Corner Tips
• Pro pressing tips

This course is also available as a standalone video class if you're not yet ready to join the full membership.

Want to Master More than Bed Skirts?

Join our community inside the Designs by Donna Membership, where you'll learn not only tailored bed skirts but also pillow design, zipper techniques, professional embellishments, and more – all in a supportive, healthy, creative space.

Click to visit my YouTube channel where I share practical tips, creative pillow and bedding projects, and behind-the-scenes lessons to help you grow your skills and confidence—one stitch at a time. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a new video!

Remember, learning the basics provides a solid foundation to grow with confidence. As I always say—practice and perseverance go a long way! And don't worry about being perfect (spoiler: it doesn't exist). Knowing when "close enough" is more than good enough? That's the real magic.

Happy Sewing!