Cut-outs are a great way to add a one-of-a-kind feature to a garment and create interesting shapes! There are many fun patterns that you can explore this technique; the pattern I’m using for this tutorial is my 10K Midi Skirt, which has a keyhole cut out on the front of the skirt!
You can embellish further by adding piping to the cut-out!
Things you will need:
Main fabric | lining | Iron-on interfacing | Scissors | Pins
Steps to create this keyhole cut-out detail:
- Cut out the pattern on the main fabric and do the same for the lining fabric.
2. Trace the keyhole cut out onto paper and use it to cut the interfacing. Iron on the interfacing and press until it adhers to the main fabric.
3. Cut two strips of ribbon, each 38cm (15in) in length. Place each ribbon on the front skirt at the bottom of the keyhole.
4. Pin the ribbon in place on each side and baste stitch along the edge to secure.
5. The ribbon will be sandwiched in between the main fabric and the lining fabric. Place the main fabric and lining fabric right sides together. Match the keyhole cut-outs, and pin both fabrics together along the keyhole.
6. Sew using a 1.2cm (½in) seam allowance. Go slowly around the curve and gently guide the fabric around. To turn around the curve, stop with the needle in the fabric, lift the presser foot, pivot the fabric and start sewing again. Repeat this as many times as needed, to achieve a smooth curve.
7. Cut triangle shaped notches into the keyhole curve to remove excess fabric and allow the seam to lay flat when pressed. Be careful to not cut past the stitch line.
8. Understitching will prevent the lining from peeking through to the outside of the garment. There will be no visible stitch lines on the right side of the garment so it creates a clean finish.
9. Press the seam allowance towards the lining and understitch by sewing a line of stitching parallel to the seam line stitching through the lining and seam allowance. Understitch as close as possible to the corners of the keyhole. Go slowly around the curve. Press the lining to the wrong side of the front.
- Tie your ribbon into a lovely bow and your ready to finish constructing your garment.
