Skirt Hem Calculator
Calculate new hem position and fabric for skirt length alterations.
How We Calculate This
The calculator determines whether you are shortening or lengthening, then calculates the new hem position and fabric requirements.
Shortening
Excess = Length change + Current hem - New hem depth
Lengthening
If existing hem allowance covers the change, simply re-hem. Otherwise, a facing strip is needed: Facing width = Shortfall + Hem depth + Seam allowance
Hem circumference (sweep)
A circle skirt hem is set by the waist and the length, not the hip: Hem = Waist + 2 × π × Length (the waist forms a circle of radius Waist ÷ 2π, and the hem sits one skirt-length further out). Other styles hang roughly from the hip, so their hem is approximated as a multiple of the hip measurement: Straight ≈ 1× hip, A-line ≈ 1.3× hip (about hip + 20-40 cm, per standard drafting), Pleated ≈ 1.6× hip (a typical moderate-pleat figure — knife and box pleats can reach 2-3× depending on pleat depth).
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Calculators
Hem Shortening Calculator
Calculate new hem position and fabric to remove when shortening.
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Letting Out Calculator
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Tapering Calculator
Calculate tapering amounts for gradual seam adjustments.
Shoulder Adjustment Calculator
Calculate shoulder width and slope adjustments.
Last updated: March 2026
All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before cutting or purchasing fabric.