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be folded in the middle, you would want to double the width that you want for a finished ruffle. For example, if you want a three inch finished ruffle, you would create a six inch wide pattern piece.

If you are sewing the ruffle to a garment that will be created using a commercial sewing pattern, I would suggest measuring the pattern piece prior to sewing construction. For example, measure the length of a skirt pattern by placing the tape measure 5/8 inches from the top of the skirt pattern, and turn up the hem allowance (usually 1-1/4 inches to two inches) so that you will get an accurate measurement of the finished length of the skirt. Then decide how long you want the skirt with the ruffle added to be, and start doing the math to get the accurate measurement, making sure to add the seam allowance that will be used when sewing the ruffle to the garment. Either pin or tape up the hem allowance on the pattern before adding the ruffle. If you're comfortable, you could also cut off the hem allowance and add the ruffle measurement. Once again, this process will probably take some practice so making a muslin would be a wise choice.

Once the fashion fabric has been cut out, and the ruffle has been created, gather it up to fit the hem area of the garment, and placing right sides together, match raw edges, and sew around the hem at the seam allowance you have chosen to use.

Finishing the raw edges of the seam where the main body of the garment and the ruffle have been joined will result in a more professional looking garment. Serge finishing this seam is very easy and will look nice. Make sure to press the garment well during sewing construction, and also after the garment has been finished because this will result in a more professional looking garment.

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