BellaOnline Forums Hobbies and Crafts Costuming Dirndl Pattern

I'm looking for a simple German dirndl pattern. What a Bavarian woman would wear for everyday, not the fancy dress up ones like the Folkways pattern (which is Austrian anyway) and Burda's pattern (although I think the Burda pattern could be converted and I may go with that.) I speak German and could probably handle pattern instructions in German, but I'm still having no luck with finding a simple pattern.

Thanks,
Julie

Hi Julie.

A dirndl skirt is fairly easy to make. It is just a tube of fabric (two pieces of fabric with seams on each side) that is gathered or pleated at the waist then a waist band sewn on. Just cut two pieces of fabric the width and length you need and sew the two pieces together. A zipper could be added -- or if you have side pockets, the left pocket is open inside so you can just button the band. The opening is hidden inside the false pocket. Following is a link to a simple pattern:
Dirndl Skirt Pattern

Or - for $24.00 you can purchase a 1940's dirndl skirt pattern (if the size is right). 1940 Dirndle Pattern

Thanks Phyllis, I'm actually looking for the entire native dress costume, which is a dress made of a dirndl skirt and a fitted vest-like bodice, a short blouse (sort of the German equivalent to a dickey, it only has fabric where you see it and a little to go under the bodice), and an apron.

Julie

Is this more like what you're looking for?
Burda pattern

Julie -

That one is still a little fancy. There is yet another Burda pattern that is only in their larger pattern books that is a little better, I may end up using that.

Julie