The Queen’s Gambit DIY Pinafore

Tools and materials:

• Fabric
• Pattern paper
• Measuring tape
• Pins
• Marker
• Scissors
• Sewing machine

Choose the right fabric 

To recreate this beautiful pinafore, I went out and looked for a fabric that looked just like the one in the show. I found this material and bought 3 meters of it which would be more than enough for this sewing project. 

Make a circle skirt 

The first step to recreating Beth’s pinafore was the circle skirt. I folded the fabric and started drawing along the radius at the corner. 

I then measured and did the same for the length of the circle skirt. 

I then went shear and cut along both curves that I had drawn on the fabric. 

After cutting, I was so happy with how the circle skirt looked and I couldn’t wait to continue working on the piece. 

Create a bodice pattern 

I was trying to figure out how to go about making the bodice for this stunning pinafore when I remembered that I had a pattern for a vest that would work perfectly. 

I started by pinning the pattern pieces onto my mannequin. 

I then placed the pieces on the wrong side of the fabric and traced around them. 

Cut the bodice pieces 

I carefully cut out all the pieces I would need for the bodice. 

Sew the bodice 

I then started pinning the bodice together. I made sure to pin all the pieces, right sides together. 

I was so pleased with the progress I had made. Before sewing, I tried the bodice on my mannequin and on myself to make sure that it would fit. 

I moved on to sewing and I made sure to leave some of the side seam open so that I could attach a zipper later. 

After sewing the bodice, I realized that my pattern didn’t match up on the different pieces. I’m not sure if there is a trick to it or if it comes with experience but it is definitely something I want to try and fix for my next project. 

Finish the bodice 

Next, I pressed all the seams in the bodice to get a more professional finish. 

I debated what to do with the finishing for the bodice. I decided I was a little bit too lazy to line the raw edges and because I used a fabric that hardly frays, I simply hemmed the raw edges. 

Sew the pinafore 

I sewed the bodice and skirt together and I was so happy with how the pinafore was looking. I decided to raise the waistline at the back a little bit and it definitely helped give the pinafore a more fitted look. 

Finish the pinafore 

Lastly, I added in the zipper and hemmed the bottom of the skirt to give it a really nice, neat finish. 

I am obsessed with my The Queen’s Gambit inspired pinafore! Let me know what you think about this sewing DIY project in the comments!