Fitted Sheets Instructions
Fitted sheets are neater than flat sheets and stop all those “puckers” when you move around during the night. They are usually made from sheeting which is available in cotton, cotton-polyester mixtures, and brushed cotton or for that really warm feeling flannelette.
Most sheeting fabrics come in a range of colours and being very wide eliminates the need for seams.
Requirements:
Fabric of your choice.
Matching thread.
1.5 metres of narrow elastic.
Measuring for a Fitted Sheet:
• Measure the length of the mattress (L).
• Measure the width of the mattress (W).
• Measure the depth of the mattress (D).
• Amount of fabric for tuck in + hems = 8″ (20 cms) (T).
• Length of fabric = L + (2 x D) + (2 x T).
• Width of fabric = W + (2 x D) + (2 x T).
Making a Fitted Sheet:
• Cut the fabric to the required size.
• From each corner measure D + T and mark.
• Measure the same distance at right angles to these marks to form a square and mark.
• Cut out the squares leaving 0.5″ (12 mm) seam allowance.
• With the right sides together, pin and stitch the cut edges together.
• Neaten the edges of these seams by overlocking or zig zag stitch.
• With the wrong side facing, turn up a double 0.5″ (12 mm) hem all round the sheet and pin.
• Measure 8″ (20 cms) along each side from each corner and mark.
• Stitch the hem leaving a 1″ (2.5 cms) gap at each of these marks.
• Thread the elastic in through one gap, around the corner and out through the next gap.
• Pull the elastic taut to gather the corner.
• Stitch the gaps in the hem securing the ends of the elastic in the stitches.
• Trim off the excess elastic.
